What are the scientifically proven benefits of royal jelly. How does royal jelly impact menopause symptoms. Can royal jelly help with diabetes management. What precautions should be taken when using royal jelly.

What is Royal Jelly and Its Nutritional Composition

Royal jelly is a fascinating substance produced by young worker bees to feed queen bee larvae. This creamy white secretion has garnered attention for its potential health benefits and unique nutritional profile. Let’s delve into the composition of royal jelly to understand what makes it so special:

• Water (50-60%)
• Proteins (18%)
• Carbohydrates (15%)
• Lipids (3-6%)
• Mineral salts (1.5%)

In addition to these major components, royal jelly contains small amounts of vitamins, particularly B-complex vitamins, and minerals. It also boasts polyphenols, which are plant-based compounds known for their antioxidant properties.

Why is the nutritional content of royal jelly significant? The combination of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids provides a well-rounded nutritional profile that may contribute to various health benefits. The presence of antioxidants in the form of polyphenols suggests potential protective effects against oxidative stress in the body.

Royal Jelly and Menopause: Alleviating Symptoms Naturally

As women transition through menopause, they often seek natural remedies to manage the associated symptoms. Royal jelly has emerged as a potential ally in this journey. A 2011 study investigated the effects of a supplement containing royal jelly on menopausal symptoms. How did the study unfold?

Researchers conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 120 women. Half of the participants received a capsule containing royal jelly and three other natural ingredients, while the other half received a placebo. The treatment lasted for four weeks, with participants taking the capsules twice daily.

What were the results? Both groups reported a reduction in menopausal symptoms. However, the group taking the royal jelly-containing capsules experienced significantly better results compared to the placebo group. This suggests that royal jelly, in combination with other natural ingredients, may offer relief from menopausal discomfort.

Building on these findings, a more recent study focused specifically on royal jelly’s impact on cholesterol levels in postmenopausal women. The research involved participants taking 150 milligrams of royal jelly daily for three months. The results indicated improvements in cholesterol levels, further supporting the potential benefits of royal jelly for menopausal women.

Premenstrual Syndrome Relief: Can Royal Jelly Help?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects many women, causing a range of physical and emotional symptoms. Could royal jelly offer some relief? A 2014 study set out to answer this question.

In this investigation, 110 participants were divided into two groups. One group received a royal jelly capsule daily, while the other received a placebo. The study spanned two menstrual cycles, allowing researchers to observe the effects over time.

What did the study reveal? Women who took the royal jelly capsules reported less severe PMS symptoms over the course of the two months compared to those in the placebo group. This suggests that royal jelly may have a positive impact on PMS management.

How might royal jelly alleviate PMS symptoms? While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, it’s possible that the nutritional components of royal jelly, including B vitamins and minerals, play a role in hormone regulation and mood stabilization. Further research is needed to elucidate the specific pathways involved.

Wound Healing: Royal Jelly’s Potential in Tissue Repair

The process of wound healing is complex and involves various cellular mechanisms. Research has indicated that royal jelly might play a role in accelerating this process. A laboratory study published in the journal Nutrition Research and Practice shed light on this potential benefit.

What did the study reveal about royal jelly and wound healing? The research demonstrated that royal jelly could significantly increase the movement of fibroblasts to a wound site. Fibroblasts are crucial cells that coordinate the wound healing process by producing collagen and other components of the extracellular matrix.

How does this finding translate to potential benefits? By promoting fibroblast migration, royal jelly may help speed up the formation of new tissue and the closure of wounds. This could be particularly valuable in cases where rapid healing is essential, such as in diabetic ulcers or surgical incisions.

While these results are promising, it’s important to note that this was a laboratory study. Further research, including clinical trials on human subjects, is necessary to confirm the wound-healing properties of royal jelly in real-world applications.

Royal Jelly and Diabetes Management: Emerging Evidence

Type 2 diabetes is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels. Recent research has explored the potential of royal jelly in managing this condition. A study involving 50 female participants with type 2 diabetes provides intriguing insights.

How was the study conducted? The participants were divided into two groups. One group received a daily dose of 1 gram of royal jelly gel, while the other received a placebo. The study lasted for 8 weeks, during which researchers monitored various parameters.

What were the key findings? The results indicated that taking royal jelly may lead to a reduction in blood glucose levels. This is a significant observation, as lower blood glucose is beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes, helping to prevent complications and improve overall health.

Why might royal jelly have this effect on blood glucose? While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, it’s possible that compounds in royal jelly may influence insulin sensitivity or glucose metabolism. Some studies have suggested that royal jelly may have insulin-like effects or stimulate insulin secretion.

However, it’s crucial to note that the researchers emphasized the need for larger studies with more participants to confirm these findings. Additionally, people with diabetes should always consult their healthcare provider before incorporating any new supplement into their management plan.

Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects of Royal Jelly

While royal jelly shows promise in various areas of health, it’s essential to approach its use with caution. As a natural remedy, royal jelly is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which means there’s no formal safety assessment or standardization of products.

What potential risks should consumers be aware of? The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported that royal jelly may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. People with asthma or other allergies may be at a higher risk of experiencing a reaction.

What symptoms might indicate an allergic reaction to royal jelly?

• Hives or excessive itching
• Wheezing or breathing difficulties
• Digestive issues (abdominal pain, diarrhea)
• Dizziness or confusion
• Nausea or vomiting

If any of these symptoms occur after taking royal jelly, it’s crucial to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional immediately.

Are there any potential drug interactions with royal jelly? Some studies suggest that royal jelly may interact with certain medications, particularly blood pressure drugs. This underscores the importance of consulting a doctor before incorporating royal jelly into one’s health regimen, especially for individuals taking prescription medications.

Forms and Dosage of Royal Jelly: Finding the Right Approach

Royal jelly is available in various forms, each with its own characteristics and potential applications. Understanding these different forms can help consumers make informed choices about how to incorporate royal jelly into their health routines.

Common Forms of Royal Jelly

• Fresh gel-like substance: This is the most natural form, closest to how bees produce it.
• Freeze-dried royal jelly: This process removes moisture while preserving nutrients, resulting in a more concentrated form.
• Powder form: Often encapsulated in pills or capsules, sometimes combined with other ingredients.
• Topical preparations: Creams or ointments for direct application to the skin.

How should one choose between these forms? The choice often depends on the intended use and personal preference. For internal consumption, capsules or freeze-dried forms may be more convenient and have a longer shelf life. For topical applications, creams or fresh royal jelly might be more appropriate.

What about dosage? There are no formal guidelines regarding the optimal dosage of royal jelly. However, it’s generally recommended to start with very small amounts and gradually increase if no adverse reactions occur. This cautious approach is particularly important given the potential for allergic reactions.

How can consumers ensure they’re using royal jelly safely? Here are some tips:

1. Start with a minimal dose to test for any adverse reactions.
2. Choose products from reputable sources that provide clear information about their content and processing methods.
3. If using royal jelly for a specific health concern, consult with a healthcare provider to determine an appropriate dosage and usage plan.
4. Be aware of any changes in your health or the emergence of new symptoms after starting royal jelly use.
5. Discontinue use immediately if any signs of an allergic reaction occur.

By approaching royal jelly use thoughtfully and with proper precautions, individuals can explore its potential benefits while minimizing risks.

Future Research Directions: Unlocking Royal Jelly’s Full Potential

While existing research on royal jelly has revealed promising benefits, many questions remain unanswered. The scientific community continues to explore this unique substance, aiming to fully understand its mechanisms of action and potential applications in human health.

What areas of research are likely to receive attention in the coming years? Here are some potential directions:

• Molecular mechanisms: Investigating how specific compounds in royal jelly interact with human cells and physiological processes.
• Standardization efforts: Developing methods to ensure consistent quality and potency of royal jelly products.
• Long-term effects: Conducting longitudinal studies to assess the safety and efficacy of royal jelly supplementation over extended periods.
• Synergistic effects: Exploring how royal jelly might work in combination with other natural substances or conventional treatments.
• Specific health conditions: Focusing on royal jelly’s potential in managing particular diseases or supporting specific aspects of health, such as cognitive function or immune system regulation.

How might advances in technology impact royal jelly research? Emerging techniques in genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics could provide deeper insights into the complex composition of royal jelly and its effects on human biology. These advanced analytical methods may help identify novel bioactive compounds and elucidate their mechanisms of action.

What challenges do researchers face in studying royal jelly? One significant hurdle is the variability in royal jelly composition, which can be influenced by factors such as bee species, environmental conditions, and processing methods. Developing standardized research protocols and reference materials will be crucial for ensuring reproducibility and comparability of study results.

How can consumers stay informed about the latest royal jelly research? Keeping an eye on reputable scientific journals and health information sources is a good start. However, it’s important to approach new findings with a critical mindset and consult healthcare professionals before making significant changes to one’s health regimen based on emerging research.

As research progresses, our understanding of royal jelly’s potential benefits and limitations will continue to evolve. This ongoing scientific inquiry holds the promise of uncovering new applications for this remarkable bee-produced substance, potentially leading to innovative approaches in nutrition, medicine, and overall health promotion.

Royal jelly benefits backed by science

Royal jelly is a creamy white substance with a high nutrient content that young bees make to feed queen bee larvae. There are claims that it offers a range of health benefits, such as easing the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and supporting wound healing.

