Research during the last few decades has proven that the intestine is not just a one-way highway to elimination. It contains a rich supply of blood vessels that actively exchange substances, and mucous membranes that harbor vast communities of functional bacteria. A proper balance of microbiota in the gut can support healthy immune function and help protect against disorders as diverse as inflammatory bowel disease, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, periodontal disease, acne, hypertension [Konturek et al 2011], toxic metal overload [Upreti et al 2004], and even affect central nervous system function and psychological mood [Hawrelak and Meyers 2004; Sekirov et al 2010; Daliri and Lee 2015]. The intestine lubricates and facilitates passage of stool, and can also absorb and deliver nutrients, enzymes, medicines, and other herbal substances to and from the circulatory system. In some cases, a substance can be more efficiently absorbed or utilized via targeted rectal delivery than when taken orally, because it bypasses digestion by the strong acids, enzymes, and bile in the stomach, small intestines, and liver [Choonara 1987; Forrest et al 1990; van Hoogdalem et al 1991; Fedorak 2014; Amit-Romach et al 2015]. There are also times when oral administration of probiotics may not be possible, for instance, if a patient is incapable of swallowing because they are nauseous, unconscious, or uncooperative–as in the case of a small child.

Numerous studies have examined the complex mechanisms by which the beneficial effects of probiotics occur. Bacteria help create a protective lining on the walls of the intestine by stimulating the production of mucus and regulating adherence by certain bacteria [Bermudez-Brito et al 2012]. Dobson et al 2012 reviewed the role of antimicrobial peptides, or bacteriocins, produced by bacteria in establishing competitive exclusion of pathogenic strains. Bai et al 2006 showed that bacteria can exert an anti-inflammatory effect on inflamed tissues of ulcerative colitis by inhibiting NF-kappaB activation and inflammatory cytokine secretion. Some bacteria seem to be able to communicate with the host and modulate key signaling pathways to enhance or suppress certain types of reactions [Bermudez-Brito et al 2012]. In vitro experiments with Lactobacillus rhamnosus showed it can inhibit cytokine-induced apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells [Yan and Polk 2002]. Lactobacillus paracasei was effective against Staphalococcus aureus injury to the intestinal mucosa of rabbits [Bendali et al 2011].

Bravo Europe Probiotic Suppositories contain a combination of high quality, organic, whole pasteurized cow’s milk and colostrum, fermented with a proprietary blend of probiotic bacteria made in Switzerland. The bacterial strains are commonly used in Europe and the US for making yogurt and kefir. Colostrum is the first milk produced after giving birth, and is especially important for development of the infant immune system, because it is rich in immunoglobulins, antibodies, antimicrobial peptides, growth factors, and other bioactive molecules [Khan et al 2002]. Some studies suggest that fermented milks containing Bifidobacterium strains may be able to inhibit colonic carcinogenesis [Picard et al 2005]. Experiments with dogs fed bovine colostrum showed an increase in the diversity and stability of gut microbiota, as well as immune response [Satyaraj et al 2013]. The stability, healing properties, and synergistic bioactivity of whole, naturally derived colostrum, offers potential advantages over isolated extracts [Khan et al 2002].

The potent probiotics and healthful milk products are molded into sleek, convenient suppositories with creamy cocoa butter. BioPure’s cocoa butter is 100% organic, undeodorized, unbleached, and naturally contains vitamins, minerals, and bioflavonoids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties [Katz et al 2011]. Cocoa butter has been used for centuries to soothe and moisturize the skin, help in the healing of wounds, irritations, and burns [Lamuela-Raventós 2005], and to treat vaginal, respiratory, and bowel disorders [Dillinger et al 2000]. It is stable and solid at room temperature, but melts easily in the body.