How Bee Pollen Can Boost Your Immune System and Prevent Allergies
Why Use Bee Pollen?
I often use bee pollen on top of my smoothies and love the taste. It is not for everyone though. Did you know when using bee pollen or honey it is important that it is sourced locally, right from where you live? Why? Natural Paths have discovered that when bee pollen comes from a local plant species you are allergic to, locally sourced pollen will protect your immune system from reacting to airborne allergen exposure from those same plants, perhaps by desensitizing you to it. It is also important to note bee pollen that has a variety of colors is often sourced from many different plant species which in turn will protect you against more allergens.
How does bee pollen help allergies?
An allergy happens when your body develops an immune response to an allergen, creating antibodies. These antibodies then activate certain receptors on your cells to release histamine, resulting in an allergic reaction (puffy eyes, runny nose, etc). Bee pollen reduces histamine, similar to over-the-counter medicine for allergies. Bee pollen can be effective for a wide range of respiratory diseases, ranging from asthma to chronic sinus infections and even those trying to quit drinking alcohol.
Benefits of Bee Pollen:
- Antifungal
- Antimicrobial
- Antiviral
- Anti-inflammatory
- Immune system supporter
- Local Analgesic
- Burn care
What are some of the key vitamins and minerals in Bee Pollen?
- Vitamin B Complex
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Copper
- Iron
- Zinc
- Phosphorus
- Potassium
- Selenium
This scientific article is a wonderful resource for more information
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4377380/
Other amazing healing products that come from bees are bee propolis which helps with itchy throats and respiratory issues, royal jelly which supports brain health and hormone balance and good old fashion raw honey which helps support the immune system and can even boost serotonin and melatonin levels to support a good night’s sleep.
If you are having a hard time sourcing your bee pollen locally, here is a good place to purchase bee pollen.
https://beekeepersnaturals.com/
Is Bee Pollen Safe?
According to WebMD, bee pollen appears to be safe for most people, at least when taken for a short term. But if you have pollen allergies, you may get more than you bargained for. Bee pollen (like ragweed or other plants, depending on where the bee pollen comes from) can cause a serious allergic reaction — including itching, redness, shortness of breath, hives, swelling, and anaphylaxis.
Bee pollen is not safe for children or pregnant women. Women should also avoid using bee pollen if they are breastfeeding.
Bee pollen may cause increased bleeding if taken with certain blood thinners like warfarin. Check with your doctor before taking bee pollen if you take any medications, over-the-counter medicines, or herbals.