Advanced Probiotic By Purium Overview & Drug Interactions

Chicory root is the root of the chicory plant, which is native to Europe and Asia. It is a perennial plant that belongs to the daisy family and has blue, purple, or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. Chicory root is often used as a coffee substitute and in traditional medicine. Chicory root is purported to have diuretic, laxative, and digestive properties and has been traditionally used to treat constipation, indigestion, and liver and gallbladder disorders. Chicory root is also thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and has been used to improve skin health and treat skin conditions such as acne and eczema. Chicory root is a source of inulin (not to be confused with insulin), a type of soluble fiber that is used as a sweetener and to improve digestive health.

Bacillus coagulans, also known as Weizmannia coagulans or Lactobacillus sporogenes, is a spore-forming, lactic acid-producing, Gram-positive bacterium used as a probiotic. Bacillus coagulans has shown benefits for constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Its spores are stable in stomach acid and reach the small intestine, where they germinate and multiply, with around 85% reaching their destination. The bacterium is excreted via feces, with spores detectable up to 7 days post-administration. Mechanistically, Bacillus coagulans exhibits antibacterial effects through the production of coagulin, lactic acid, and lactosporin, reducing pathogenic bacteria colonization. It also demonstrates antifungal properties and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing the growth of pathogenic bacteria and decreasing the production of lipopolysaccharides. Bacillus coagulans may stimulate immune response, as evidenced by increased CD4+ T cells in adults with HIV-1 infection and modulation of inflammatory cytokines in schoolchildren. These properties categorize Bacillus coagulans as an immunomodulator, immunostimulant, and probiotic, with potential therapeutic applications in promoting digestive health and immune function.