Alkaloid-rich Amomum tsao-ko extract modulates gut microbial composition in constipated mice.

Amomum tsaoko is an important medicinal herb, and the aqueous extract of its dried fruit is rich in alkaloids and has a significant laxative effect. Alkaloid-rich Amomum tsao-ko extract (ATA) also significantly modulated the structure and composition of the gut microbial community in constipated mice. The results of correlation analysis suggested that ATA may promote intestinal microecological balance by regulating key flora such as Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, norank_o_Clostridia_vadinBB60_group. In summary, ATA may alleviate loperamide-induced functional constipation by modulating the intestinal microecosystem. Grasshopper as well as grasshopper alkaloids have great application prospects in the development of laxative health food and pharmaceuticals.