| We welcome Alternative Health Journal Members to the Insiders Health Family |
|
Royal Jelly
Royal jelly is a thick, milky substance produced by worker bees to feed the queen bee. The worker bees mix honey and bee pollen with enzymes in the glands of their throats to produce royal jelly.
Where is it found?
Royal jelly is available in liquid form (usually in glass vials), tablets, and capsules.
Royal jelly has been used in connection with the following condition (refer to it for complete information):
| Science Ratings | Health Concerns |
|---|---|
 |
High cholesterol |
 Reliable
and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary studies
suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but minimal
or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal health
benefit. |
|
Who is likely to be deficient?
Because royal jelly is not an essential nutrient, deficiencies do not occur.
How much is usually taken?
Royal jelly in the amount of 50–100 mg per day has been used in most of the studies on cholesterol lowering.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Allergic reactions are the most common side effect. Allergic reactions from oral intake of royal jelly can range from very mild (e.g., mild gastrointestinal upset) to more severe reactions, including asthma, anaphylaxis (shock), intestinal bleeding, and even death in people who are extremely allergic to bee products.1 2 3 People who are allergic to bee pollen, honey, or conifer and poplar trees should not use royal jelly orally. Topical use of royal jelly has been reported to cause skin irritations in some people.4
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with royal jelly.
References
(To view, roll mouse over the "References" heading; to hide, click on the heading)
Copyright © 2007 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved. www.healthnotes.com
Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.
Learn more about the authors of Healthnotes.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires September 2008.