The battle of superfoods: Propolis vs Pollen

Propolis or Pollen? Nature has the power to shield the body with superfoods that improve body’s functions, help defend against pathogenic microorganisms, stimulate and boost with energy.

Nutritional value

Propolis

Propolis is classified according to the place and the plants from which it originates. Its main ingredients are resin, essential oils, wax and pollen, while it also contains hundreds of chemical compounds (terpenes, aliphatic acids, flavones, minerals, vitamins and trace elements) that give it a high nutritional value. Its composition is determined by its geographical origin, such as European propolis or Brazilian propolis, as well as its color, brown-yellowish, green and red. What distinguishes propolis species from one another is their nutritional value. In particular, the brown-yellow propolis is rich in flavonoids and is particularly indicated for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Green propolis has more phenolic compounds, is produced mainly in temperate countries and has anti-cancer, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Finally, red propolis is produced in tropical regions and is unique for the combination of lignans and isoflavones it contains.

Pollen

Pollen also derives from many different plants, so its nutritional value is just as rich as propolis. According to studies, it contains over 200 substances, such as amino acids, vitamins, flavonoids, enzymes and macronutrients (carbohydrates, lipids and proteins) and is a component of propolis. In particular, it contains vitamins of B complex, vitamin C, alpha-linolenic acid, linoleic acid and it is a rich source of carotenoids and polyphenols. Thanks to its rich composition it has many biological properties that make it one of the most distinct natural products.

Actions & Benefits

Propolis

Studies have shown that propolis has antioxidant activity, antiviral activity, antifungal and bacteriostatic properties, immune-boosting activity, anti-inflammatory properties and has a potential anti-cancer effect. In particular, it has been found to enhance the body’s defense against viral and bacterial infections and contributes to the prevention and treatment of viruses, sore throat, pharyngitis and sinusitis. According to laboratory studies, propolis inhibits the proliferation of P. acnes, a bacterium responsible for the appearance of acne as well as oral herpes due to HSV1 (Herpes Simplex Virus -1). The strong anti-inflammatory effect of propolis is attributed to its high flavonoid composition. Brazilian propolis has strong anti-inflammatory activity due to a substance called Artepillin C. Due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, propolis reduces oxidative stress and microbial proliferation in open wounds, thus accelerating healing. Many natural oral hygiene products contain propolis. In particular, the use of propolis toothpaste helps in the treatment of gingivitis and mouth ulcers and has a positive effect on oral micro-flora.

Pollen

Many studies have highlighted the benefits of taking pollen to treat various diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, hypertension and probably cancer. Thanks to its rich composition in enzymatic hydrolases, flavonoids and phenolic components, pollen inactivates free radicals, thus protecting cells from oxidative damage. Pollen reduces blood lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides) as well as platelet aggregation, thus preventing the occurrence of atherosclerosis and strokes. Pollen extracts have been shown to have potent antimicrobial activity. In particular, it has been found to be effective in fighting pathogenic microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacterias and the fungus Candida albicans. Its antibacterial and antifungal activity is due to its composition in flavonoids and phenolic acids. Pollen, thanks to the polyphenols it contains, has been shown to protect liver cells from toxicity, heavy metals and liver damage. It also appears to protect certain cells of the body from the effects of histamine that is the main trigger for allergy.

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In conclusion

Rather hard to distinguish between two is more beneficial, as their actions complement each other or are identical. Whichever you choose you will boost your body with a natural health guard.