Bee pollen is a naturally nutrient-dense substance. It is considered by some to be an adaptogenic tonic, packed with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that work to:**
- Potentially modulate inflammatory responses.**
- Help optimize the immune system.**
- Bee pollen is sometimes used to enhance athletic recovery.**
What is Bee Pollen?
Sometimes referred to as “bee bread,” bee pollen is the nutrient-rich substance that bees create after gathering pollen from various flowering plants. Bee pollen benefits have been extolled throughout history, with ancient Greek wellness innovators such as Pliny the Elder and Hippocrates writing of its many health-promoting qualities. Over the centuries, many cultures across the globe have acknowledged the pollen for its considerable nutritional content, with bees themselves renowned for their vitality and productivity.**
As flower pollen gets mixed with nectar and bee saliva while handled by bees, pollen granules are formed. The specific content of the granules varies based on the location of the hive and the particular plants visited by the bees for pollen collection. Despite these variations, most bee pollen contains notable amounts of proteins and carbohydrates, along with numerous vitamins, 25+ minerals, enzymes, fatty acids, lecithin, flavonols and amino acids. Flavonoids such as quercetin are also commonly present.**
Traditionally used by many civilizations as a source of energy, bee pollen has been researched for its notable antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. While research is limited, scientific investigations have also begun to support the historically held bee pollen benefits of encouraging ideal immune response and modulating allergic and inflammatory responses. Bee pollen is popularly used as a sports nutrition supplement for energy, endurance and recovery. It is also believed to support hormone levels and may help with menstrual issues.**
Bee Pollen Supplements
Bee pollen is sourced directly from the hive and often available as frozen or dehydrated granules. It is also regularly sold as capsules, tablets, granules or powder. The pollen is sometimes offered in combination with bee propolis, a resinous material found in the hive, and royal jelly, the protein-rich substance used as sustenance by bees. These compounds are believed to complement bee pollen benefits. Bee pollen cannot be standardized, due variations that are inherent in the substance; i.e., region, types of flowers, season, types of bees, methods of collection, etc.**
Bee Pollen Directions for Use
Before starting any routine supplementation, it is important to consult with your health care professional. Though there is no standard bee pollen dosage, serving sizes are often between 400 mg and 600 mg.**
