Codonopsis pilosula polysaccharides in intestinal flora and intestinal homeostasis: A review

Codonopsis pilosula polysaccharides (CPPs), the main bioactive molecules in the traditional Chinese herbal medicine Codonopsis pilosula, have many functions, including regulation of the intestinal flora. The intestinal flora is essential for human health. And its disorders can increase intestinal mucosal permeability, disrupt intestinal barrier function, and trigger systemic inflammatory responses, all of which are closely correlated with the onset and progression of various diseases. Several studies have reported the role of CPPs in maintaining intestinal homeostasis and treating intestinal diseases. This may be mediated by modulating the intestinal flora and increasing the levels of short-chain fatty acids, secondary bile acids, and tryptophan metabolites. Hence, this review systematically examines the effects of CPPs on the intestinal flora and its metabolites, focusing on the role and mechanisms of CPPs in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. This review serves as a scientific foundation for exploring the potential value of CPPs as novel prebiotics in the prevention and treatment of intestinal diseases.