Bee pollen benefits health in many ways when taken as a dietary supplement. It is actually the dust-sized powder-like seed found on flower stamens. This pollen collects on honeybees are they move from blossom to blossom, providing reproduction for the plant. There are special enzymes and nectar which is secreted into the pollen by honeybees, hence the name. When harvested for human consumption, the pollen is collected with a special device installed at the entrance of beehives which brushes the bees’ back legs, allowing the pollen to collect in a container.
The benefits of bee pollen are due to the wide array of minerals, vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, co-enzymes, and hormones contained in the substance. Bee pollen has lots of B vitamins, vitamins C and E, antioxidants like lycopene, beta carotene, and selenium, and flavanoids. Bee pollen has taken its place among the list of powerful superfoods.
It should be mentioned that anyone with life threatening bee sting allergy should not take bee pollen. It is also not recommended for use by pregnant women or those attempting to conceive without the advice of a medical professional.
Increased Energy:
When first taking bee pollen, a big surge in energy may be felt. With regular use, in a week or so the large surge tapers off, leaving a consistent improved energy level, greater stamina and longer endurance. Along with this benefit usually comes an enhanced sense of well being and greater quality of life.
Rejuvenation:
Often called the “Fountain of Youth”, unlike Ponce De Leon’s mysterious fountain, this one is easy to obtain. The antioxidants slow all aspects of the aging process and the other nutrients help prevent cancer and chronic illnesses of all sorts. Regular users of this dietary supplement say that it makes them feel 10 years or more younger. It is also attributed to longevity.
Mental Acuity:
Mental focus and brain fatigue are among bee pollen’s benefits. Improved concentration and mental stamina make working long hours easier without exhaustion. It is often used by aging people who have noticed the first signs of age-related reduction in short or long term memory. While any major memory changes should indicate the need for professional medical care, it is well known that over the years, mental focus and memory decline; bee pollen slows and even sometimes reverses these changes. It also wards off stress-related anxiety and reduced focus.
Immune System:
Bee pollen benefits the immune system so that infections can be avoided or shortened in duration. It even has shown that it can reduce the effects of toxins, removing them from the body.
Sexual Benefits:
Bee pollen is reputed to increase male performance and female desire. Perhaps this is partly because of the stress reduction and health improvement provided by bee pollen or perhaps it is a benefit all its own. However, those who take bee pollen for these reasons swear by it.