Royal jelly is highly nutritious and may have antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties may be responsible for many of the health claims about royal jelly. People usually consume it orally or apply it directly to the skin.

Research suggests that certain nutrients in royal jelly are beneficial for health. However, there is little evidence that these benefits come specifically from royal jelly itself.

In this article, we examine the potential benefits of royal jelly and the science that supports these claims.

Share on PinterestRoyal jelly contains a high percentage of proteins and carbohydrates.

The nutritional content of royal jelly is a potential benefit in itself as the substance provides a range of essential nutrients that are necessary for good health. Royal jelly comprises:

• water (50 to 60 percent)
• proteins (18 percent)
• carbohydrates (15 percent)
• lipids (3 to 6 percent)
• mineral salts (1.5 percent)

There are small amounts of vitamins and minerals in royal jelly, including several types of vitamin B. It also contains some polyphenols, which are a type of plant-based chemical that is rich in antioxidants.

Royal jelly may provide relief from the symptoms of menopause.

A 2011 study looked at the effect of a combination of four natural ingredients, including royal jelly, on menstrual symptoms. The researchers gave 120 women either a capsule containing the four ingredients or a placebo twice a day over 4 weeks.

The women in both groups noted a reduction in symptoms, but those who took the capsule had significantly better results than those in the placebo group.

A more recent study found that taking 150 milligrams of royal jelly daily over 3 months could help improve cholesterol levels in healthy postmenopausal women.

Royal jelly may also be beneficial for people with premenstrual syndrome.

In a 2014 study, the investigators gave 110 participants either a royal jelly capsule or a placebo once every day over two menstrual cycles. The participants who took the royal jelly capsules had less severe premenstrual syndrome symptoms over the 2 months.

According to some research, royal jelly could speed up the process of wound healing.

The results of a laboratory study in the journal Nutrition Research and Practice showed that royal jelly might significantly increase the movement of fibroblasts to a wound. Fibroblasts are a type of cell that coordinates the process of wound healing.

There is some evidence that royal jelly may have benefits for people with type 2 diabetes.

In one study, 50 female participants with type 2 diabetes received either a 1-gram dose of royal jelly gel or a placebo once a day for 8 weeks.

The results indicated that taking royal jelly may lead to a reduction in the level of blood glucose. Lower glucose levels in the blood are beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.

However, the researchers note that more studies with a larger number of participants are necessary.

Share on PinterestIf a person has excessive itching or hives after taking royal jelly, they should consult a doctor.

Royal jelly is a natural remedy, and, therefore, it is not subject to regulation by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

In fact, there is no formal safety assessment of royal jelly by the FDA or any other regulatory body. As a result, the contents of royal jelly products may vary.

A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) says that it is possible for royal jelly to cause allergic reactions in some people. People with asthma or other allergies may have a higher risk of a reaction.

It is essential to consult a doctor if any of the following symptoms occur after taking royal jelly:

• hives
• excessive itching
• wheezing or other breathing problems
• digestive issues, such as abdominal pain or diarrhea
• dizziness or confusion
• nausea
• vomiting

Royal jelly may also interact with certain medications, such as blood pressure drugs. It is advisable to consult a doctor before taking royal jelly to avoid any harmful interactions.

Royal jelly can come in different forms. It is possible to take royal jelly orally or to apply it directly to the skin.

The production of fresh royal jelly may result in a gel-like substance, but other types of royal jelly are freeze-dried. It can also come in powder form within a pill or capsule, which may contain other filler ingredients.

While there are no formal guidelines regarding dosage, it is vital to start with very small amounts of royal jelly. People should stop using royal jelly immediately if they have an allergic reaction.

There are very few high-quality studies on royal jelly, and much of the existing research is in animals. Far more research is necessary to determine whether or not these health claims are valid.

People may take royal jelly safely in moderate amounts, but they should stop using it immediately if there is any sign of a reaction.

12 Potential Health Benefits of Royal Jelly

Royal jelly is a gelatinous substance produced by honey bees to feed the queen bees and their young.

It’s frequently sold as a dietary supplement to treat a variety of physical ailments and chronic diseases.

While it has long been used in traditional medicine, its applications in Western medicine remain controversial.

Here are 12 potential benefits of royal jelly.

1. Contains a Variety of Nutrients

Royal jelly is comprised of water, carbs, protein and fat (1).

The full chemical makeup of royal jelly is unknown, but its positive effects on health are thought to stem from its unique proteins and fatty acids (1, 2).

These include nine glycoproteins collectively known as major royal jelly proteins (MRJPs) and two fatty acids, trans-10-Hydroxy-2-decenoic acid and 10-Hydroxydecanoic acid (2).

Royal jelly also contains several B vitamins and trace minerals.

