Effect of nanoemulsion loading finger citron (Citrus medica L. var. Sarcodactylis) essential oil on human gut microbiota

Finger citron essential oil (FCEO) is a potential resource in pharmaceutical and food industries. FCEO encapsulated by nanoemulsion can overcome its insoluble and unstable disadvantages, and prolong its digestion in the colon. This study investigated the effects of FCEO on human gut microbiota by in vitro fermentation. The results showed supplementation with low concentration of FCEO nanoemulsion significantly increased the production of acetate, CO2 and H-2 as end products in basal medium containing starch as sole carbon source, while the high concentration of FCEO significantly inhibited the gas production. In addition, FCEO nanoemulsion promoted the degradation of starch. Furthermore, FCEO nanoemulsion modified gut microbiota community after 24 h anaerobic incubation that promoted the growth of Lactobacillus, Lactococcus and the other probiotic bacteria, while suppressing the pathogenic Bilophila genus. This study indicated the dietary FCEO could be considered as a potential candidate in the food preservation application.

Automated summary

Finger citron essential oil (FCEO) encapsulated by nanoemulsion can improve its digestion in the colon and its effects on human gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and suppressing the growth of harmful bacteria. Therefore, FCEO may have potential applications in food preservation.