Honey

Introduction

“Honey stabilizes the immune system and gives top-performance to athletes.

This is how the book written by the famous German television doctor, Dr. Guenter Gerhardt begins the chapter on honey in his book Gentle Medicine – a critical directory through alternative healing methods (Ein kritischer Wegweiser durch alternative Heilverfahren – Kilian Verlag,
Marburg 2000. Not available in English).

The origin of honey is nectar or honey-dew, both substances containing water and sugar components mixed with vitamins and mineral substances as well as aroma. In folk medicine, honey has for a long time been known to have an anti-bacterial effect; nowadays known as the so-called inhibines. Dussmann believes that the enzyme
glucoseoxidase is generally responsible for this. This enzyme leads to the active ingredient hydrogen-superoxide in diluted honey solutions. Other authors assume flavonoids and phenolic acid as being the active ingredients. Others again represent the opinion that due to honey’s high osmolarity, there is an anti-bacterial effect.

The sugar components are reduced in the honey stomachs of the bees to simple sugars (fructose and glucose) in the presence of enzymes. Due to the fact that sugar contains little raw sugar and the already mentioned inhibines are effective, there is little calorie-risk for the honey eater.

In further processing steps, probably within the hive, further substances are added to the honey such as acetylcholine and the water content decreases immensely due to evaporation.

For a long time honey was the only possibility for sweetening, but meanwhile with the use of sugar-cane, sugar-beet and the artificial sweeteners it has lost its pride position. Nevertheless Germans eat the most honey of all Europeans (1.5 kg/person/year) so that supply from German production can only be covered to 25%. The result is an active import of to some degree low-grade honey from the far-east which has not met the general quality standards and in the past has lead to headlines due to anti-biotic residue.

In the “Lebensmittelbrief” 9/10 2000 (Nutrition letters) it was made clear to what effort food-stuff safety was and is carried out in Europe. Extensive controls of the original substances for herbicides or heavy metals, the controlling of the hygienic situation through lawful and directly responsible efforts as well as a precautionary orientated system of the food-stuff security did not give the consumer any reason to doubt the quality of the honey. This is surely justified when honey products are used for the production of food supplements, controls during and at the end of production take place.

But back to the uses:

Apparantly honey and liver were suggested for use in China 1500 B.C. for treating night blindness (Biesalski).

Warm milk and honey was considered a proven substance for sore throats in folk medicine and honey products were much appreciated in pediatrics, so that instructions for the production of Mel rosatum or Mel foeniculi were contained in both Hager’s handbook as well as in the DAB 5 (Deutsches Arzneimittelbuch = German pharmaceutical book). In the next chapter the effort will be made to summarize the old and the new knowledge about honey.

The Use of Honey in the
Framework of Folk Medicine

Honey to regulate intestinal functioning

Many lovers of honey have been able to experience that honey is able to affect intestinal functioning in various directions, both diarrhoea and constipation improve. Theoretically it can be deduced that e.g. acetylcholine stimulates intestinal activity and at the same time secretion is increased by the action of the aromatic substances. On the other hand fructose improves constipation and the potassium included in small amounts could increase the effect additionally. Strictly speaking, it seems that honey supports the function of the intestinal flora so that a normality in peristaltic can occur. This is of special significance in the case of influenza.

The Use of Honey for Uncomplicated Influenza

Here honey is usually used together with warm milk or tea.
The reason for such positive effects could be the inhibines, natural flavours, iron and vitamin C. In connection to this it is very important to note that the inhibines lose their activity if they are heated too much.

The accompanying symptoms of influenza (sore throat, total exhaustion, bone pain etc.) are apparently positively influenced. At the same time a restful sleep is induced. This could be the result of the effect of acetylcholine on the ganglions of the sympathetic/parasympathetic nervous system.

Naturally it is a good idea to combine honey with phytogenic remedies to increase the effect (essential oils of peppermint or thyme). Peppermint oil is good for both head-aches and, rubbed on the circulation zone (according to Mandel) it supports the circulatory system especially at the start of a viral infection. Not to be forgotten is the effect of essential oils on the whole organism (in the sense of “aroma therapy”). Here the use of the “Wildkraeuter Oel“(wild herb oil) has proven its worth (Co. St. Johanser, Germany).