However, nutrient composition varies considerably between sources of royal jelly (1).

Some of the vitamins typically present in royal jelly include:

• Thiamine (B1)
• Riboflavin (B2)
• Pantothenic acid (B5)
• Pyridoxine (B6)
• Niacin (B3)
• Folic acid (B9)
• Inositol (B8)
• Biotin (B7)

These nutrients may provide some of royal jelly’s potential health benefits, though more research on this unique substance is needed.

Summary Royal jelly contains water, carbs, protein, fat, B vitamins and trace minerals. Its unique proteins and fatty acids may be the reason for its potential health benefits.

2. May Provide Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Royal jelly is widely claimed to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

In multiple test-tube and animal studies, specific amino acids, fatty acids and phenolic compounds found in royal jelly appear to have potent antioxidant effects (3).

Additionally, several test-tube studies show reduced levels of pro-inflammatory chemicals released from immune cells treated with royal jelly (4, 5, 6).

While these results are promising, human studies are lacking. More data is needed to draw any definitive conclusions on treating inflammation with royal jelly.

Summary Some animal and test-tube studies indicate royal jelly may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. However, comprehensive research does not exist.

3. May Reduce Heart Disease Risk by Impacting Cholesterol Levels

Both animal and human studies demonstrate that royal jelly may positively impact cholesterol levels and thereby reduce heart disease risk.

Though the exact mechanism remains unclear, specific proteins in royal jelly may help lower cholesterol (7).

One 12-week study found that rabbits supplemented with royal jelly significantly reduced their total and “bad” LDL cholesterol levels by 28% and 23%, respectively (8).

Similarly, a one-month human study saw an 11% and 4% reduction in total and “bad” LDL cholesterol levels in people taking about 3 grams of royal jelly daily (9).

Conversely, another small human study determined no significant differences in cholesterol levels between participants treated with royal jelly and those on a placebo (10).

While these studies are promising, more research is needed to better understand royal jelly’s impact on heart health.

Summary Some animal and human research has shown reduced cholesterol levels with royal jelly supplements. However, more studies are needed to confirm these results.

4. May Aid Wound Healing and Skin Repair

Royal jelly — both used orally and topically — may support wound healing and other inflammatory skin conditions.

It’s known to have an antibacterial effect, which can keep wounds clean and free from infection (11).

One animal study revealed an increase in collagen production in rats given royal jelly extract. Collagen is a structural protein vital for skin repair (12).

A test-tube study showed significantly enhanced tissue repair capacity in human cells treated with royal jelly (13).

Conversely, a more recent human study did not notice any difference in wound healing between a control group and participants treating diabetic foot ulcers topically with royal jelly (14).

Ultimately, more research is needed on royal jelly’s effects on wound healing and tissue repair.

Summary Some research indicates that royal jelly may enhance production of proteins involved in tissue repair. However, more research is needed.

5. Specific Proteins May Lower Blood Pressure

Royal jelly may protect your heart and circulatory system by reducing blood pressure.

Several test-tube studies indicate that specific proteins in royal jelly relax smooth muscle cells in your veins and arteries, thereby lowering blood pressure (15).

A recent animal study examined a supplement combining royal jelly with other bee-derived substances and found a significant reduction in blood pressure. However, the exact role royal jelly played in this supplement is unclear (16).

More research is needed to understand royal jelly’s relationship with blood pressure.

Summary While early research indicates that specific proteins in royal jelly may lower blood pressure, more research is needed.

6. Regulates Blood Sugar by Reducing Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Royal jelly may also improve blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.

Multiple animal studies showed increased insulin sensitivity and an apparent protective effect on pancreatic, liver and reproductive tissue in obese, diabetic rats treated with royal jelly (17, 18, 19).

One small six-month human study demonstrated a 20% reduction in fasting blood sugar in healthy people who supplemented daily with royal jelly (10).

However, research on this topic is limited.

Summary Multiple animal studies indicate that royal jelly may increase insulin sensitivity and improve blood sugar control. However, human-based research is limited.

7. Antioxidant Properties May Support Healthy Brain Function

Royal jelly may boost brain function.

One study revealed that stress-induced mice treated with royal jelly had lower levels of stress hormones and a more robust central nervous system than the control group (20).

A separate study resulted in improved memory and reduced symptoms of depression in postmenopausal rats given royal jelly (21).

Another animal study showed that rats treated with royal jelly were better able to remove certain chemical deposits in the brain associated with Alzheimer’s disease (8).

Most of these studies attribute the protective effect on brain and nervous tissue to royal jelly’s antioxidant capacity.

Though this data is encouraging, human research is needed.

Summary Multiple animal studies indicate that royal jelly may benefit brain function, though human research is lacking.

8. May Increase Tear Secretion And Treat Chronic Dry Eyes

Royal jelly may treat dry eyes when taken orally.

