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Bee Pollen Side Effects, Interactions and Warnings

It is strongly advised that only commercial products be used and to follow the directions on the label.

Asthma, angioedema and dyspnea are possible reactions to bee pollen supplements.

Some people may be allergic after ingesting bee pollen. It is best to try a small amount at first and watch for a developing rash, wheezing, discomfort, or any other signs of a reaction. If symptoms occur, discontinue taking bee pollen.

Report describes the case of a 32-year-old woman who suffered a phototoxic reaction after taking a dietary supplement containing ginseng, goldenseal, bee pollen, and other ingredients. On presentation, she had a pruritic, erythematous rash, localized to the sun-exposed surfaces of her neck and extremities. She had no significant past medical history and was not taking any other medications. The skin rash slowly resolved after discontinuation of the supplement and with treatment including subcutaneous and topical corticosteroids. Although the individual ingredients in this dietary supplement have not been associated with cases of photosensitivity, it is possible that the combination of ingredients may have interacted to cause this toxic reaction.
- J Toxicol Clin Toxicol. 2003;41(6):865-7. -- Photosensitivity reaction in a woman using an herbal supplement containing ginseng, goldenseal, and bee pollen. -- Palanisamy A, Haller C, Olson KR.

Sixteen reports concerned allergic reactions (with dermatological or respiratory symptoms), while two concerned the digestive tract. Some of the reactions were serious: six patients were admitted to hospital or visited an emergency department and in two of these a life-threatening event was reported. In seven patients (four of whom were children), an allergic predisposition was indicated. Propolis is also a potent sensitizer and should not be used in patients with an allergic predisposition, in particular an allergy to pollen or bees. Atopic and asthmatic individuals may be at an increased risk of allergic reactions after using these products. The public and healthcare practitioners should be aware of the risk of allergic reactions to products derived from bees and a warning should be added to the packaging of these products.
- Drug Saf. 2008;31(5):419-23. -- Surveillance of suspected adverse reactions to natural health products: the case of propolis. -- Menniti-Ippolito F, Mazzanti G, Vitalone A, Firenzuoli F, Santuccio C.

last update: March 2009

This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this material to diagnose or treat a health condition or disease without consulting with your healthcare provider.
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