Bee pollen is collected during the process of bee's collecting nectar. Pollen is stored on the hind legs of the insect and removed when reentering the hive. According to New York University Langone Medical Center, bee pollen contains large amounts of protein and carbohydrates, as well as trace amounts of vitamins and minerals. A variety of claims exist regarding digesting bee pollen to cure allergies. Before taking bee pollen, it is critical to consult with a medical doctor and be well informed about the benefits and disadvantages of pollen.
Claims
According to Langone Medical Center, some people claim that eating bee pollen builds up your body's resistance against the pollen itself. Many people who are allergic to pollen suffer from hay fever, which causes itchy and watery eyes, runny nose and congestion. Local pollen is suggested when fighting allergies.
Evidence
Little to no scientific evidence exists supporting the use of bee pollen to cure allergies. Despite the lack of scientific evidence, many people continue to consume small amounts of pollen granules to desensitize their body's system to seasonal pollen allergies. The use of honey and bee pollen to cure illness dates back thousands of years. According to Elson Haas, M.D., in "Staying Healthy with Nutrition" bee pollen is considered one of the first health supplements.
Warnings
When taking any bee products, you increase your risk of suffering from an allergic reaction. According to "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods" by Michael Murray, the most common side effect of honey, pollen and other bee related items are allergic reactions. The reaction may only be mild, such as a stomachache, but more serious situations may occur. Shortness of breath, respiratory distress, hives and even anaphylaxis has occurred in some people consuming pollen. In rare cases, the allergic reaction may be so extreme, death may result. If you do decide to consume bee pollen, only purchase pollen from a reputable local beekeeper, and choose pollen that is pesticide-free.
Additional Claims
Energy and athletic endurance are two additional uses for bee pollen, yet similar to being a cure for allergies, more evidence is needed. Langone Medical Center states some athletes claim to increase stamina and endurance after taking bee pollen. Additional unsubstantiated uses for bee pollen include memory, cancer prevention, asthma and even alcoholism, reports the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.
References
- "Staying Healthy with Nutrition"; Elson Haas; 2006
- "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods"; Michael Murray; 2005
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Bee Pollen
- NYU Langone Medical Center: Bee Pollen
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