One animal and one small human study showed improvements in chronic dry eyes for those treated orally with royal jelly. The results indicate that this bee-derived substance may increase tear secretion from lacrimal glands within your eyes (22, 23).

No adverse effects were reported from the human study. Thus, royal jelly could serve as a low-risk solution for chronic dry eyes.

Keep in mind that this very small data sample doesn’t indicate that royal jelly is able to treat most people’s dry eyes. Ultimately, more research is needed.

Summary A small amount of data shows that royal jelly may increase tear secretion in people with chronic dry eyes. However, further studies are necessary.

9. May Provide Anti-Aging Effects Through Various Means

Royal jelly may slow the aging process in several ways.

A few studies show increased lifespan and improved cognitive performance in rats treated orally with royal jelly (24).

Royal jelly is sometimes included in topical skin care products to support maintenance of healthy, younger-looking skin.

Animal research indicates that royal jelly may support increased collagen production and protection from skin damage associated with UV radiation exposure (12, 25).

Since human research on the anti-aging benefits of oral or topical royal jelly use is insufficient, more studies are needed.

Summary Royal jelly may reduce some common symptoms of aging, but research is lacking.

10. May Support a Healthy Immune System

Royal jelly may enhance your body’s natural immune response to foreign bacteria and viruses (26).

MRJPs and fatty acids in royal jelly are known to promote antibacterial activity, which can reduce incidence of infection and support immune function (11).

However, most applicable data is limited to animal and test-tube research. Therefore, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects.

Summary Some animal and test-tube research supports antimicrobial effects of royal jelly and indicates this substance may boost your immune system. However, human studies are lacking.

11. Reduces Side Effects of Cancer Treatment

Chemotherapy and other cancer treatments come with significant negative side effects, including heart failure, inflammation and gastrointestinal (GI) issues.

Royal jelly may reduce some of the negative side effects associated with certain cancer treatments.

One study revealed a significant reduction in chemotherapy-induced heart damage in rats supplemented with royal jelly (27).

One very small human study indicated that topically applied royal jelly may prevent mucositis, a cancer treatment side effect that causes painful ulcerations in your digestive tract (28).

Though encouraging, these studies don’t offer definitive conclusions regarding royal jelly’s role in cancer treatment. More research is warranted.

Summary Royal jelly may treat certain side effects caused by cancer treatment. However, more research is needed.

12. May Treat Certain Symptoms of Menopause

Royal jelly may also treat symptoms associated with menopause.

Menopause causes a reduction in circulating hormones that is associated with physical and mental side effects, such as pain, impaired memory, depression and anxiety.

One study found royal jelly effective at reducing depression and improving memory in postmenopausal rats (21).

Another study in 42 postmenopausal women noticed that supplementing daily with 800 mg of royal jelly for 12 weeks was effective in reducing back pain and anxiety (29).

Keep in mind that more research is needed.

Summary Royal jelly may effectively treat menopause symptoms, though more research is needed.

Dosage and Supplement Forms

Because research is relatively limited, a definitive recommended dosage for royal jelly hasn’t been established.

When taken as a dietary supplement, royal jelly is available in its natural state — a gel-like substance — or in powder or capsule form.

Benefits have been observed in a wide range of dosages. Current research supports possible benefits at 300–6,000 mg per day (30).

Royal jelly can also be applied topically to your skin and is sometimes included in commercially available skin care products.

If you’ve never used royal jelly before, it’s best to start with a very small dose to avoid serious allergic reactions and side effects.

Summary There is no official recommended dosage for royal jelly. Current research indicates possible benefits at 300–6,000 mg per day.

Risks and Side Effects

Though probably safe for most, royal jelly is not without risks.

Because it’s a bee product, people with allergies to bee stings, pollen or other environmental allergens should exercise caution.

Some environmental contaminants, such as pesticides, have also been found in royal jelly and could lead to allergic reactions (2).

While using royal jelly is likely safe for most people, serious adverse reactions have occasionally been reported. These include (2):

• Asthma
• Anaphylaxis
• Contact dermatitis

Some of these extreme reactions could even be fatal.

Summary Though generally considered safe, royal jelly may lead to serious allergic reactions.

The Bottom Line

While royal jelly has been used in ancient medicinal practices for centuries, it has been largely rejected by Western medical practitioners due to a lack of research.

Nonetheless, this bee product — which is different than honey — is still frequently used as an alternative treatment for a variety of physical and mental ailments.

To date, many of the health claims associated with royal jelly remain unproven. The bulk of available research is limited to animal and test-tube or very small human studies.

Ingesting royal jelly is not 100% risk-free. Serious side effects such as anaphylaxis have occasionally been reported.

