Effects of Ricinoleic Acid (Castor Oil) on Gut Permeability in Healthy Participants: Provocative Test for Treatments Aimed at Restoring Barrier Function.

INTRODUCTION

Altered intestinal permeability (IP) is implicated in multiple gastrointestinal and systemic disease conditions; an experimental model of perturbed IP in healthy subjects is needed. Traditional approaches to perturbing IP include use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

METHODS

We conducted a single-center, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot study of dose-related effects of castor oil (CO) (and its ingredient ricinoleic acid) at 750, 1,500, or 3,000 mg daily doses on IP. Permeability was assessed using validated 13 C-mannitol and lactulose urine excretion at 0-2, 8-24, and 0-24 hours after oral administration.

RESULTS

Permeability analysis across all groups demonstrated significant difference among the groups for 0-2 hours 13 C-mannitol, 0-24 hours 13 C-mannitol, and borderline significant difference for 2-8 hours 13 C-mannitol ( P = 0.060) and 0-24 hours lactulose ( P = 0.056). Direct comparison of 3,000 mg CO vs placebo ( t test) demonstrated higher excretion of 13 C-mannitol and lactulose at 0-2, and 0-24 hours, and lactulose at 2-8 hours.

DISCUSSION

CO may perturb small intestinal and colonic permeability in healthy adults.