Bee Pollen: Current Status and Therapeutic Potential
by Shaden A. M. Khalifa, Mohamed H. Elashal, Nermeen Yosri, Ming Du 4, Syed G. Musharraf, Lutfun Nahar, Satyajit D. Sarker, Zhiming Guo, Wei Cao, Xiaobo Zou, Aida A. Abd El-Wahed, Jianbo Xiao, Hany A. Omar, Mohamed-Elamir F. Hegazy and Hesham R. El-Seedi
Abstract
Bee pollen is a combination of plant pollen and honeybee secretions and nectar. The Bible and ancient Egyptian texts are documented proof of its use in public health. It is considered a gold mine of nutrition due to its active components that have significant health and medicinal properties. Bee pollen contains bioactive compounds including proteins, amino acids, lipids, carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, and polyphenols. The vital components of bee pollen enhance different bodily functions and offer protection against many diseases. It is generally marketed as a functional food with affordable and inexpensive prices with promising future industrial potentials. This review highlights the dietary properties of bee pollen and its influence on human health, and its applications in the food industry.
* THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.