Bee pollen

Pollen from flowers is a powdery substance which can vary in colour (white, yellow, orange, purple and even black).

Pollen from flowers is a powdery substance which can vary in colour (white, yellow, orange, purple and even black). It is produced by the plants themselves for their own pollination. 87% of all plants are reproduced through this process, which provides 77% of all food consumed by humans!

Collecting pollen
Pollen-collecting bees get pollen from flowers, adding a bit of nectar and placing it in a honeycomb cell. Beekeepers then collect the pollen with a pollen trap, which is placed at the entrance of the hive. It is frozen straight away at −18 °C.
Pollen contains:

  • Proteins (with all the necessary amino acids in the ideal ratio)
  • Sugars (but not of high calorific value, a tablespoon contains just 45 calories)
  • Lipids
  • Lecithin (important for the metabolism of fat)
  • Macroelements and microelements
  • Vitamins B, C and E
  • Flavonoids (with high anti-oxidant and antimicrobial action), among them rutin
  • Carotenoids
  • Enzymes
  • Probiotics
  • Cinnamic acid (activates the body’s detoxification system).

Pollen’s contribution to health

  • Improves body and brain function, calming nervousness and insomnia, even depression.
  • Rutin protects capillary walls. It additionally protects the prostate from inflammation and malignant hypertrophy.
  • Reinforces the immune system and advances the body’s detoxification.
  • Controls liver’s function.
  • Improves absorption of nutrients and balances the intestines’ function. Helps the natural flora of the bowel (probiotics) and suppresses pathogens, which can disturb the absorption of nutrients and cause metabolic syndrome
  • Lowers LDL (bad) and increases HDL (good) cholesterol. Lowers total cholesterol and lipid levels.
  • Has been used successfully to treat obesity (increases metabolism and gives a feeling of being full).
  • Controls blood pressure and hormone levels.
  • Reduces allergic reaction from inhaled pollen.
  • Increases libido and enhances fertility.
  • Increases red blood cell in children up to 30%, haemoglobin up to 10%.
  • Studies that go as far back as 1948 mention protection from cancer and a positive effect on longevity and well being.
  • Helps athletes to improve on their records.

    • Dosage

  • Adults can start with 1⁄2 a teaspoon and gradually reach 1–2 tablespoons per day.
  • Children should start with few granules only and gradually reach 1 teaspoon per day.
  • Daily use of pollen is recommended for at least 4 months. It is to be taken in the morning, as it is or mixed with honey or with honey and yoghurt or in orange juice, and at least half an hour before a meal. Athletes with a heavy training schedule can triple the dose, as can individuals with certain health issues after consulting their doctor.

    • Source: Federation of Greek Beekeepers’ Associations