Lactobacillus brevis: Probiotic With HSV2 Anti-Viral Activity

Lactobacillus brevis is a probiotic with some strains having unusual herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV2) anti-virus capabilities as well as other beneficial, probiotic capabilities.

Like other Lactobacillus, it is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium which cannot move about on its own and does not form spores. It is an obligate heterofermentative bacterium.

Is Lactobacillus brevis Safe?

As a species, L. brevis  is frequently found on plant material, in the human gastrointestinal tract, and is often in fermented foods and feed such as milk, sourdoughs, cheeses, sauerkraut, olives and silage. It is often isolated from the spoilage microbiota in wine and beer fermentations.

Lactobacillus, as a whole, has European QPS (Qualified Presumption of Safety) list status. To my knowledge, no serious infections have been reported to be caused by L. brevisprobiotics.

What Does Research Show about Lactobacillus brevis?

  • It is found in the human vagina and GI tract.
  • It adheres to human cells in vitro.
  • Some strains in this species are able to survive the gastrointestinal tract while others are not.
  • It generally produces lactic acid, acetic acid, ethanol and carbon dioxide from glucose, with some strains producing hydrogen peroxide.
  • It is able to manufacture the B vitamins it needs.
  • One strain inhibited Herpes simplex virus 2 in vitro.
  • Got fatty liver? Researchers found that oral heat-killed L. brevis SBC8803 in mice fed an ethanol-containing diet reduced the expression of TNF-alpha (an inflammatory cytokine) and of a substance which causes the liver to make triglycerides. The researchers did not know the exact mechanisms involved but speculated that L. brevis SBC8803 inhibited the migration of endotoxins from the intestines to the liver by decreasing leaky gut. Less triglycerides made by the liver means lower fat in the liver. Imagine what the live bacterium might have done!

I will be adding to this list of research as time permits.

Where Can You Find Lactobacillus brevis?

This probiotic microbe is available to the public in products such as:

Always read ingredients prior to purchasing or taking any supplement!

Mercola Complete Probiotics

The link takes you to my review of the product.


Garden of Life Raw Probiotics Women

The link takes you to my review of the product.



Garden of Life Primal Defense HSO Formula.

The link takes you to my review of the product.


Dr. Ohhira OPriginal
Dr. Ohhira's Essential Probiotics, Original and Professional Strengths from

my online dispensary, along with other quality products.


Should YOU Be Taking L. brevis?

L. brevis is not found widespread in probiotic supplements. It has special properties which can be very helpful in certain circumstances. I can help you decide if a strain of this species can benefit you.


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