Bee pollen contains nearly all nutrients required by humans, and is therefore considered to be one of nature’s most completely nourishing foods. The pollen is about 40 percent protein and is rich in vitamins (including B-complex), free amino acids, and folic acid. Many people have used bee pollen to fight seasonal allergies; if you have been taking local bee pollen throughout the year, it can help soothe or completely diminish summer allergies when the pollen count rises.

Find out what all the buzz is about – check out these nine benefits of bee pollen.

1. Energy

Bee pollen contains carbohydrates, protein, B vitamins, and a large range of other nutrients that act as a natural energizer. Bee pollen can help you beat fatigue and keep your energy levels high throughout the day.

2. Skin

The amino acids and vitamins in bee pollen help protect skin’s cells and promote cell regeneration. It is often found as an ingredient in topical products to treat inflammatory conditions and skin irritations such as eczema or psoriasis.

3. Respiratory

As stated above, bee pollen is a great natural way to fight off allergy symptoms as it reduces the presence of histamine. Even asthma and other sinus problems have been shown to improve with the use of bee pollen due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

4. Digestive

The vitamins, minerals, proteins, and enzymes in bee pollen can help your body with digestion. The enzymes allow your body to get the most nutrients from the food that you eat.

5. Immune

Bee pollen has antibiotic-like properties that help protect the body from viruses; it is good for the intestinal flora, and can protect cells from free radical oxidation.

6. Cardiovascular

Bee pollen contains large amounts of an antioxidant bioflavonoid called Rutin that helps strengthen capillaries and blood vessels, assists with circulatory problems, and balances cholesterol levels. It has anti-clotting properties that can even help prevent heart attack or stroke.

7. Infertility Problems

Bee pollen is a hormone booster and stimulates ovarian function, which can be helpful when dealing with infertility.

8. Prostate

Bee pollen can help reduce the frequent need to urinate by reducing inflammation and can offer relief to those who suffer from from benign prostate hyperplasia.

9. Addictions

Bee pollen reduces cravings, food or otherwise, by suppressing impulses. This can be useful for weight management issues or healing other addictions.