We all know the appendix is an odd organ, seemingly completely unnecessary. According to recent research, however, what purpose might the appendix serve?

That's right - the theory is that the appendix stores "good" bacteria that the body might need in the event something happens, like a severe case of diarrhea or some other shock to the body's cache of bacteria. This is why it's never really used during one's lifetime - it's like a fire extinguisher that sits under your kitchen sink.

Asked by Tom Cohen · Last updated 5 years ago · 20.2K views