The Use of Human-Strain Probiotics as a Dietary Supplement from Islamic Perspective

Abstract

The use of probiotics seems to be well known for its health benefits. It improves the digestive system, promote weight loss, prevents or treats diarrhea caused by infections, improves systems of irritable bowel syndrome, boosts immune system, prevention or treatment of arterial hypertension, reduces inflammation and allergies. However, there are some issues pertaining to some probiotic sources derived from human strains. This study aims to discuss the definition of probiotics, the history, and the content or source of those probiotics. Next, it formed a proposed guidelines to its use according to medicine and Islamic perspective. The methodology of this study uses qualitative methods by collecting data of probiotic-related information from authentic journal articles and newspapers, then analyzed through a descriptive analysis approach based on the method of fiqh, Maqasid al-Shariah and the concept of istihalah. The results of this research show the importance of the use of probiotics for human’s well-being and to be declared as Shariah-compliant dietary supplement.