Tag: Psychobiotic

Over 90% of the body's serotonin is produced in the gut, a fact that highlights the deep connection between the digestive system and the brain. This intricate link, known as the gut-brain axis, explains why the beneficial bacteria we consume can influence more than just digestion, giving rise to the distinct categories of probiotics and psychobiotics.

Research indicates that certain psychobiotic strains, such as *Lactobacillus plantarum* PS128, can have profound effects on the central nervous system by modulating the gut-brain axis. This probiotic, isolated from fermented Taiwanese vegetables, has demonstrated potential therapeutic benefits for a range of conditions, from autism and Parkinson's disease to general stress and anxiety in humans.

Originating from a traditional fermented food, the psychobiotic strain *plantarum* PS128 was first isolated from Taiwanese fermented mustard greens, known as fu-tsai. This discovery highlights the rich biodiversity found in traditional dietary practices.

In 2007, a specific probiotic strain known as *Lactobacillus plantarum* PS128 was discovered by researchers at National Yang-Ming University in Taiwan after screening nearly a thousand types of lactobacilli. This particular strain's source is a traditional Taiwanese fermented food called fu-tsai.