Though current research is promising, more research is needed to determine how royal jelly may fit into a healthy lifestyle.

Royal jelly – useful properties

Connoisseurs of nature were worried about the thought. How is it possible that the same fertilized bee egg after 21 days will turn into a worker bee (a female unable to fertilize and lay eggs), and from another – after 16 days – a large, fully developed female, able to fertilize and lay eggs created.

The answer to these riddles is royal jelly, the Queen Mother’s food. Young worker bees secrete a gelatinous cream-colored substance with a tart taste in the throat glands. It is royal jelly that is used to feed the larvae of worker bees and drones during the first 3 days of their life. But the queen bee fed all her life. Royal jelly allows you to produce bees from the same eggs – workers and mothers, that the uterus lives 4-6 years, and the working one – 30-35 days.

What does royal jelly contain?

The chemical composition of royal jelly fed to queen bees is very rich. It includes, among other things, sex hormones, which significantly affects the rate of development of larvae, size, fertility and lifespan. Usually, about 100 g of royal jelly is obtained in one colony during the season from May to the end of July. Royal jelly resembles mammalian milk in the form of a thick paste that varies in color from light cream to light yellow. It is characterized by a tart sour taste and a specific pungent odor, heavier than water, has an acid reaction (pH in the range of 3. 4 – 4.3). It dissolves well in ethyl alcohol, acetone and ether.

Collection and storage of royal jelly

Milk is obtained from queen cells from mid-May to the end of July. Beekeepers use various methods of bee mobilization to rear young queen bees to increase the production of royal jelly in the hive. 2-3 day old larvae are fed so abundantly that they “swim” in milk. Thus, the bees feed a dozen or several dozen larvae. From five such cells, about one gram of milk is collected. Royal jelly is an unstable product, it turns yellow and dries quickly when stored at ambient temperature, and its biological activity is reduced due to the decomposition of many components. Bees consume milk regularly, so they do not store it for a long time.

Fresh milk is sensitive to light and high temperatures. In an airtight container, it retains its properties for several days at room temperature. It can be stored in the refrigerator at 0-5°C for up to one year. Milk can be preserved with alcohol. The most commonly used solution is 10% milk in 40% ethyl alcohol. The creation of such a mixture allows you to store the finished product in a sealed vessel in a dark place for one year. An alternative is canned royal jelly with honey. To prepare the mixture, add milk to liquid honey in an amount of 0.5% to 5%, mix thoroughly and for a long time. The most effective mixture was considered honey with the addition of 2% royal jelly. It can be stored in a dark place for a year, and in the refrigerator even longer. Adsorption on powdered lactose gives good results. However, the best preservation method is freeze-drying, which allows storage at 0-15°C for up to 5 years.

The action of bee milk

One of the most important biological properties of royal jelly is the enhancement of metabolic processes and tissue renewal. This product enhances protein metabolism, increases the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin levels. It is assumed that the ions of iron and zinc, which are part of its composition, largely contribute to this. During the studies, the subjects experienced rapid weight gain, increased vitality, accelerated puberty, increased reproductive activity and life extension by about 30% compared to control groups. Animal studies show that royal jelly is a nutritious food that is well absorbed by the body. These values ​​are due to the presence of compounds such as amino acids, sugars, vitamins, bioelements, enzymes and free fatty acids.

Studies have shown that royal jelly accelerates the recovery of soft tissues, reducing the healing time of wounds and burns. It also affected the renewal of cells responsible for bone tissue healing and prevented bone decalcification after severe fractures. This led to the fact that bone fractures in experimental rabbits healed almost 3 times faster than in control animals.

Royal jelly also has antibacterial properties. The fresh product has a bacteriostatic effect by inhibiting the growth of bacteria at a concentration of 20 mg / ml, and at a concentration of 100 mg / ml it has a bactericidal effect. It acts on both Staphylococcus aureus and split pneumonia, anthrax and tuberculosis bacilli, and E. coli.

It has been found to inhibit the growth of pathogenic yeasts and moulds. In addition, it is known to be active against influenza, mumps and herpes viruses, as well as against protozoa. 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid and royalisin are mainly responsible for the antimicrobial activity.

Royal jelly is good for the heart and circulatory system. Animal experiments show that it accelerates the recovery of necrotic heart tissue after experimental infarction. In addition, it counteracts artificially induced arrhythmias in the heart muscle.

Its action on the blood vessels is twofold. On the one hand, it clearly reduces blood pressure, which is associated with the presence of acetylcholine in it, and on the other hand, it increases it by increasing the secretion of adrenaline. Based on this, it can be assumed that it has the effect of normalizing pressure. Moreover, in experimental animals it has a strong anti-atherosclerotic effect.