Honey as a Restorative and Tonic

Honey contains mostly glucose and fructose i.e. sugars which can be metabolized with little insulin secretion, so that honey contains a low glycaemic index similar to fruit and vegetables. This means that the blood glucose level only rises slightly, but giving enough energy for the functioning of the organism. This even has positive effects on the fat metabolism. Surprisingly the acetylcholine contained in honey could be given a special meaning: as a physiological transmitter of the parasympathetic heart muscle cells it would be thought possible that a change in the heartbeat could lead to an economizing of the heart’s effort.

In recent times research for the causes of Alzheimer’s Disease have gained in importance. It is assumed that a deficiency in acetylcholine is the cause. This substance is of added importance for this condition.

In summary honey contains the following: vitamins of the B-group (B1 thiamin, B2 riboflavin, B3 nicotinamide, B5 pantothenic acid, B6 pyridoxine, B9 folic acid), and vitamin C, in addition many minerals such as iron and trace elements. It can understandably be speculated that an improved erythrocyte production may take place. Further minerals are calcium, potassium, chlorine, sodium, copper, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, silicon, sulphur and to a lesser degree, organic acids and an estrogen-like substance which has not yet been further characterized.

Apitherapy

Honey was already taken up into the therapeutic arsenal of the doctors by Hippocrates and the word apitherapy was formed in Greece and later taken over by the Romans which includes more than just honey therapy.

Honey was mentioned in Hildegard von Bingen’s first book, although rather negatively: “…but if someone is to eat the honeycomb with the wax then he will induce melancholia in himself…”.

When the newer studies are analyzed which show the results fpr studies clinically testing honey there are clear scientific focal points.

1. Use for wounds or burns

Generally the anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-oxidative effect of honey is seen as the prerequisite for its use in surgery. In an Indian study which compared 2x25 patients treated for burns with the local application of either honey or silver-sulphadiazine there was a clear superiority in the honey treatment in regard to the speed of healing. Similar studies also exist from New Zealand and England. In a recently revealed summarizing study the authors came to the conclusion that seven randomized studies have supported the observations of individual doctors.

2. The anti-microbial general effect and its cause

In-vitro studies have shown that inactive monocytes release TNF in the presence of honey. On the other hand Egyptian scientists assume that flavonoids and phenolic acid are responsible for the anti-microbial effect; others again say that the effect is due to osmosis. Even for multiresistances against gram-positive bacteria, honey still showed “antibiotic” effects. There is though a lesser effect of honey on enterobacteria.

3. The effect of honey on possible gastric lesions

In several papers the inhibitory effect of a 20 % honey solution on Helicobacter pylori was described and in another paper it was speculated that honey could contain a sucralfate-like substance which could prevent gastric mucous membrane lesions.

4. The contents of further studies 

… are the possible anti-tumor effects or report on the potencing effect when honey is taken with cytostatics. Unfortunately many studies only exist in Russian or other Slovakian languages, and for the older papers there is no English abstract included so that it is difficult to assess.
It should though be remembered that in East Europe and especially in Russia solid and effective research has been taking place for this substance.

Finally we should note that honey not only contains valuable building blocks for the healthy maintenance of the basal substance but protecting substances, not working in the sense of “anti”-biose, but in that they stimulate the immune system so that the basal regulation can once again optimally take place.

We can agree with Dr. Gerhardt when he:

• states that honey is a natural antibiotic and reports that in Australia tea-tree honey is on
  the official medication list
• recommends it for active athletes
• depicts honey as a valuable food to strengthen
  the immune system

Propolis

Introduction

Propolis is made by the bees by adding their own enzymes, pollen and wax to different tree resins and is used as putty for lining the hive. A comprehensive description of the contents as well as a possible standardization can be found in a summarizing article by Langer and Schilcher (DAZ 139, 1999).

The following quality demands are usually proposed for propolis, which go far beyond the demands of the BfArM (German institute for pharmaceutical and medical products ) or the monography proposed by the commission D (see Table 1):

Odor	typically aromatic
Appearance	brown wax-like mass
Ash contents	under 3%
HCl insoluble as	under 1%
Heavy metal content
Cadmium	under 0.2 ppm
Lead	under 5.0 ppm
Mercury	under 0.1 ppm
Flavonoid content	under 0.1 ppm
Identity	DC on silicongel with Grfluorescence indicator F254
Water evaporation part	under 1%

 

Propolis was for example chewed regularly by the American Indians as a gum-drop, as it lead to a refreshing mouth odor and even the urine had a pleasant aromatic note. They also used propolis to aromatize foods and drinks. It can therefore be seen that propolis is not solely for use as a medication, but also in the sense of a food supplement.

