Lactiplantibacillus plantarum
Synopsis of lactiplantibacillus plantarum
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum is a versatile, gram-positive, rod-shaped lactic acid bacterium found in a variety of fermented foods and in the human gastrointestinal tract. It was formerly classified under the genus Lactobacillus, but taxonomic revisions in 2020 placed it under the genus Lactiplantibacillus. This probiotic species is known for its robust ability to survive acidic environments, adhere to intestinal walls, and modulate gut microbiota. It ferments sugars into lactic acid, which helps inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria and contributes to maintaining intestinal pH balance.
Modern use of L. plantarum focuses on its probiotic benefits, including support for digestive health, immune modulation, antimicrobial effects, and potentially reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), eczema, or food allergies. It is commonly found in supplements, yogurts, sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, and sourdough starters. Its ability to produce bioactive compounds such as bacteriocins, exopolysaccharides, and antioxidants has made it a subject of interest in both food science and functional medicine. It is also being explored for its role in reducing cholesterol, supporting oral health, and enhancing skin barrier functions.
Historical Use:
Although the specific microorganism Lactiplantibacillus plantarum wasn’t identified until the development of microbiology in the 20th century, its effects have been utilized for centuries through the traditional fermentation of food. Ancient cultures across Europe, Asia, and Africa practiced fermentation as a method of food preservation and enhancement, unknowingly cultivating beneficial bacteria like L. plantarum. Foods like sauerkraut (Germany), kimchi (Korea), and olives (Mediterranean) are traditional staples that naturally harbor this strain. These fermented products were valued not only for their flavor and shelf stability but also for their supposed health-promoting properties.
In historical medicine, especially in regions with rich fermentation traditions, these foods were often prescribed for digestive troubles, general vitality, and as tonics after illness. In Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, while bacteria were not yet identified, fermented foods and drinks were praised for aiding digestion and balancing the body’s internal environment (often framed as balancing "heat" or "wind").
The recognition of L. plantarum as a specific health-promoting microbe began in earnest in the mid-20th century as the field of probiotics evolved. Today, it is one of the most extensively studied probiotic strains and is included in many multi-strain formulations designed to support gut health, immunity, and systemic wellness.
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Scientific)
Acid Indigestion (Scientific)
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Scientific)
Antibiotics (side effects of) (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Bladder Infection (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Colds (general) (Scientific)
Colitis (Scientific)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Crohn's Disease (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Diverticulitis (Scientific)
Eczema (Scientific)
Fatigue (Scientific)
Gastritis (Scientific)
Gingivitis (Scientific)
Indigestion (Scientific)
Infection (bacterial) (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Lactose Intolerance (Scientific)
Leaky Gut Syndrome (Scientific)
Oral Surgery (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Scientific)
Rhinitis (Scientific)
Rhinitis, Allergic (Scientific)
Skin (infections) (Scientific)
Stress (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
Urinary Tract Infections (Scientific)
Wounds and Sores (Scientific)
lactiplantibacillus plantarum is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Peyer’s patches (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
Products containing lactiplantibacillus plantarum
Nature's Sunshine AIVIA Performance Probiotic
Nature's Sunshine Eleven Elevated (NutriBiome)
Nature's Sunshine Probiotic Eleven
Nature's Sunshine Sunshine Heroes Probiotic Power
