Have you ever noticed a dusting of yellow particles blanketing the ground during the springtime? This is pine pollen, and while you may not think much of it, this powdery substance is actually very nutritionally dense and offers an array of impressive health benefits. In fact, it's been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. Despite its long history of use and its abundance in nature, the healing properties of pine pollen are just now infiltrating the Western wellness world. In this article, we'll be exploring what exactly pine pollen is and the many ways this natural superfood can support your health and well-being. Here's what you need to know!
What exactly is pine pollen?
Simply put, pine pollen is the pollen from a variety of species of pine tree, a few of which include Scots pine, Masson's pine, and Chinese red pine. The delicate golden powder comes from male flowering shoots called “catkins,” which bud every year in early spring to pollinate female cones and produce new, healthy pine trees.
What are the health benefits of pine pollen?
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It's packed with nutrients
Pine pollen is brimming with nutrients, containing 200+ bioactive vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants . It also contains over 20 amino acids, eight of which are essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. The plentiful nutrients in pine pollen help slow the aging process, support a strong immune system , prevent disease, and contribute to the overall health of your body and mind.
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It supports hormone balance
One of the most well-known benefits of pine pollen is its unique ability to balance hormone levels. Pine pollen is one of the rare natural sources of testosterone, DHEA, and plant sterols . The body converts DHEA into either testosterone or estrogen, depending on what is needed. As such, pine pollen supports a balanced testosterone to estrogen ratio, which may contribute to improved libido, mood, sleep, weight, strength, and energy. Having balanced hormones may also reduce the incidence of breast and prostate cancers, fibroids, and fertility issues.
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It's adaptogenic
Pine pollen is adaptogenic, meaning it will cater to exactly what your body needs and soothe any areas of distress. If you're tired, it will give you energy. If you're feeling down, it will enhance your mood. If your immune system is weak, it will strengthen it. Adaptogens, such as pine pollen, are very effective for restoring balance to the body and mind.
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It's anti-inflammatory
Pine pollen is comprised of a sulfuric compound known as MSM, which is known to be effective in reducing inflammation and pain . A study in mice with chronic arthritis showed that consuming pine pollen extract daily for 49 days significantly lowered arthritis symptoms and molecules associated with inflammation.
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It supports skin health
Pine pollen has long been used by women practicing Traditional Chinese Medicine for its skin-enhancing properties. As we mentioned above, pine pollen contains MSM, which also helps increase levels of keratin and collagen, the essential building blocks of healthy hair, skin, and nails .
The bottom line
Nature knows best when it comes to healing and supporting the body and mind. Pine pollen is a powerful superfood that offers an array of health benefits for improved well-being. If you're ready to experience the benefits of pine pollen for yourself, try Amplifiers wild-harvested pine pollen today.
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19107823/
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2016.00066/full
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/5549221/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5372953/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19148883/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32083522/