The use of propolis cannot be traced back as far as that of honey, but the Egyptian priests knew of its disinfecting properties and used it together with other substances for the balsaming of high officials.

The Greeks used propolis frequently for medical purposes and were the first to give it the name “pro-polis” as well as the expression apitherapy. Greek doctors used propolis for skin afflictions and for wound healing.
In the Roman world it was CELSUS and GALEN (who also described the cardinal symptoms of an inflammation) who gave their knowledge of propolis and other resins to those of the time. Arabians used propolis as a substance against tooth afflictions, but they mixed the original substance with olive oil.

In the new world propolis was appreciated greatly by the Incas and used for feverish infections or as a ointment to prevent amputations. Finally in Europe and Africa propolis was highly regarded by surgeons in the 19th and at the beginning of the 20th century due to its effects on infected wounds. With the discovery of antibiotics, this substance from folk medicine became more and more forgotten.
In 1967 it was Dr. Aagaard who, in his own trials and later in research gave the substance a scientific basis.

It must be noted that research of this natural product is still in the early stages. Although many pharmacologically active components have already been identified, we have to consider that the complete effect is more than the sum of the effects of the single substances. It is for a good reason that nature has even seen the advantage of redundancy (see the theme of reproduction). Although the following mentions the components, we should always remember the effect especially on the system of the basal regulation.

Propolis in Scientific Literature

Firstly known pharmacological data should be presented for propolis (Case No. 9009-62-5).

Toxicity studies on rodents have produced low values. Mice were fed 1400 mg/kg body mass of propolis for three months without any side-effects. When mice are given water-soluble propolis extracts i.v. during varying periods there is a temporary pathological change in the liver tissue, which is fully reversible though. It is understandable that new teratogenic studies are not available for this substance. Tests for mutagenic effects were negative.

People have no side effects when they are given 5g propolis/kg body mass orally over many months.

Local allergic reactions are possible though: for a healthy individual the rate lies at 0.65%, for hospitalized subjects, at 1.2-3.3%. According to notification in the National Law notices (German FDA news) of 1991, 200 cases of contact dermatitis have been cited.

The use of gas chromatography or the HPLC has been of great use to determine single substances of complex, compounded biological substances.

This method helped determine the presence of a large number of free amino acids in raw propolis as early as 1986. Arginine and proline are present to over 50%. It should be mentioned that some authors (Donadieu)
contradict this view vehemently and claim that apart from pollen (about 5%), flavonoids and aroma (about 10%) only minerals (about 5%) are contained. At present,
the most important seems to be the research of the flavonoids and of these, quercetin and galangin which are said to be both anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial.
New studies in Spain have also found flavoids and polyphenoles in blossom pollen, especially rutin, quercetin and myricetin.

In-vivo and in-vitro studies using a 13% soluble extract orally shows an influence of the synthesis
of classical inflammatory mediators. In typical inflammation models propolis acts as a non-steroid substance (rat-paw oedema, adjuvant arthritis). The effectiveness is dose-dependent and comparable with that of Diclofenac.

The release of prostaglandines, leucotrienes or histamine can be avoided by the use of propolis in animal experiments. The authors conclude that propolis could have similar qualities to cortisone, however it shows none of the known side-effects of this substance on the body’s own immunity. On the contrary, propolis is well suited to activate the immune cells.

In various papers the anti-microbial effect of propolis was tested, at the last account on 320 bacterial strains, whereby propolis showed a good anti-microbial activity especially towards Stapylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenza, but not against enterobacteria. Only in higher concentrations did it have a bactericidal effect.

The effect against Streptococcus mutans (a bacteria which supposedly attacks the dentine through the activation of glucosyltransferase) is especially interesting.

Propolis’ contents inhibit DNA as well as RNA dependent polymerases of E. coli and Streptomyces aureofaciens according to Simeth et al.

Apart from that propolis represses the HIV 1 replication, helps locally as a cream as least as well as Aciclovir for genital herpes and seems to be effective against Protista such as Trypanosomes. A combination with the usual tuberculostatica is possible for therapy-resistent TB-Bacteria. Schilcher reports on positive results with propolis on different dermatophytes. Based on his studies he comes to the conclusion that propolis shows approximately 40% of the effect in comparison to Griseofulvin. Trials with propolis on gram-positive and gram-negative bacillus showed good effects on the first and less effectiveness on the latter.

Propolis reduces the oxidative stress produced by radicals and can thereby also avoid LDL oxidation. It thus supports the effect of vitamin E and C and shows here that only a broad palette of vital substances can adequately cover the needs of the organism.

