Broad Assessment of Health Influences From Combined Probiotic Blends and Assorted Plant Extracts in Adult Populations

Abstract

Background: Growing interest in natural, non-pharmaceutical approaches to health has led to increased use of supplements combining probiotics with plant extracts. These formulations are often marketed for general wellness, yet scientific evaluation of their nonspecific health effects in healthy adults remains limited. Objective: To explore how daily supplementation with combined probiotic blends and assorted plant extracts may be associated with nonspecific health improvements in a healthy adult population. Methods: This descriptive, non-controlled study was conducted over four months in South Punjab, enrolling 100 healthy adults aged 25–55. Participants consumed a daily capsule containing a multi-strain probiotic and standardized plant extract blend. Self-reported health indicators were measured at baseline, 8 weeks, and 16 weeks using validated tools: WHO-5 Well-Being Index, Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS), and visual analog scales (VAS) for energy levels and sleep quality. Paired t-tests and repeated measures ANOVA were used for statistical analysis (p < 0.05). Results: Ninety-two participants completed the study. WHO-5 scores increased significantly from 58.4 ±12.3 at baseline to 72.5 ±9.4 at 16 weeks (p < 0.001), reflecting improved psychological well-being. GSRS scores decreased from 2.9 ±0.6 to 1.7 ±0.4 (p < 0.001), indicating reduced gastrointestinal discomfort. Energy levels rose from 5.1 ±1.2 to 7.4 ±0.9, and sleep quality improved from 5.4 ±1.3 to 7.6 ±1.0 by study end. No adverse effects were reported. Conclusion: Combined supplementation with probiotics and plant extracts may support nonspecific health improvements in healthy adults. These findings provide preliminary support for multi-ingredient natural products as potential contributors to general wellness.