Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Synopsis of lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a highly adaptable and clinically important probiotic species widely recognized for its broad range of health benefits across gastrointestinal, immune, and urogenital systems. It is naturally present in the human gut and vaginal microbiome and is frequently isolated from fermented dairy products and human breast milk. One of its most studied strains—L. rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103)—was identified in 1985 and remains one of the best-documented probiotics in scientific literature.
L. rhamnosus is prized for its ability to survive stomach acid and bile, adhere to the intestinal lining, and modulate both local and systemic immune responses. Clinical uses include the prevention and treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, rotavirus infections in children, traveler’s diarrhea, and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It also plays a role in reducing eczema and atopic dermatitis in infants, alleviating vaginal infections, and supporting urinary tract health.
Beyond gut support, L. rhamnosus shows promise in regulating mood and stress through the gut-brain axis, making it a candidate for emerging psychobiotic applications. Its production of bioactive substances like bacteriocins and its immune-balancing properties add to its versatility in both food and supplement forms.
Historical Use:
Although Lactobacillus rhamnosus itself was only identified and named in the 20th century, its benefits were unknowingly utilized for centuries through the use of fermented foods. Traditional diets across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia featured cultured milk, yogurt, and fermented grains, which often fostered beneficial microbes like L. rhamnosus. These foods were prized for promoting digestion, strengthening resilience after illness, and calming digestive upset.
In folk medicine, fermented milk was often administered to children and convalescents for its soothing effects on the gut. While no one at the time could have identified the bacterial strains at work, this practice reflected a strong intuitive understanding of what we now recognize as probiotic benefit.
The isolation of L. rhamnosus GG by Sherwood Gorbach and Barry Goldin in 1985 marked a turning point in probiotic science, as it became one of the first strains to be thoroughly studied and patented for therapeutic use. Since then, it has become a foundational strain in probiotic supplements, children's health products, and women's health formulas—offering scientific validation for what traditional food practices have long supported: that beneficial microbes like L. rhamnosus are powerful allies in maintaining whole-body wellness.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus is used for these health conditions
Acne (Scientific)
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Scientific)
Antibiotics (side effects of) (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Anxiety Disorders (Scientific)
Colic (children) (Scientific)
Colitis (Scientific)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Scientific)
Diverticulitis (Scientific)
Eczema (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Lactose Intolerance (Scientific)
Leaky Gut Syndrome (Scientific)
Oral Surgery (Scientific)
Psoriasis (Scientific)
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (Scientific)
Thrush (Scientific)
Urinary Tract Infections (Scientific)
Vaginitis (Scientific)
lactobacillus rhamnosus is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Scientific)
Female Reproductive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Peyer’s patches (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
Vagina (Scientific)