In various older papers it has been reported that there is an increase in the phagocyte activity with a corresponding rise in the Ig-M blood level so that the effect on virus and bacteria via the activation of unspecific and specific defence system can be induced.

Newer studies have shown that in the healthy, propolis only slightly activates the phagocytes whereby the typical interleucine II 1 beta and TNF alpha appear in small concentrations. There is surely no danger that propolis can induce auto-aggresive processes.

An important aspect is also the effect of propolis on wound healing. The scar formation proceeds in the presence of propolis in an orderly manner and the parallel occurring inflammation dissipates quicker thereby optimally influencing the scar thickness.

A new scientific direction deals with the influence of propolis on malignant cell transformation e.g. through viral influence. Studies are also being carried out as to propolis’ effect on certain cancer cell stems. It has been reported that apparantly renal cancer induced by nitrite acetate can be suppressed by propolis. Another study on malignant mamma cells shows that propolis has both a growth-inhibitory effect as well as encouraging the apoptosis (the continual rejection and phagocytosis of single cells in a tissue collection) of cancer cells.

Other models have also shown (liver cancerogenesis initiated by multiple carcinogenics) propolis’ anti-cancerogenic effect. Positive results were also found from studies on B16 melanomas, human sarcomas and colon cancer.

Several papers also mention a hepatoprotective as well as an anti-Helicobacter pylori effect. The anti-hyperalgesic effect of propolis is known and can be used in the form of a local ointment application (e.g. Propolisept® ointment).

Valuable constituents of propolis

Of great interest for natural practitioners are the many minerals which are contained in propolis, royal jelly and blossom pollen in varying amounts:

Chrome: increases the glucose tolerance and is involved in the lipid metabolism, for athletes it may have an ergogenic active ingredient

Iron: responsible for cellular energy supply (oxygen-production), a part of catalase, increases resistance against infection

Calcium: important for bone synthesis and a determiner for nerve impulses, it stabilizes cell membranes, is a co-factor for key enzymes such as glycolysis and lipolysis, essential for blood coagulation.

Cobalt: essential part of vitamin B12 and therefore affects haemopoiesis

Copper: copper-dependent metalloenzymes, is a
co-factor of lysyloxidasis; this enzyme is responsible for joining collagen with elastin

Manganese: constituent of many enzymes e.g. superoxidismutase. Glycosyl-transferase is responsible for an optimal proteoglycane synthesis

Nickel: increases protection against liver cirrhosis, has a stabilizing effect on nucleic acid

Silicon: Silicic acid is an important element of the basal substance and is also important for the transport of substances

Vanadium: increases the mineralization of bones and shows an insulin-like effect itself

Zinc: determining effect on the skin and mucous membranes, decreases depressive phases, increases the ripening of spermatocytes, improves night vision, supports insulin storage and release, increases the cellular and homoral immune response. Constituent of many enzymes e.g. carboanhydrasis, acts strongly as an anti-oxidans

A short word about the
amino acids arginine and proline:

Arginine is the natural substrate for the enzyme NO-synthase from which citrulline and nitrogenoxide (NO) originate. As a gas NO diffuses easily into the surrounding muscle cells and leads to a enervation of the vessel walls. Oxidative stress seems to decrease the effect of NO, vitamin C helping here. Additionally arginine appears to increase the stroke volume. Further aspects are the immune restorative effects whereby the phagocyte activity is increased and even the metastasis frequency can be influenced. Finally arginine increases the releases of growth hormones. Proline is naturally the suitable amino acid for the basal substance. Similarly to arginine, proline stimulates collagen synthesis. Of special importance is the fact that together with cystein and glutamine, proline builds the biologically active (reduced) glutathione.

Interestingly enough royal jelly and blossom pollen have a large amount of essential and non-essential amino acids apart from the many minerals and vitamins. For this reason their effects will be treated in the next chapter. There is an indirect relationship to foodstuff and a law in Germany as therein minerals, amino acids are comparable to additives, but these substances are already present in the bee products (Matricell® as food supplement).

