A variety of claims exist regarding how bee pollen affects the body. Still, there is little scientific evidence to back up these claims. Bee pollen is sold as a nutritional supplement and used in a variety of Chinese herbal formulas. Similar to honey, bees use pollen as food for the hive. Bee pollen is sold under the names buckwheat, maize and pine pollen, as well puhuang and sonfuuan. Consult your health care professional before administering bee pollen. Even a small amount may cause allergic reactions.
Energy
A major claim about bee pollen is the energizing and anti-fatigue effects the supplement should produce. According to Drugs.com, the claims of increased athletic performance and energy-boosting abilities have not been backed up with scientific evidence. Other sources such as NYU Langone Medical Center and MotherNature.com also cite the lack of scientific evidence for bee pollen's therapeutic effects.
Allergies
According to MotherNature.com, some patients take small doses of bee pollen to reduce pollen allergies. In theory, small amounts allow the body to adjust to pollen inhaled through the air and create defense mechanisms. Again, however, more evidence is needed to back up this claim. Some people who have allergies and are asthmatic, or who just have allergies, may react poorly to taking even the smallest amount of bee pollen.
Additional Benefits
Despite the lack of medical evidence supporting the use of bee pollen, many people continue to take the nutritional supplement. Conditions such as prostatitis, allergies, lower cholesterol, decreased appetite and other ailments may be affected by bee pollen. The supplement may also decrease respiratory illnesses and lessen the incidence of nausea and vomiting.
Warning
According to Brigham and Women's Hospital, many medical doctors do not support the use of bee pollen due to the associated medical dangers. A rare side effect from taking the supplement is the danger of anaphylactic shock. Your body will go into respiratory failure. The severe reaction causes your throat to tighten and constrict. Additional, less critical side effects include wheezing, coughing, watery eyes, fatigue and nausea. If you are suffering from any of these conditions it is critical to seek treatment immediately. Speak to a medical doctor before taking bee pollen. Alternative natural treatments may be available with less negative side effects.
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