Research synthesisModerate evidenceModerate effect8 studies · 8 beneficial · 0 neutral · 0 harmful
Across 8 studies, all reported beneficial effects of Lactobacillus salivarius UCC118 on reducing inflammation, with effect sizes ranging from small to moderate. The strongest evidence comes from a meta-analysis (n=896) showing a significant reduction in C-reactive protein (mean difference -1.93 dL) and an RCT in multiple sclerosis patients demonstrating significant decreases in CRP, TNF-α, and IFN-γ. Most studies were reviews or animal/in vitro experiments; the two highest-quality studies (a review/meta-analysis and an RCT) both showed significant anti-inflammatory effects, with moderate effect sizes.
- Studied populations: women with gestational diabetes mellitus; patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis; cancer patients (postoperative inflammation, colon cancer models); individuals with obesity or inflammatory bowel disease
Caveats: Available evidence is overwhelmingly positive — clinical literature in this area is subject to publication bias (null-result studies are less likely to be published or indexed). The evidence base remains small (8 studies) and the majority are reviews or preclinical studies; only one RCT specifically tested L. salivarius UCC118 for inflammation. Doses and forms were not consistently reported, limiting dose-response conclusions.
Generated May 12, 2026