Alleged indications for propolis in the rest of the literature

• acute and chronic inflammation in the ENT region as well as urinary tract infections of
  bacterial or viral nature
• support of the immune system during radiation
• simultaneous use with anti-microbial therapy
• support of wound healing, especially in the mouth
• local specific use for neurodermitis, dry eczema or psoriasis
• special use for herpes infections
• local use for lighter cases of a rheumatic condition (e.g. tennis elbow)
• supportive for the therapy of duodenal ulcers as well as mild liver damage due to alcohol

Assessment of the Natural Substance Propolis

Firstly the valuable assistance of the single substances for the system of basal regulation should be remembered. Apart from the typical components the trace elements have the possibility to destroy the free radicals which develop as a consequence of the oxidative stress.

For this reason there is a recommendation for debility due to overstrain, prophylactic against infections in combination with other bee products. Propolis acts here stabilizing and vitalizing on the immune system as free radicals can be checked and oxidative stress mitigated. Concentration problems and tiredness are able to be improved. The defense mechanisms of the skin and mucous membranes increase and central metabolism organs are relieved.

It is of special interest for the user that it has been found that propolis is at the most slightly toxic but for many chronic degenerative proceeding conditions it is a valuable and important support for the organism’s own healing powers. Added to this, even if it is kept for a long period of time, neither the concentration of trace elements nor the anti-bacterial effect of propolis decrease.

Royal Jelly

Introduction

More than 300 years lie between the first observations of Jan Swammerdam of the specialty of the food for the prospective queen bees via specific worker bees and the research of the ingredients of royal jelly is still going on to the present day. For a long time east European scientists were leaders in research – of the clinical as well as preclinical effect.

It is without doubt that royal jelly and blossom pollen represent valuable foodstuffs and for this reason they are contained in the food supplement Matricell® together with mead and propolis. In addition, for a long time now the varied possibilities and effects of royal jelly are used in cosmetic products in Germany. On an international scene apiarists tell of a possible life-prolonging effect of their natural product when consumed over a long period of time.

Recently there was a struggle concerning the stock of royal jelly. Reports appeared from Australia with unusual side-effects of royal jelly after use by people with hypersensitivities (esp. allergic asthma).

It is only amazing that neither the users nor natural therapists could remember such serious occurrences and even German surveillance authorities only had details regarding the risk of a bee sting. It lay near at hand that environmental peculiarities a major cause in the sudden appearance. Natural therapists in Germany knew of various risks and recommended the affected patients that if they were to take royal jelly, then only in their symptom-free phases. All the experts were concerned about composing a rational use-risk analysis.

As even old studies from France have shown, royal jelly is an optimal possibility to receive vitamins, enzymes and trace elements by a natural product due to its content. A certain point hindering some to the product was its relatively sour taste so that royal jelly is for this reason generally mixed with honey.

Constituents of Royal Jelly

In a first raw classification royal jelly contains about 66% water, 14.5% carbohydrates, 4.5% fats and 13% proteids. Also contained are minerals and vitamins mainly of the B-group, only in small quantities the vitamins C, D, E as well as provitamin A. Acetylcholine, phytosteroids (not further defined), pollen corns and various antibacterial factors.

Of greatest importance for the consumer is probably the surprisingly high content of essential and non-essential amino acids whose role will be described in the following section.

L-alanine: plays and important role for liver and cerebral metabolism and supports the regenerative possibilities of the liver cells. As a trial alanine was given as a monosubstance for depression, M. Parkinson and multiple scleroses.

L-arginine: see above

L-aspaartic acid: the basis for nucleic acid, possibly also working efficiency-increasing.

Important amino acids for the development of the basal substance are L-cystein, L-glycine, L-lysine and L-proline. Lysine possibly improves the uptake of calcium into the bones for those suffering from osteoporosis. Cystein has in addition a great oxidative potential and possibly via a cystein ingestion an immune stimulation can be effected. Glycine plays a part in the body’s own production of acetylcholine and glutathion. It also has an important cytoprotective and immune modulating effect.

Reduced glutathion consists of glycine, cystein and glutamic acid and plays an important role in the body’s own detoxifying substance. Unfortunately the concentration of glutathion decreases with age.

The branched-chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine and valine) play an important role for muscle metabolism, as they increase the protein synthesis. Isoleucine especially helps patients with liver cirrhosis. For patients with initial diabetes the isoleucine levels are often primarily increased.

L-glutamic acid or L-glutamine: both amino acids are produced almost exclusively in the muscle so that the level drops with muscle atrophy. Glutamine deficiency also leads to a substantial change in the intestinal mucosa leading to permeability disorders. The regulation of protein, carbohydrate and fat metabolism is glutamine-dependent. The immune system also profits enormously from glutamine so that it plays an important role for HIV-patients with a damaged intestinal-mucosa-system.

