The rhizomes of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz improve gastrointestinal health and pregnancy outcomes in pregnant mice via modulating intestinal barrier and water-fluid metabolism

Baizhu (BZ) is the dried rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz (Compositae), which invigorates the spleen, improves vital energy, stabilizes the fetus, and is widely used for treating spleen deficiency syndrome. However, the impact of BZ on gastrointestinal function during pregnancy remains unexplored.