Bee Pollen Injections for Pain

Bee byproducts have been used to treat an array of underlying medical conditions for thousands of years. Even Hippocrates realized the health benefits associated with bee venom and bee pollen. As early as the 1800s, bee venom was used to treat common symptoms of arthritis. Before venom began to be administered by injection, live bees were manipulated to sting patients in the areas where the venom was desired.

Bee Byproducts

• The Food and Drug Administration approves bee venom for homeopathic treatment. According to Northwestern Health Sciences University, bee venom contains 18 active substances that provide healing relief. It can be administered through live bees, through injections or in creams. Bee venom has valuable anti-inflammatory effects that can provide relief to patients suffering from inflammatory diseases.

Venom Injections

• By strengthening the body's inflammatory response, bee venom can help patients dealing with chronic pain. Homeopathic injections of bee venom (the substance bees produce from pollen to attack predators) is used to treat diseases like tendinitis, bursitis and osteoarthritis. It is also used to treat pain from pinched nerves, muscle spasms, degenerative nerves and trauma or surgery. The injections are delivered every other day, with the dose gradually increasing. Treatment length is determined by the severity of the condition.

Reactions

• Reactions to bee venom injections are usually temporary and mild. Pain at the injection site typically dissipates in a few minutes, says Mihaly Simics, author of "Bee Venom Therapy." The most severe reactions are allergic. Individuals with allergies to bee stings should not seek this type of treatment. According to Northwestern, drinking plenty of water and avoiding fatty foods and sugars makes treatment more effective. It is also suggested that alcohol and cigarettes impede the treatment's progress.

Bee Pollen

• Like bee venom, bee pollen has beneficial properties. Pollen is collected by bees from flowering plants. It contains valuable vitamins, minerals and amino acids. Bee pollen is found in makeup, creams and lotions. It is used as an anti-allergen, antioxidant, antidepressant, aphrodisiac, anti-bacterial or anti-toxin. Also, bee pollen aids in stress relief and can lower blood pressure, reports Northwestern Health Sciences University.

Propolis

• Propolis is a rich, waxy, nutrient-based substance made by honey bees from tree buds. It is used to protect the hive and add stability to its structure. Humans use propolis for its many benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, anti-depressant effects and the ability to regenerate healthy tissue. Propolis is often found in beauty creams, shampoo and even toothpaste.