L-histidine: the precursor for the inflammatory mediator histamine. As a transmitter substance, it mostly has an activating effect on the brain. Patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis generally have a greatly decreased concentration of histidine in the joint.

L-methionine: assists the biosynthesis of various body own compounds. It is important as a sulphur deliverer for the amino acid cystein. It supports the body’s production of choline, creatine, melatonine or adrenalin and is helpful for detoxifying pharmaceuticals. This amino acid possibly contains both an analgesic and antiphlogistic effect and can therefore be suitably used by those suffering from rheumatism.

Phenylalanine: the precursor for melatonine and dopamine and is as such the basis for the biosynthesis of catecholamines.

L-thyrosine: can be produced via phenylalanine when it is deficient. There are test trials using it as a mono substance for depressed conditions.

Serine: is an important component for choline and basis for the production of phospholipids. It also assists liver detoxification.

Tryptophan: the basis for various biogenic substances such as tryptamine, which increases blood pressure and serotonine which coordinates the sleeping-waking rhythm in its neurotransmitter function. It also has an influence on mood and pain experience. For this reason it has been used in higher doses as a mono substance to induce sleep.

Threonine: a component for the production of immunoglobulins and immunoreceptors so that a deficiency will generally lead to a disorder in the immune defence. A deficiency can quickly develop as generally the absorption is minimal.

For the content of vitamins see under blossom pollen!

For the content of minerals see under propolis!

Preclinical and Clinical Study Results for Royal Jelly

(Case No. 8031-67-2)

Tests for acute toxicity have found that the oral feeding of 10g/kg body weight royal jelly is completely harmless for mice.

In older preclinical studies a positive effect was found regarding the life expectancy for mice which had been completely radiated, so that royal jelly can be characterized as a radioprotective substance.

This includes a positive effect on the immune system of rodents. This is confirmed in other in-vitro studies. The mitotic activity of lymphocytes increases in the presence of royal jelly.

In experimentally induced atherosclerosis in rabbits, a certain effect on the progression of the condition could be produced by royal jelly.

In another study an insulin-like effect on blood sugar and immunological characteristics of royal jelly could be reported.

A japanese paper (1990) reported the presence of an antibiotic effective substance (exclusively against gram-positive bacteria) and after characterization of the primary structure was given the name “royalisin” by the authors.

In a newer study (1995) also with rodents 700mg/royal jelly/kg weight was given for six weeks and the following results were noted: reduced cholesterol levels, an improved deformation of the erythrocytes as well as a reduction of the plasma-fibrinogen levels.

Older clinical studies mostly from East European countries found reference to a positive effect for eye diseases or for multimorbid patients (geriatrics).

Some authors have reported on their experiences on women with menopausal complaints with the simultaneous use of pollen and royal jelly (see under blossom pollen).There are also combinations with other natural substances such as ginseng, crataegus, vitamins or propolis which have found use for different conditions, e.g. for urological conditions. There are also positive reports of the ingestion of such combined substances by athletes (improved endurance and the reduction of some health disorders), the elderly (improved concentration and performance) or apparantly healthy with liver damage (marked decrease in pathological liver values).

Once more there will be a reference to the relationship between the extracellular matrix and bee products:

The high content of amino acids is especially important because to build structure proteins glycine, lysine and proline as well as vitamin C and iron are indispensable; the last substances to effect the hydroxylation of the amino acids. The systhesis of PG or GAG is also influenced by vitamin A in that by decreasing the decorin synthesis it also regulates the most potent cytokinine to produce the basal substance, TGF beta.

Additionally the essential trace elements are able to activate the body’s own enzymes (also those produced by the fibroblasts) and to steer the reconstruction of the matrix. After all such substances influence the large contingent of macrophages which act in the central position in the immunological network.

Blossom pollen

Introduction

In his small book on advice “Gesundheit aus dem Bienenstock” (Health from the bee hive), Dr. Ehmann established that 30 g of blossom pollen could cover the daily protein requirements of an adult. Even though the Vikings knew of neither the nutritional physiological value nor the single valuable substances, they took pollen (together with the honey comb) with them on their long travels by ship as a tonic.

These sailors did not need to fear any deficiencies as the honey comb and the enzymatic predigestion initiated by the chewing process of the bees, already produced various vitamins, minerals and enzymes
(see chapter on honey). What they didn’t know was that a more specific process could release a lot more of the vitamins.

