Bees do more than just create honey. In fact, herbalists for centuries have recognized bees and more specifically bee pollen, as a nutritious superfood. Some herbalists even believe bee pollen can cure numerous ailments, such as cancer, diabetes and more – though this has not yet been proven scientifically. Aside from the hype claims, pollen health benefits are real and a plenty, even if they do not cure cancer.
What Bee Pollen Is
Pollen from bees has minerals, carbohydrates, lipids, vitamins and even protein. Bee pollen comes from the sticky, dust-like substance that sticks to the bodies of bees as they pollinize flowers and plants. Keep in mind, however, that bee pollen is not honey or bee venom.
Forms of Bee Pollen
Antioxidants
Increased Immunity
- Vitamins B, C, D and E
- Proteins
- Mono and Polyunsaturated Fats
- Beta-Carotene
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Lecithin
- Selenium
- Nucleic Acids
What do all of these nutrients and vitamins mean for the human body? Each and every one of these nutrients is essential in a healthy body’s immune system; which is why improved immunity is one of the largest pollen health benefits known to health professionals.
Allergen-Resistance
Those that suffer from frequent allergies can find relief in bee pollen. The reason being, pollen can contain elements that often lead to hay fever and other seasonal allergies. By introducing small doses of bee pollen daily, individuals can lessen their sensitivity to seasonal allergies.
Cholesterol
Have high cholesterol? One of the newest revelations in pollen health benefits is how bee pollen can help with high cholesterol. When used as a supplement or sprinkled on food, bee pollen can reduce triglycerides and cholesterol in the blood. Bad cholesterol (known as low-density lipoproteins or LDL) is decreased with a daily regimen of pollen – that means lower cholesterol for you over time.
Skin Ailments
Most likely you have already been using bee pollen on your skin without even knowing it. Skin softening products such as lip balms; have been using bee pollen extracts for years to help increase moisture on dry, chapped lips. Individuals suffering from eczema or baby’s suffering from diaper rash can also find softer, smoother skin by using products that contain bee pollen extract.
Got Stress?
Those suffering from stress or fatigue-related stress can also benefit from a dose of bee pollen. Since bee pollen contains essential fatty acids, proteins and vitamins that have been proven effective in regulating moods, pollen is an excellent supplement for those looking to handle stress a little more naturally.
Hormone Production
As a person ages, their body’s natural ability to produce essential hormones decreases, which can effect diet, libido and overall energy. Physicians have been prescribing remedies to fix this lack of hormone production, but an all-natural way to combat lower hormones is bee pollen. Increased hormone production is a large part of pollen health benefits. Herbalists have used bee pollen for years to help increase energy as well as libido in both men and women of all ages – and it works.
A Word of Caution
Though there are numerous pollen health benefits, it is important to remember that bee pollen can cause an allergic reaction in those that are allergic to bee venom, honey or pollen itself. Consult your physician before trying a daily regimen of bee pollen, especially if you have been diagnosed with bee pollen or venom allergies in the past.