Pine pollen has been a staple in traditional Easter medicine for thousands of years. Ancient Chinese people have been harvesting pine pollen for its nutritional value and health benefits.
What is Pine Pollen Good For?
Pine pollen may seem nondescript and hard to miss, but this golden substance is more than meets the eye.
Pine pollen is said to be loaded with vitamins and minerals and is generally good for your health. However, medical studies to support this claim is few and far between. Still, with it being ever-present in traditional medicine, one can’t help wondering whether such claims might be true after all.
Improved Libido in Men
It is said that because pine pollen has testosterone, it may help men with decreasing testosterone levels and improve their libido.
Those who have taken pine pollen claim to experience a host of benefits. For example, there has been a marked improvement in athletic performance, increases in energy levels and libido, and enhanced sexual function.
Pine pollen is said to contain androgenic hormones such as DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), and epitestosterone as well. Aside from these, it is also said to be loaded with phyto-steroidal compounds, compounds that are known to support and maintain erections, prolong stamina, and a robust sexual drive.
This is, by far, the most popular reason why men reach out for a bottle of pine pollen extract powder. Men have sought out pine pollen to be able to relive their peak sexual performance of their youth.
Anti-Inflammatory Claims
Studies done on mice and in-vitro suggest that pine pollen may have the capability to possess anti-inflammatory properties, but this still remains to be proven with further studies.
However, pine pollen extract powder can be a potent treatment for ailments such as arthritis. This just further strengthens its use in ancient cultures for thousands of years.
Slows Down Aging
Aging is inevitable and should be seen as a privilege, but this doesn’t mean the people don’t want to stay youthful for as long as possible.
Pine pollen may have high levels of antioxidants that help slow down the progression of aging. Because of its antioxidative compounds, it assists the body in releasing free radicals. Free radicals are naturally occuring by-products of the body and should be expelled consequently. However, due to diet and lifestyle choices, you can affect the body’s capability to effectively get rid of free radicals and even contribute to its increase in numbers.
Too much free radicals in the body is said to be harmful and is said to be attributed to the development of certain diseases and even cancer.
Helps Prevent Disease
A recent report from the published work of Frontiers in Pharmacology claimed that pine pollen can help prevent a liver problem called hepatic fibrosis.
Because of its apparent high levels of vitamins and minerals, it is also beneficial for helping fight viral and bacterial infections. It helps boost the immune system in helping it ward off potentially harmful foreign bodies.
Some Potential Side Effects
Pine pollen may be natural as it comes from pine trees but this doesn’t mean that it is exempted from causing any side effects. Since clinical trials regarding this seed are still in its preliminary stages, there is nothing wrong with being cautious about it. If you have pine allergies, it is best to stay away from pine pollen as it may cause an allergic reaction.
Since it contains hormones, high levels of it can be potentially harmful. All hormones must always be within a certain range for it to be considered healthy. Taking pine pollen may spike testosterone levels and this may cause blood clots in the legs, heart problems, an increased likelihood of developing prostate cancer, low sperm count, acne, and sleep apnea among other things.
Do keep in mind that for some individuals, low testosterone levels may be a symptom of a more serious health issue that may need to be treated. Instead of self-medicating, consult a doctor if you are experiencing any symptoms.
Pregnant and lactating women, children and adolescents are advised to avoid taking pine pollen.
Dosage
How much and how often you should take pine pollen is dependent on your age and medical condition, if any. Read labels of recommended dosage when you decide to purchase pine pollen extract powder.
If you are unsure or if you have any questions, contact your healthcare professional for a clearer answer. You may be taking medications that might counteract with pine pollen.