The pollen grains harvested by the bees consist of 3 – 5 million single blossom dust grains, each of them surrounded by a stable protecting layer. It is therefore almost impossible for the human intestine to get at the valuable contents (see Figures 1 & 2 located on the Insert following this page).

Please refer to the enclosed color photo images
for Figures referenced in this article

Special enzymatic and later mechanical processes are necessary to release the vitamins, enzymes, minerals, flavonoids and the other substances not yet studied in detail from the pollen grain. As is generally the case in enzymatic processes, a special ambient is necessary to receive an optimal result (incubation length, substrate-enzyme-concentration, pH-value, temperature and pressure). Additionally to this, a mechanical trituration follows the enzymatic process to ensure that the whole pollen content can be absorbed by the intestine. (see Figures 3, 4 & 5)

For medical use the fluid pollen substance is suitably dried and becomes a product in powder form, so that stability and high quality can be obtained as is the case with Pollysat® 85 (ingredient of Matricell®).

Ingredients of Blossom Pollen

Fresh pollen contains up to 12% water, 35% carbohydrates, 5% fat and 20% proteids, the majority as free amino acids, further enzymes (amylase, phophatase) and antibiotically acting substances. Possibly aroma substances are to be found under those substances yet to be defined.

Pollen also contains minerals, flavonoids and polyphenols (recently defined under the name phytosterols) as well as a large number of vitamins mostly from the B-group.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

This vitamin is an indispensable co-enzyme for carbohydrate metabolism and a regulator for the fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis in the central nervous system (CNS). It also plays a part in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, also of acetycholine. There is a higher demand for this vitamin for athletes, during pregnancy and for those with hyperthyroidism. A decrease in serum concentrations is known for alcolol abuse and during a coma diabeticum.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

Vitamin B2 is involved as co-enzyme for the complex FAD/FMN and also as an essential part of the glutathione reductase. This is an important protective system against oxidative stress especially in the erythrocyte membranes.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

As a co-factor it is indispensable for about 100 bodily enzymes, especially for energy production (respiratory chain). The production of hormones is also influenced e.g. that also of insulin. The main symptoms of a deficiency are changes in the skin as well as of the higher brain functions.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid)

As co-enzyme A it has an effect on the entire metabolism. It is also required for the synthesis of steroids, blood and the neurotransmitters acetylcholine and taurine.

Vitamine B6 (Pyridoxine)

This vitamin has a major influence on the central nervous system as well as on the nucleic acid and protein metabolism. It increases the networking of the collagen fibrils. A deficiency in Vitamin B6 leads to an impairment in the immune response.

Vitamin B9 (Folic acid)

Vitamin B9 acts on the cell regeneration as well as the formation of erythrocytes and leucocytes. There is often a deficit due to medication interactions, chronic intestinal conditions or due to prolonged use of contraceptives. Deficiencies during pregnancy lead to serious neurological disturbances.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) and the
combination of B-Vitamins for the diabetic

Vitamin B12 is important for the purine biosynthesis, as co-factor for many mitochondrial enzymes whereby the combination with Vitamin B9 is necessary. Also the combination of the vitamins B6, B9 and B12 is necessary to lower raised levels of homocystein in the serum and so to reduce the advancement of atherosclerosis.

The vitamins B1, B6, B9 and B12 are important for diabetics to reduce a polyneuropathy. The vibrational feelings and the nerve conduction speed can be improved and possibly also typical dysfunctions like diarrheoa, arrhythmia, or somnipathy. Extra portions of vitamin B6 increase the insulin sensitivity, while B12 improves the regeneration of the myelin sheaths.

It is known from the literature that the B-vitamins have analgesic and antiinflammatory characteristics whose effects are intensified by vitamin E and C as well as through flavonoids.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)

This is the most significant antioxidans in a watery milieu and prevents the infiltration of oxygen radicals into the lipid system. Vitamin C increases the resistance to infection and the phagocyte activity. The most important factor is the protection of the vessels and collagen by vitamin C: here it ensures the regular development of a triple helix and an adequate networking. In addition, vitamin C has a powerful detoxifying effect and accelerates the elimination of nitrate and heavy metal ions out of the body. It improves the resorption of iron and has a positive effect on sperm production.

Vitamin D (active D3 from ergosterol)

It is only in the liver and kidneys that the active form of vitamin D is produced and then stored in the fat tissue of humans. It probably does not act directly, but similar to a hormone, via receptors. The most important function is firstly the homeostasis of the body’s calcium, then it has points of attack in the intestines, in the bone, the kidneys and the parathyroid gland. Receptors on other organs have been found, e.g. on pancreas tissue, in various brain regions and on specific immune cells.