The significant effect of royal jelly on the hematopoietic system is often emphasized. Especially small doses of this product, up to 10 mg per day, increase the volume of red blood cells and the level of hemoglobin contained in them, as well as iron in the blood serum.

Animal studies show that parenteral administration of royal jelly stimulates the immune system, thereby increasing the body’s resistance to infection. Despite this, it was found that in diseases caused by autoimmune aggression, that is, self-destruction of organs and tissues, it reduces the production of antibodies against its own cells. Based on this, it can be assumed that it regulates the body’s defenses.

Royal jelly has properties that protect against harmful ionizing radiation, which is mainly due to the presence of 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid in it.

Pharmacological studies show that it has a beneficial effect on the central nervous system. Increases the activity of the cerebral cortex. This action is caused, among other things, by gamma-aminobutyric acid, which plays an important role in the conduction of nerve impulses. As a result, milk causes stimulation and a state of physical and mental recovery.

Other properties of royal jelly include its anti-diabetic effect, prevention of gout and protection of liver tissue from poisoning by toxic substances.

Medicinal properties and uses in medicine

Royal jelly is widely used in dermatology. It is recommended for the treatment of difficult to heal wounds, including bedsores and burns, with seborrhea and seborrheic eczema, impetigo of the hands and feet. It is also recommended for the treatment of seborrheic and dental alopecia. A good therapeutic effect is achieved after drinking milk with inflammation of the mucous membrane of the mouth, throat, tongue and gums, as well as with herpes.

Increases the body’s resistance to infections. It has an immunoregulatory effect. It causes a significant increase in the body’s resistance to infections by stimulating the production of macrophages and γ-globulin. Due to their immunological properties, they are used in diseases caused by autoimmune aggression, such as glomerulonephritis, atopic (allergic) bronchial asthma and rheumatic diseases.

In children, royal jelly is used to treat anemia caused by iron deficiency. Increases the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin content.

Royal jelly is used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases such as angina pectoris, neurosis, post-infarction conditions, arterial hypertension, cerebral embolism, atherosclerosis (dilates blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, increases the flexibility of blood vessels). Favorable results are achieved in the treatment of inflammation of the veins and hemorrhages of vascular origin.

Oral royal jelly has a beneficial effect in coronary heart disease, coronary atherosclerosis and in the rehabilitation period after myocardial infarction. For example, taking 100 mg of royal jelly per day eliminated pain in more than 70% of patients with coronary heart disease in just a month. In addition, there was a decrease in the level of lipids and cholesterol in the blood serum.

Good results have been obtained with royal jelly in patients with arterial hypertension and cardiac arrhythmia. It is also successfully used in spastic conditions of the vertebral arteries and cerebral embolism.

Royal jelly is also used for the prevention and treatment of diseases of the digestive tract and internal organs. Duodenal ulcers are particularly sensitive to the effects of this product. It is used in patients with symptoms of colitis and in the treatment of various inflammations of the gallbladder, pancreas and liver. It protects liver tissue from various types of toxic substances. It is used to treat the effects of alcoholism and to prevent cirrhosis of the liver. Effectively lowers blood glucose levels.

It is also used to treat kidney and adrenal insufficiency. It has a diuretic effect, which helps in the treatment of obesity. It is useful in the treatment of ovarian failure and infectious diseases such as brucellosis and influenza. Royal jelly has also proven beneficial in the treatment of certain respiratory conditions. Milk contributes to the renewal of the bronchial mucosa and promotes better penetration of drugs into the lower respiratory tract. In addition, it is very helpful in the prevention of colds.

Royal jelly is successfully used in rheumatic diseases, including rheumatic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis of the spine, osteoarthritis, as well as neuralgia, migraine and post-traumatic pain.

Use in cosmetics

Royal jelly is also widely used in cosmetics. Due to its skin renewal properties, it is an important ingredient in creams, lotions and care and nourishment lotions for dry, normal and oily skin. Creams and balms with royal jelly stimulate cellular metabolism and normalize the secretion of the sebaceous glands. Milk has a beneficial tonic effect on the skin, and also improves its hydration and elasticity. Its content in cosmetic preparations ranges from 0.5 to 10%.

Milk dosage

Royal jelly is available from pharmacies, herbalists and health food stores. It is available in the form of lozenges, capsules and syrup. Preparations containing royal jelly are administered orally, sublingually (this method is considered the most effective). The recommended doses are 50 to 300 mg for an adult, half the dose for children. Use in the morning, 1 hour before breakfast or 2-3 hours after dinner.

