Bee pollen is made of flower pollen, nectar and enzymes secreted by bees, and is considered a superfood because it contains very high levels of protein, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and other important nutrients. Many people take bee pollen to boost their immune systems, increase their energy or treat seasonal allergies. Natural food stores sell bee pollen in capsule and tablet form, and as loose granules. You can take capsules and tablets by mouth in the quantity expressed on the bottle, or add loose bee pollen to many kinds of food.
Step 1
Test for an allergic reaction. Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, you should not take bee pollen at all if you are allergic to bee stings, since serious allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock, may occur. People who are allergic to some flowers, weeds or other plants may experience milder allergic reactions such as an itchy throat, runny nose, watery eyes or headache from taking bee pollen. To test for pollen allergies, place a single granule of bee pollen under your tongue and allow it to dissolve. If you don't experience any adverse effects after about 10 minutes, try two or three granules, and continue increasing the amount until you have taken a small pinch of bee pollen (10 to 20 granules) with no ill effects. Open capsules or crush tablets to access a small amount of bee pollen to test for allergies. Do not take bee pollen if you experience an allergic reaction, or talk to your doctor about increasing your tolerance.
Step 2
Read the label on the package of bee pollen. Different brands of capsules or tablets contain different levels of bee pollen, and one brand may recommend one capsule a day, while another may instruct you to take three to four capsules.
Step 3
Start with a small amount of bee pollen granules, between 1/2 to 1 tsp., to see how bee pollen affects you. Slowly increase the amount of bee pollen you take to 1 tbsp. If you tolerate bee pollen well, you may eventually take up to several tablespoons of bee pollen granules several times a day.
Step 4
Begin treating seasonal allergies with bee pollen about six months before you normally experience allergies. So if you normally get a runny nose and watery eyes in September, start taking bee pollen in March. This gives your immune system plenty of time to benefit from bee pollen in preparation for allergy season.
Step 5
Add bee pollen granules to smoothies, yogurt, granola or trail mix. Bee pollen contains the most nutrients when it is raw, so avoid adding it to warm foods.
Tips and Warnings
- Bee pollen is generally safe, but you should still talk to your doctor or naturopath before taking any supplement. You doctor may also be able to help you determine what dosage of bee pollen is right for you. Bee pollen granules, capsules and tablets should all be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for maximum freshness. While some people find bee pollen to be bitter, most people report that it tastes slightly sweet, like dusty honey.
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