Vitamin E (RRR-alpha-tocopherol)

A large number of publications call attention to the meaning of this vitamin e.g. protective against oxidated LDL and therefore as a possibile prophylactic against atherosclerosis which can occur much earlier and severely for diabetics.

Newer findings show an activating function on the immune cells even for the elderly, improvement for rheumatic complaints (joints, spinal column, soft tissue rheumatism) and protection against liver damage. It is apparently of importance for diabetics to reduce the premature damage to the eyes and the kidneys.

Pro-vitamin A (beta-carotin)

In the human intestines the phytogenic beta-carotin is converted to two molecules of vitamin A and this fat soluble vitamin is finally transported via a specific system to the liver for storage. Vitamin A is necessary for differentiation and growth of the epithelial tissue. Depending on the origin it either acts developmentally (in the sense of maturion, reproduction) or inhibiting (tumour, psoriasis!). It is of determining importance for the production of mucopolysaccharides in the basal substance for the process of seeing and for changes in the body’s own immune system where it stimulates both the cellular and the humoral axis. The vitamin A demand is higher during periods of growth, for regenerative processes and during chronic infections. Acute or chronic intoxications or teratogenic damage through vitamin A is not to be expected through beta-carotin.

Beta-carotin which enters the body undivided is a lipophil antioxidans which is apparantly not suitable for use as a sole substance for cancer prophylactic.

For the mineral substances see under the Heading on propolis, for the amino acids see under the Heading on royal jelly!

Preclinical and Clinical Studies
for Blossom Pollen

A short, but important comment:

Due to the varied contents it is not surprising that pollen is a high quality substance suggested as a general tonic and vitalizer for the young and stress- plagued as well as for the elderly (consuming illnesses, general fatigue due to chronic conditions, see combination Matricell®).

On the other hand positive effects on the glutathion system of the liver have been found in preclinical tests using this substance mixture. Animals were fed pollen and simultaneously given whole body ray treatment.

Blossom pollen has a positive effect on both the weight of pregnant animals as well as their fetus. Not only did the weight increase significantly, but so did the haemoglobin, serum iron and the albumin concentration. There were no indications of teratogenic or other toxic damage after feeding 10 or 20g pollen/ kg weight to embryos.

Positive results were found for malnourished or for very old rats in regard to their body weight or other body organs when 10g/kg body weight pollen was fed over a period of three months.

Diverse clinical studies, the last at the University clinic in Vienna were carried out with a combination of royal jelly on menopausal women with typical symptoms.

Although no changes in laboratory values could be found, there was in total a major improvement in the subjective complaints.

These were a decrease in vitality, head ache, urinary incontinence and vaginal dryness. The investigators recommended the use of such combination products if there are contraindications to the usual hormone therapy or if the woman prefers a natural treatment.

In combination with other substances (propolis, ginseng etc.) blossom pollen is recommended for athletes and the elderly, multimorbid people or generally people in day-to-day situations to increase their vitality or their concentration. There are also reports of improving appetite and the reduction of weakness (asthenia) after taking such combinations.

Finally there are reports of certain improvements of the symptomatic of prostate conditions and even for male sterility pollen may be helpful as a small field study in Jugoslavia found.

Moreover we should mention the vitalizing and sometimes even euphoric effect of royal jelly and pollen. There is also a detoxifying and immune activating effect of this combination.

This can only be due to the vital substances contained in the natural substances: vitamins, secondary phytosubstances (e.g. flavonoids), minerals and trace elements, amino acids and enzymes. Just this combination is necessary to guarantee the system of the basal regulation and the construction and catabolism of the matrix and the degenerative processes occurring with age in the area of the basal tissue to make them either tolerable or to check lingering chronic processes.

Various substances coming from the USA which have an ergogenic effect have been shown to be useful for athletes. Among these are amino acids, minerals and bee products. Under this concept, potential vitality-improving nutrients are understood. The use of such substances has the aim of increasing the energy reserves, multiplying the muscle tissue and repairing eventual cell damage due to sport. And what helps the athlete can surely not harm the hobby sportsperson!  d

Reference

The city of Weimar is not only famous for the Privy Counsillor von Goethe but also for the German Bee Museum with many exhibits including figure plunder, a wax hammer (the forerunner of the honey extractor) and the possibility of watching bees doing their work behind glass.

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