Bellidifolin, a constituent from edible Mongolic Liver Tea (Swertia diluta), promotes lipid metabolism by regulating intestinal microbiota and bile acid metabolism in mice during high fat diet-induced obesity

Metabolic disorders like obesity and dyslipidemia are largely driven by high-fat diets (HFD), often with limited efficacy from current dietary interventions. This study investigates Swertia diluta , an edible potherb, for its potential hepatic and metabolic benefits. Using HPLC-MS/MS, 25 xanthone compounds were identified, with network pharmacology analysis indicating their relevance to lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis. Notably, bellidifolin (BEL) was isolated from this plant and studied in 12-week HFD-induced obesity model (HFD feeding for 12 weeks; BEL intervention from weeks 9–12), demonstrating significant improvements in lipid profiles and body weight reduction in male C57BL/6J mice. BEL also altered gut microbiota by reducing Firmicutes , Lactobacillaceae , and Clostridiaceae abundance. Additionally, BEL enhanced bile acid biosynthesis and excretion, further improving lipid metabolism. These findings suggest BEL from Swertia diluta as a promising natural agent for weight management and enhanced lipid metabolism through gut microbiota and bile acid modulation in HFD conditions.