Bacillus indicus

ProbioticBacillus

What is it

Bacillus indicus (HU36) is a spore-forming probiotic bacterium discovered in human gut samples in India and notable for producing carotenoid pigments including beta-carotene, lycopene, and astaxanthin.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Gut and immune support (as part of multi-spore blends)

Limited Evidence

Multi-strain spore probiotic products including B. indicus have shown modest effects on gastrointestinal symptoms and inflammation markers in small trials. Effects attributable to B. indicus alone are not well characterized.

How it works

B. indicus HU36 spores survive stomach acid and germinate in the small intestine, producing carotenoids that may contribute to local antioxidant activity. The strain is included in multi-spore probiotic products marketed for gut and immune support.

Dosage

Typical multi-strain spore probiotic products supply 2-4 billion CFU per serving with B. indicus as one component. Standalone dosing is not widely studied.

When and how to take it

Can be taken with or without food. Consistent daily intake supports steady gut presence.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Spore probiotic capsule

Common format as part of multi-strain blends like MegaSporeBiotic.

Spores resist stomach acid; germinate in small intestine

Safety

Spore-forming Bacillus probiotics are generally well tolerated in healthy adults. Bloating and mild gastrointestinal symptoms may occur, especially in the first week.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in severe immunocompromise, central venous catheter use, and short bowel syndrome unless directed by a clinician. Caution in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited specific data.

Interactions

No significant drug interactions established.

Frequently asked questions

Why are spore probiotics different?⌄

Spore-formers like Bacillus species survive stomach acid and heat better than vegetative probiotics like Lactobacillus, improving delivery to the gut.

Is B. indicus safe?⌄

Generally safe in healthy adults. Avoid in severe immunocompromise or after major gut surgery.

References

Bacillus indicus on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Bacillus indicus on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Bacillus indicus (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Bacillus indicus with Pilora

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.