Bee pollen is nothing but plant pollen compacted by worker bees who reduce it to granules; its composition depends on the flowers present in the territory of origin of the pollen itself. The different varieties have different antibacterial and antioxidant properties, just like the benefits they can bring to allergy sufferers. Generally speaking, if you are interested in using this product to reduce allergies, you should take the local one.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Choosing the Correct Type of Pollen
Step 1. Choose the right product
There are many foods made by bees and pollen is one of them; these are small granules of compacted flower pollen, which sticks to insects as they fly and which also contains their saliva. You can buy it raw, in tablets or capsules.
- The raw version is the best and you should never heat it, as the heat destroys the beneficial enzymes; you can simply take a spoonful or sprinkle it on foods.
- Remember that it is a very different product from honey, honeycombs, royal jelly or the poison of these insects; some people believe that other bee derivatives, such as honey and royal jelly, are useful against allergies.
Step 2. Find a local reseller
Pollen collected in the area where you live is the most effective in fighting your specific allergies; when you decide to take it, find a dealer who deals with "zero kilometer" products, to be able to desensitize the body from allergens.
- Pollen should be collected by bees in areas where there are plants you are allergic to.
- If there are no retailers in the area where you live, do some research to find a reputable beekeeper who sells pure products and provides bee pollen collected from many different plants.
Step 3. Observe its color
Choose the one with the most different shades, because it means that it contains substances that come from numerous plants, so you can "immunize" yourself from different allergens.
Step 4. Know where to buy it
You can buy it in different places, depending on the area where you live. Natural food shops are among them, but you can often turn to agricultural markets as well; if you find a beekeeper selling their own honey, they will probably be able to supply you with pollen as well.
Do some research online to locate local traders, markets, or beekeepers who stock this product
Part 2 of 3: Using Pollen to Treat Allergies
Step 1. Take a test dose
Before taking a lot of it, take a small amount to monitor your body's reactions. Start with the tip of a teaspoon and wait at least 24 hours to see if you are experiencing adverse symptoms or not.
- Alternatively, place a bead in your mouth and gradually increase the number to assess the dose you tolerate or your reactions.
- Adverse symptoms range from a small rash to a severe asthma attack to an anaphylactic crisis; the latter can be potentially deadly, so be careful.
- Tell your doctor about any reactions you experience.
Step 2. Slowly incorporate this substance
If you do not have any negative symptoms after 24 hours, gradually increase the daily dose of pollen; increase the amount by a tip of a teaspoon per day.
Typical dosage is half a teaspoon twice a day throughout the allergy season
Step 3. Start one month in advance
To maximize the benefits, you should start taking it every day, one month before allergy season; afterwards, continue to take it to reduce symptoms.
If you are hypersensitive to autumn pollen, buy and consume pollen collected in the fall; if problems occur in the spring, use the crop harvested this season
Part 3 of 3: Understanding the Action of Bee Pollen
Step 1. Read up on the benefits
Generally speaking, pollen is rich in amino acids, antioxidants and fatty acids; it also contains several minerals such as zinc, copper, iron and potassium, as well as vitamins such as E, A and those of group B. It also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Step 2. Learn how it works on allergies
The ability of this substance to desensitize the body from allergens that cause hay fever has only been tested in a few studies, but the results have generally been positive. Desensitization is a process used to change the body's allergic response; bee pollen increases the defenses against allergens.
- Pollen and its extracts have been shown to be useful in reducing the release of histamine, the substance that triggers severe allergic symptoms, and consequently in controlling itching, rhinorrhea, watery eyes and sneezing.
- In some human studies, positive effects have been found among people allergic to grass pollen, house dust and hay fever.
Step 3. Know which categories are at risk
This product has not been tested on pregnant women and children; as a result, these people can be considered at risk. It is not recommended to administer pollen to children under the age of 12 and to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding; asthmatics should also be excluded from this type of therapy.
Be aware that some individuals may exhibit negative reactions; in some cases, severe allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock, have occurred
Step 4. Talk to your doctor about this type of therapy
Tell them that you would like to try desensitizing yourself with bee pollen, as they may provide you with advice that is relevant to your specific situation.
