Honey is a well-known byproduct of bees. But bees provide another healthful substance as well -- bee pollen. Bee pollen is the pollen collected by bees as they travel from flower to flower to get nectar for honey-making. The pollen is stored in special sacs on the bees' back legs. Beekeepers can collect this pollen, which is then used for nutritional supplements. These supplements are used for a variety of health issues, including allergies.
Components
Bee pollen is highly nutritious. According to the North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension, bee pollen contains up to 100 vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and other beneficial substances. While its specific makeup varies according to region, season and plant type, bee pollen is generally 30 percent protein, 55 percent carbohydrates, 1 or 2 percent fat and 3 to 4 percent vitamins and minerals.
Uses
Bee pollen is touted as a miracle remedy that can improve sports performance, increase energy, help with weight loss and fight the effects of aging. It is even purported to improve age-related memory loss. But according to the New York University Langone Medical Center, scientific evidence for these claims is lacking. One particularly controversial use for bee pollen is as a treatment for hay fever and other allergies.
Effect on Allergies
Bee pollen is often consumed to prevent hay fever. While this may be helpful for some people, bee pollen can have adverse effects. It's possible to have an allergy to the bee pollen itself -- sometimes a severe one, in which case you should avoid bee pollen and try other allergy treatments instead.
Considerations
If you suffer from allergies and are considering bee pollen as an allergy treatment, consult your physician to discuss this strategy first. Because severe bee or bee pollen allergies can cause potentially deadly anaphylactic reactions, it's crucial to rule out a pollen allergy before using bee pollen as a health remedy. If bee pollen seems to be an appropriate supplement for you, seek your doctor's recommendation regarding proper dosage and follow all medical advice.
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