Fresh raw bee pollen is the male seed of a flower that has been collected by bees and mixed with the bees digestive enzymes. The use of bee pollen has been documented for thousands of years, according to the Bible and ancient Chinese and Egyptian manuscripts. It has long been praised by natural and traditional healers alike and has recently been scientifically proven to have significant positive effects on the body.
Anti-Inflammatory
Bee pollen has potent anti-inflammatory properties, according to BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The researchers believe that this may be due to some of the flavonoids present in the pollen, though evidence suggests that other unknown substances may also be involved. In the conclusion of the study, bee pollen was recommended as a dietary supplement and as a functional food.
Immunity Booster
Bee pollen contains many nutrients that are key to strengthening the immune system, including vitamins B, C,D, E and beta-carotene, calcium, magnesium, selenium, nucleic acids, lecithin, cysteine, proteins and beneficial fats. The antioxidants in bee pollen fight free radicals, which damage DNA. Researchers found that bee pollen has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties and that it strengthens the immune systems of mice, even to the point of preventing cancerous tumors.
Anti-Allergic Effect
Bee pollen should not be mistaken for the pollen that tends to contribute to allergies during springtime. Bee pollen is too heavy to float in the air and is collected directly from the legs of the bees. It is reported to have anti-allergic effects. Researchers found that bee pollen inhibits several factors that set-off the allergic response and even helps to prevent anaphylactic shock. It is also believed that the quercetin in bee pollen inhibits the release of histamine, which is a major factor in allergic reactions.
Warning
If you're allergic to bees, consult a physician before taking bee pollen. A few people have had moderate to severe allergic reactions to bee pollen. Eating bee pollen that's locally cultivated may confer greater benefit than bee pollen from other locations.
References
- "BMC Complementary Medicine"; Anti-inflammatory Effect of Bee Pollen...; Hiroe Maruyama, et. al.; June 23, 2010
- USDA National Agricultural Library; Antioxidant Activity of Sonoran Desert Bee Pollen; Blaise W. LeBlanc et. al.; August 15, 2009
- Beepollen.info: About Bee Pollen
- "Journal of Ethnopharmacology"; Anti-allergic Effect of Bee Pollen...; K.C.P. Medeiros, et. al.; September 2, 2008
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