The potency of royal jelly was discovered through observation of the striking differences between the queen bee and ordinary bees. Interestingly, the queen bee is 1.5 times larger than the ordinary bee. Whereas other bees' lifespans range from 40 to 50 days, hers stretches up to 4 or 5 years. The queen bee is also capable of laying some 2,000 eggs daily.

For 3 days after bee larvae hatch from their eggs, they are all fed royal jelly. However, eggs destined to become Queens are then placed in special cells which receives royal jelly throughout the larval stage. In fact, the queen bee receives this privileged treatment throughout her lifetime. It is this exclusive diet that contributes to her awesome growth, fertility and longevity. How this is possible:

This "milk of the bees" contains 22 amino acids, 6 of which are essential to life and cannot be produced by the body. It also comprises the entire B group of vitamins necessary for normal body functions. Royal jelly is produced by the nurser bee which chews up pollen, then mixes it with secretions from 2 glands located in its head. 10 hydroxy-2-decenoic acid from the mandibular gland has bacterial preventive properties and acts as a preservative. Secretions from the hypopharyngeal gland contain the B group of vitamins.

About 3% of the components of royal jelly have defied scientific analysis. As such, only royal jelly in its natural state is most potent. Man has tried to combine all the vitamins and amino acids in the laboratories, yet cannot duplicate the same effects of natural royal jelly. To preserve this potency and freshness, royal jelly has to be frozen in vacuum flasks within 15 minutes of its collection. The effect of royal jelly on the queen bee holds profound implications for its benefit to humans. For those who take it regularly, its actions seem to be systemic rather than one which affects a specific biological function. It is thus recommended for a large variety of purposes. A mild food, royal jelly is readily absorbed even by the weakest stomach.

On the whole, royai jelly is believed to maintain and improve general health and well-being. By improving the efficiency of blood circulation, it assists in relieving a number of physical complaints, breathlessness and cramps. Cell rejuvenation and growth have been attributed to royal jelly, possibly preventing premature ageing. The rich amounts of amino acids together with the B group of vitamins aids in ante- and post-natal care and during convalescence. Its pantothenic acid content is associated with longevity. the healing of arthritis and maintaining of a youthful complexion.

Royal jelly with its glucose contents builds up stamina. Bacterial growth is inhibited and the possibility of infection reduced. In addition, it aids in the relief of chronic depression and stress. Further benefits of royal jelly: to stimulate flagging appetites; correct undernutrition and promote growth; relieve menstrual pains and anxiety problems; and reduce anaemia.

Copyright Dec 2006.Wynn-Wright (Australia) Pty Ltd. All Rights reserved.

Disclaimer: The above article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as diagnosis, treatment or prescription for any health condition. For more details, please seek professional medical advice.