Royal jelly

From Free net encyclopedia

Royal jelly is a type of bee secretion that aids in the development of immature or young bees. It is secreted by the heads of young workers and used (amongst other substances) to feed the young until they develop to the desired rank. If a queen is desired, the hatchling will receive only royal jelly as its food source, in order that she will become sexually mature and have the fully developed ovaries needed to lay more eggs for the hive.

1 Cultivation
2 Composition
3 Uses
4 Potential Side Effects
5 Scientific Research
6 Controversies
7 See also
- 7.1 Literature
- 7.2 Science Fiction
8 References
9 External links

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Cultivation

A device is fitted on to the entrance of the hive which scrapes the secretion off the bees as they enter. This product is combined with honey for preservation, as it spoils easily. It should be kept refrigerated and tightly sealed.

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Composition

Royal jelly is comprised of 60-70 percent water, 12-15 percent protein, 10-16 percent sugars, and 3-6 percent fats, with the remainder being made of: vitamins B-complex, vitamin B₅, a high concentration of pantothenic acid (vitamin B₅) and vitamin B₆ (pyridoxine), acetylcholine, minerals, enzymes, hormones, eighteen amino acids, antibacterial and antibiotic components, and vitamins A, C, D and E.

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Uses

Royal jelly is reputed to have a number of benefits. In addition to its use as a dietary supplement, the following benefits are claimed:

Enhance immunity
Prevent arthritis and multiple sclerosis
Treat asthma
Slow the signs of aging
Stimulate hair growth
Improve sexual performance
Reduce symptoms of menopause
Heal bone fractures
Lower cholesterol
Alleviate cardiovascular ailments
Remedy liver disease, pancreatitis, insomnia, fatigue, ulcers, and digestive and skin disorders

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Potential Side Effects

Individuals who are allergic to bees and honey, and those who have asthma, can face real dangers if they take royal jelly. Reactions ranging from bronchial spasms, skin irritations, and asthma attacks, to more severe anaphylactic shock, and even death, have been reported from its ingestion. Individuals with compromised immune systems should also be aware. Consult your Doctor before taking this, or any other substance you even remotely suspect may cause death.

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Scientific Research

Unfortunately, good evidence does not exist for any of these purported health claims. Although studies with rabbits and rats showed a reduction in their cholesterol levels, and some human trials found a lowering of the bad LDL cholesterol levels, these reports have not been published, so it is impossible to evaluate their validity.

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