Anti-allergic properties of Australian bee pollen

Abstract Bee pollen, an apicultural product collected by honeybees from flower stamens, is attracting attention as a functional food material. Our previous studies have shown that the major components of Australian bee pollen are hydroxycinnamoyl acid amides (HCAAs) (1-4) and flavonoids (5-8). In this study, we aimed to elucidate the effectiveness of Australian bee pollen. Australian bee pollen extracts and their main compounds were tested for their inhibition of hyaluronidase activity and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) release. HCAAs strongly inhibited hyaluronidase activity and LTB4 release. Subsequently, the anti-allergy effects of Australian bee pollen extracts were studied using a guinea pig rhinitis model. Administration of Australian bee pollen inhibited nasal secretion in the guinea pig rhinitis model. Australian bee pollen, which likely exhibits anti-allergic properties, is anticipated to be highly valuable for use.