Royal Jelly

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Latest Edit: Iva Lloyd, ND 2021-08-24 (EDT)

See Also Food Supplements
Royal jelly.jpg

Royal jelly is produced by worker bees in order to feed the queen bee. It is produced in the glands found in the back of bee's throats and is made from mixing honey, bee pollen, and enzymes to make a thick, milky substance.[1] The sole purpose of this royal jelly is to feed the queen bee which allows her to live for up to five to seven years compared to the lifespan of a normal worker bee which is seven to eight weeks. It is therefore coveted for its suspected anti-aging properties. Royalsin, a protein found in royal jelly has been found to have antibiotic properties against gram-positive but not gram-negative bacteria. Royal jelly also contains sugars, lipids, vitamins such as pantothenic acid, minerals, and phytosterols. It is often used for its lipid lowering, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative actions.[2].

Uses

The following is a list of the primary uses for royal jelly.[1], [2]

  • Royal jelly may be beneficial for lowering cholesterol by approximately 14% in individuals with moderate to severe hypercholesterolemia.
  • Royal jelly is used as an antibiotic against gram positive but not gram negative bacteria. It has been shown to have an immunomodulating effect, stimulating antibody production.
  • Some preliminary research has shown some benefit in using royal jelly for its anti-cancer effects. More research is needed.

Prescribing Considerations

The recommended dosages have not yet been established. To determine what your specific requirements are talk to your naturopathic doctor or other trained medical professional.

  • Royal jelly is available in capsules, chewable tablets, elixirs, and liquid forms.
  • Adult: typical doses range from 50-100mg daily

Safety

Royal Jelly is generally considered safe. Specific safety precautions include:

  • Allergic reaction is the most common side effect. Bee products should be avoided if one has a known allergy to conifer and poplar trees. Signs and symptoms of reaction may range from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe asthma and anaphylactic shock, intestinal bleeding, or even death.
Royal jelly is used in some cosmetic preparations. It is important to be aware of this in case of allergic hypersensitivity.
  • Drug Interactions
  • No known drug interactions exist.[1]

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 Pizzorno Joseph E, Murray Michael T (1999) Textbook of Natural Medicine, Elsevier.
  2. 2.0 2.1 Hendler Sheldon, Rorvik David (Editors). (2001) PDR for Nutritional Supplements, Medical Economics Company Inc.