Everyone knows that bees provide us with honey. But less well-known is another byproduct of honeybees -- bee pollen. The New York University Langone Medical Center explains that bee pollen is pollen from flowers, collected by bees as they gather nectar. The pollen clings to the bees' legs and thus is carried back to the hive, where it is used for food; however, bee pollen can also be collected to use as a health and nutrition supplement. Some people use bee pollen as a natural treatment for allergies.
Pollen Nutrients
Bee pollen's reputation as a health supplement stems from its rich nutrient content. According to the University of Utah Health Care, bee pollen contains numerous vitamins, minerals, amino acids, important enzymes, antioxidants and trace elements. While the exact nutritional makeup of bee pollen varies depending on the flower source, region and season of the year, bee pollen is roughly 55 percent carbohydrate, 35 percent protein, 2 percent health fats and 3 percent vitamins and minerals, says the University of Utah.
Allergy Treatment
Bee pollen has been taken as an energy booster and sports performance enhancer since the 1970s; however, another common use is for the prevention of hay fever. Some people believe that ingesting pollen builds up resistance to it, thereby minimizing allergy symptoms. If used for this condition, it's important to consume bee pollen from local sources, according to New York University. The appropriate dose of bee pollen for allergies may be explained on product packaging but ideally should be determined by your physician.
Potential Dangers
Despite some allergy sufferers' allegiance to bee pollen as a natural allergy treatment, bee pollen can be dangerous. The University of Utah Health Care notes that a small percentage of people are allergic to bee pollen itself. In this case, ingestion of bee pollen can cause severe anaphylactic reactions, which can even be fatal. Because of the potential for this reaction, the North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension Cleveland County Center advises against the use of bee pollen for the treatment of allergies.
Considerations
Some health experts don't believe bee pollen provides any health benefits at all. The University of Utah states health claims regarding bee pollen are scientifically unsupported, and most physicians don't believe bee pollen is helpful, particularly given its potential for adverse side effects. If you are interested in taking bee pollen for allergies, consult your physician for medical approval before trying it.
