Acidophilus, scientifically known as Lactobacillus acidophilus, is medicinally used for its health benefits. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) notes that acidophilus is the most commonly utilized probiotic, a term for live microorganisms that can be beneficial to a host. Acidophilus can be taken to prevent or protect against harmful bacteria. Acidophilus can be obtained commercially as a tablet, capsule, liquid and vaginal or anal suppository, as well as from some yogurt and milk.
Vaginal Infection Benefits
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) says that Lactobacillus acidophilus suppositories are an effective treatment for bacterial vaginosis, which is caused by an imbalance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the vagina. Lactobacillus acidophilus can also help restore that delicate balance when it is eaten in yogurt. In fact, a systematic review published in a 2003 edition of the journal "Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey" found that when women were treated with Lactobacillus via capsules or yogurt, yeast vaginitis and bacterial vaginosis showed improvement with limited adverse effects.
Gastrointestinal Benefits
Despite the probiotic's reputation for prevention and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, scientific evidence is varied on the efficacy of probiotic acidophilus for treatment of gastrointestinal conditions. UMMC notes that positive research has been conducted in regard to the regular use of probiotics (not just acidophilus) as a protective mechanism, defending against gastrointestinal infections in adults. More studies are needed, however, to support this claim.
Additional Benefits
Probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus has been touted as a beneficial treatment for many other health conditions. Despite introductory and mixed evidence, a study published in a 2007 edition of the journal "Digestive Diseases and Sciences" found that after 4 weeks of Lactobacillus acidophilus treatment, participants with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) experienced a reduction in abdominal pain or discomfort compared to baseline. Another study reported in 2007 in "The Canadian Journal of Gasteroenterology" found Lactobacillus acidophilus-enhanced milk was a safe and effective preventative measure against diarrhea associated with antibiotics. Although research is varied, UMMC reports that acidophilus is used to treat a variety of conditions ranging from IBS and chronic constipation to lactose intolerance and high cholesterol.
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