Pollen as Super food – A Herbal Perspective
Pollen as superfood:
Pollen is collected by bees and other insects. Pollen has many health benefits because it is a rich source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Some of the health benefits of pollen include: improved heart health, relief from allergies, relief from anxiety and depression, and improved mental clarity.
Pollen is also sometimes consumed by humans as a natural supplement or superfood, although it is not a necessary part of the human diet.
There are several potential health benefits associated with consuming pollen. Some people claim that it can boost energy levels, improve immune function, and support digestion. Pollen is also a source of nutrients such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is also high in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
There are many types of pollen, and each has its own unique health benefits. There are bee pollen, pine pollen, lotus pollen, date pollen, grass pollen, wildflower pollen, tree pollen and few others.
1. Bee pollen:
Bee pollen is the pollen of the honeybee. It’s the type of pollen that’s most well-known to us because bees collect it to feed to their young. Bee pollen is a good source of protein, fiber, iron, and other nutrients. One tablespoon of bee pollen contains about 20 grams of protein. It’s also a source of antioxidants and phytonutrients.
2. Pine pollen:
Pine pollen is the pollen of the pine tree. It’s the type of pollen that’s most often found on the forest floor. It is major allergens and can cause respiratory problems in people who are sensitive to it.
Pine pollen is composed of more than 20 different amino acids, 14 vitamins (including vitamin D3) and 24 minerals (including iron, phosphorus, sulphur, selenium, potassium, calcium, zinc, manganese, and copper) alongside 18 natural enzymes & plant hormones.
• Has Anti-aging properties
• Known to boosts testosterone levels
• Has impact on mood, energy, stamina and endurance
• Supports and strengthens immune health
• Balanced hormone levels (men+women)
• Tightens and improves skin health
• Cardiovascular health
• Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
3. Lotus pollen:
Lotus pollen is the pollen of the lotus plant. It’s the type of pollen that’s most often found in water. Lotus pollen is made up of microscopic pollens that are released by the lotus flower. The lotus flower is a water plant that grows in marshy areas. The lotus flower has a long stem that reaches up to six feet tall. The lotus flower is pollinated by bees.
Lotus flower is very important in both Ayurvedic and Chinese Medicine. It is rich in antioxidant and has medicinal properties such as, antipyretic, antiviral, anti cancer and hepato protective/ It is used in treating diabetes, pulmonary fibrosis; restenosis, atherosclerosis;and in the treatment for erectile dysfunction.
• This pollen has Anti-inflammatory Activity.
• Like the other pollen it too has anti-aging properties.
• It is also notes for its anti-arrhythmia support
• Supports weight loss
• Boosts the immune system
4. Date pollen:
Date pollen is a type of pollen that falls from the stamen of a flower, and is composed of the male reproductive cells. Date pollen is collected by beekeepers and used in the production of honey. Date pollen can also be used as a natural food additive.
Date pollen is often used in baking recipes. Date pollen as traditional remedy has been used for its antidiabetic, antihypertensive, anti-hemolytic, and hypercholesterolemic activities.
Date pollen has been used to combat infertility in folk medicine. It contains amino acids, fatty acids, flavonoids, saponins, and sterols as well as B Vitamins, phosphorus, calcium, iron, vitamin C, E and beta carotene. It also contains Isotron hormone that activates the female ovaries.
Some known benefits are:
• Positive impact on the nervous system and brain function.
• Contains anti-aging properties.
• Used in treatment of infertility in both men and women. Also useful during pregnancy and breast feeding. The calcium and iron help with that.
• Reduces the development of benign and malignant tumors.
• Known to lower blood pressure and cholesterol if combined with high fiber and low salt diet.
• Improves gastro intestinal health.
5. Grass pollen:
Grass pollen is a type of pollen that is produced by a number of different plants. Grass pollen can be a nuisance for people who suffer from allergies, as it can cause sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. Additionally, grass pollen can also cause respiratory problems in people who are sensitive to it.
6. Wild Flower pollen:
Wild flower pollen is a type of pollen that comes from flowers that are not normally grown in areas near the Earth’s equator. Pollen from these flowers is often considered to be more exotic, and therefore more desirable, because it contains more of the chemicals that make flowers attractive to pollinators.
7. Tree pollen:
Tree pollen is a type of pollen that is produced by a variety of trees. Tree pollen can be a nuisance to people because it can cause allergies or asthma in some people. Tree pollen can also cause other health problems if it gets into the air.
8. Weed pollen:
Weed pollen is made up of tiny particles that are composed of a variety of different chemicals. These chemicals can include THC, CBD, etc. Weed pollen is a common constituent of the air we breathe. In fact, it’s estimated that weed pollen makes up approximately 20% of the air we breathe!
Caution About Pollen: Store tightly closed in a cool, dry place/ Protect from sunlight and moisture Store in a glass container and keep out of reach of children.
Ask your doctor if you are on prescription drugs for contraindication. If you are trying to conceive or pregnant or lactating please make an informed decision after taking to your doctor.
