Interesting Bee Pollen Facts

Pollen is the dust-sized seed found on the stamen of all flower blossoms.

Many people are surprised to learn that there are actually three types of pollen:

• Entomophilous pollen is distributed by insects, specifically bees. Pollen grains of entomophilous plants are generally larger than the fine pollens of anemophilous plants, and possess higher nutritional value.

• Anemophilous pollen is spread by wind. Almost all allergen pollens are anemophilous (e.g.  ragweed pollen, which causes hay fever). Pollen from anemophilous plants tends to be smaller and lighter in weight than entomophilous pollen, with very low nutritional value.
• Zoophilous pollen is spread by animals such as birds, reptiles, and mammals.

Bee pollen is a source of nutrition for the members of a bee colony.

A full colony of bees can actually pull in as many as 50,000 loads of pollen a day. Each bee makes an average of 10 pollen runs a day, flying up to 3  miles between its hive and surrounding flowers to gather nectar and bee pollen.

The pollen collects on the legs of honeybees as they move from flower to flower in search of nectar. The bees secrete nectar and special enzymes into the flower pollen to create what we know as “bee pollen.” The bees pack the pollen into granules by adding honey or nectar from honey sacs, as well as an enzyme that prevents germination and metabolizes the pollen for food.

Bee pollen varies dramatically in color, shape and size depending on the floral source from which it was gathered and the time of year.

For example, bee pollen from an asparagus is bright orange, while pollen from cucumbers and melons are pale yellow. Pollen from a crab apple tree is light olive, Poppies produce gray bee pollen, and fireweed yields blue pollen.

Fresh bee pollen is fluffy; never hard.  When frozen,  bee pollen will stay fresh for 1.5 years and 8 months when kept refrigerated.

Here Are Just 10 Great Reasons To Add Fresh Bee Pollen To Your Daily Diet!

1. Energy Enhancer - The range of nutrients found within bee pollen makes it a great natural energizer. The carbohydrates, protein and B vitamins can help keep you going all day by enhancing stamina and fighting off fatigue. 

2. Skin Soother - Bee pollen is often used in topical products that aim to treat inflammatory conditions and common skin irritations like psoriasis or eczema. The amino acids and vitamins protect the skin and aid the regeneration of cells. 

3. Respiratory System - Bee pollen contains a high quantity of antioxidants that may have an anti-inflammatory effect on the tissues of the lungs, preventing the onset of asthma.

4. Treating Allergies – Pollen reduces the presence of histamine, ameliorating many allergies. Dr. Leo Conway, M.D of Denver Colorado, reported that 94 percent of his patients were completely free from allergy symptoms once treated with oral feeding of pollen. Everything from asthma to allergies to sinus problemswere cleared, confirming that bee pollen is wonderfully effective against a wide range of respiratory diseases.

5. Digestive System - In addition to healthful vitamins, minerals and protein, bee pollen contains enzymes that can aid in digestion. Enzymes assist your body in getting all the nutrients you need from the food that you eat.

6. Immune System Booster - Pollen is good for the intestinal flora and thereby supports the immune system. According to holistic health expert Dr. Joseph Mercola, bee pollen has antibiotic-type properties that can help protect the body from contracting viruses. It's also rich in antioxidants that protect the cells from the damaging oxidation of free radicals. 

7. Treats Addictions – Used holistically for healing addictions and inhibiting cravings by suppressing impulses. Because bee pollen crashes cravings, it is a very useful research is needed into this benefit, particularly when it comes to weight management. 

8. Supports the Cardiovascular System - Bee Pollen contains large amounts of Rutin; an antioxidant bioflavonoid that helps strengthen capillaries, blood vessels, assists with circulatory problems and corrects cholesterol levels. Its potent anti-clotting powers could help prevent heart attack and stroke.

9. Prostate Aid - Men who suffer from benign prostate hyperplasia can find relief by using bee pollen. Bee pollen can help reduce inflammation to stop frequent urges to urinate. 

10. Infertility Problems - Bee pollen stimulates and restores ovarian function, therefore may be used to assist in accelerating pregnancy. As well as being a hormonal booster it is also a great aphrodisiac!

How Should Bee Pollen Be Consumed?

Bee pollen is a food and acts faster and more effectively when taken at mealtime and especially with fruit, which lets it gently, perform a little cleansing of the intestinal flora.

A spoonful at breakfast, preferably taken with a piece of fruit: the fruit fibers (raw hemicellulose) reinforce the activity of the fresh pollen.You'll be pleased to know that bee keepers are able to remove pollen from hives without harming the bees or disturbing their routine. 

What Is Your Experience With Bee Pollen?