According to a 2015 review published in Hindawi, bee pollen may promote human health and wellness because of its more than 250 compounds, including amino acids, flavonoids, vitamins, and macro and micro-nutrients. Pollen is a significant source of vitamins A, E, B1, B2, B6, D, and C. Macronutrients include potassium, calcium, and magnesium, plus micronutrients such as iron, copper, zinc, and manganese. It also contains large amounts of protein, essential fatty acids, phospholipids, and a host of phenolic compounds.
Bee pollen’s unique chemical makeup has been shown to help improve circulatory and cardiovascular issues, including protection from heart attack and stroke. Animal studies suggest bee pollen could help prevent and reverse liver damage due to drug and alcohol use and protect against toxic occupational hazards, like heavy metals, industrial dust, and gases.
Bee pollen has long been used to treat inflammation. Animal studies show that bee pollen extract can reduce swelling and possibly protect against the development of tumors (per Healthline). It may help support immune function, kill bacteria, boost metabolism, relieve menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, and improve muscle growth. However, not all bee pollen is created equal. How well bee pollen works depends on which components it contains. A 2019 study published in the Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences noted the chemical composition of bee pollen changes depending on which flowers the pollens were sourced.