Pure milk is best taken sublingually (hold under the tongue for a few minutes) after rinsing the mouth. The course of treatment should last from 3-4 weeks to two months and be repeated once or twice a year. It is recommended to carry out two procedures a year with a preventive purpose, supporting the milk with pollen. A mixture of honey and milk (2 grams of milk per 200 grams of honey). Use a teaspoon of the mixture twice a day. Time: an hour before meals and 2-3 hours after dinner. Use canned milk twice a day, 15-20 drops per tablespoon of warm water, one hour before meals and 2-3 hours after dinner. You can buy a mixture of honey with royal jelly at the link.

Royal jelly: useful properties and contraindications

The content of the article:

• Description and healing properties of royal jelly
• When should you use royal jelly
• How to take and store
• Precautions and contraindications when taking royal jelly

Royal jelly, or, as it is also called, “royal jelly”, is one of the most amazing products of beekeeping. The value of this substance cannot be overestimated. It is used to treat numerous diseases and prevent the appearance of disorders in the body. But before you start using milk, read this article and get acquainted with its healing properties and contraindications.

Description and healing properties of royal jelly

A valuable and amazing product of bee production is used by insects to feed young bee larvae, which will subsequently take their place in the hierarchy of industriousness. Milk is characterized by high biological activity. The mass has a thick texture, creamy hue, honey aroma and sour taste. And it has a unique composition!

Royal Jelly contains:

• proteins fats carbohydrates;
• active enzymes;
• some amino acids;
• various trace elements and mineral salts;
• vitamins E, PP and group B;
• hormones and other substances.

But most of the biomass (almost 60% of the composition) is moisture. And 5 percent of the composition of the natural “elixir” remains a mystery.

An interesting fact. Royal jelly is produced by young nurse bees, who secrete it with the help of special glands made from bee bread and honey. Bee larvae receive “royal jelly” during the first three days of life. But the queen bee (the main female of the hive) feeds on it constantly. According to scientists, this explains the huge difference in life expectancy between worker bees and queen bees. The former live on average 70-80 days, the latter – up to 7 years. This is despite the fact that genetically they are the same species. Man, of course, is not a bee. But royal jelly has a beneficial effect on our body.

Milk is not only food for young bees and queens. It is widely used in medicine to fight a large number of diseases. The product can also be used in everyday life. Regular use of biomass has a positive effect on the functioning of the immune system, helps to prolong youth, increase mental activity. In addition, royal jelly normalizes blood pressure, improves the condition of blood and blood vessels, activates the process of intellectual and physical development.

The biomass of bee production is widely used in cosmetology. In particular, royal jelly helps to effectively deal with skin imperfections such as acne, psoriasis, neurodermatitis, prolongs the youthfulness of the dermis and improves its condition. The use of the substance is recommended for anorexia, decreased tone, insufficient lactation.

When should royal jelly be used?

Royal jelly should be taken in case of:

• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;

• high cholesterol;

• diseases of the blood and blood-forming organs;

• elevated glucose levels;

• general weakening of the body after illness;

• the onset of menopause in women;

• seasonal drop in the level of immunity in the cold season.

Also, “royal jelly” is recommended for use in diseases of the nervous system, including in case of nervous exhaustion. A unique set of vitamins, acids and microelements contained in royal jelly contribute to the improvement of the general condition of the central and peripheral nervous system of adults and children.

How to take and store the remedy?

It often happens that royal jelly is taken orally. This is mistake! The acid contained in the human stomach neutralizes a significant part of the healing properties of the bee product. To get the maximum effect, the required amount of funds is placed under the tongue and waiting for dissolution. With this technique, valuable components are quickly absorbed into the blood through the vessels located on the back of the tongue.

A few tips for taking royal jelly:

• the recommended amount per day for an adult is 1 ml;

• the total volume is divided into 3-4 servings and taken throughout the day;

• milk contains tonic components, so the last dose should be no later than 18 pm.

As a rule, the duration of the course is 14 days. A month later, you can start a second course. And during the year to conduct 4-6 courses.

The unique components that royal jelly contains are sensitive to temperature and sunlight. If stored incorrectly, they quickly break down. To preserve the healing properties, the necessary conditions should be provided. In particular, the product should be stored in a freezer at -20 ℃. It is very convenient to do this in insulin syringes, the volume of which is 1 ml. Low temperatures stop the process of destruction of vitamins, acids and other ingredients, therefore, in this form, the bee product will retain its benefits for a year or more.

In the evening, on the eve of the reception, 1 syringe is moved to the refrigerator. Overnight, the royal jelly will thaw and be ready to eat. During the day, the bee product must be stored in the refrigerator.

Precautions and contraindications when taking royal jelly

With all its positive effects and benefits, royal jelly also has harm. Bee “drug” can cause dizziness, rash and itching of the skin, redness and nausea. These side effects that occur during the use of royal jelly indicate individual intolerance to the component by a person. “Elixir” is contraindicated in persons with an allergic reaction to any type of bee products and the ingredients they may contain.