Bee pollen, also known as buckwheat pollen, pine pollen or pu huang is a medicinal natural supplement produced by bees. Some studies support the use of bee pollen to improve symptoms of allergies, particularly seasonal allergies; however, more research is needed to fully confirm this benefit. If you suffer from allergies and consider taking bee pollen, you should first talk to your health care provider.
About Bee Pollen
Pollen is the main dietary source from bees. Bees collect the pollen from various flowers, mix them with honey, nectar and some enzymes forming beebread. Bee pollen is rich in various nutrients and 1 to 2 teaspoons equals a serving of vegetables, according to American Apitherapy Society. It contains vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids such as alpha-linolenic and linolenic acids. Bee pollen is also rich in the plant compounds isoflavones and lignans that are considered some of the key active ingredients of this product, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Research
Bee pollen is highly recommended for allergy sufferers. Fermented bee pollen has more health benefits than regular bee pollen, according to Flora Health. The American Apitherapy Society further explains that bee pollen helps individuals with seasonal allergies and pollen sensitivities because research found that bee pollen has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and immune-boosting qualities.
In a study published in September 2008 issue of "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" a research team led by KC. Medeiros discovered that myricetin, a natural compound of bee pollen is one of the main substances that possesses anti-allergic effects. The study involved animal subjects and an extract of myricetin from bee pollen significantly reduced markers of inflammation and allergy in the participants of the study.
Dosage
For general health the recommended dosage is 400 to 500 mg up to three times a day. A health care provider may recommend higher dosage of bee pollen, based on the severity of your symptoms and any other medical condition you have associated with allergies.
Drug Interactions and Adverse Reactions
There are no known drug interactions. Do not use bee pollen if you are allergic to bee stings, ragweed or to chrysanthemum because you may develop itchiness, headaches, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea and even anaphylaxis, warns Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
Considerations
Consult a qualified practitioner to find out optimal dosage of bee pollen and other natural supplements than may help your condition. Keep in mind that bee pollen does not replace any anti-allergy drugs and is not approved by US Food and Drug Administration to treat allergies.
