- Rich in amino acids, the building blocks of protein
- Contains the B vitamins
- Pantothenic acid is known as the “anti-stress” vitamin
- Provides essential fatty acids
- May support immune function and help fight infection
Royal Jelly gets its name as because it is the only food of the queen bee. All bee larvae start out the same and receive the same food, royal jelly, for the first three days. Beginning after about 2.5 days, most larvae receive a mixture of royal jelly, honey, and pollen. This causes them to develop into worker bees. If a queen bee is needed that larva continues to receive royal jelly. The thick, creamy liquid causes changes resulting in a bee that is 50% heavier than workers and that lives several years instead of just weeks. The queen produces approximately 2,000 eggs each day, almost two and half times her body weight.
The dramatic changes royal jelly brought about in the queen bee sparked interest among scientists beginning in the 1950s. Royal jelly has been a popular supplement ever since. Proponents make a variety of claims for royal jelly from its ability to improve general vigor to slowing aging, speeding healing, and strengthening the immune system. Clinical studies are needed to confirm many claims.
Researchers do know that the compound is a very complex one biochemically. It is a valuable source of amino acids, including 8 essential for human health. It also provides essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, RNA, and DNA. Royal jelly contains most of the B-complex of vitamins. It provides B1, B2, B6, B12 (prized for boosting energy), biotin, folic acid, inositol and pantothenic acid (known as the “anti-stress” vitamin). Royal jelly also contains gamma globulin, a substance believed to stimulate the immune system and help fight infections. Some studies point to Royal jelly having antibiotic and antiviral properties.