Journal of Nutraceuticals and Health

ABSTRACT

Ethnopharmacology, at the crossroads of human and natural sciences, is devoted to exploring traditional medicines as sources of potential future treatments. In this context, our study aimed to conduct an ethnopharmacological survey investigating the traditional use of bee pollen in several regions of Tunisia. The survey comprised three main sections: demographic information about respondents (e.g., age, gender, and education level), identification and application of hive products, and details regarding the discovery and utilization of bee pollen, including diseases treated, preparation methods, and modes of administration. Our findings revealed that bee pollen is primarily used as a remedy for various ailments, with a notable focus on digestive disorders (32.7%). In terms of preparation, respondents commonly employed bee pollen in culinary applications (cooking: 31.2%, Viennese pastries: 19.9%, mixed with oat flakes: 22.2%), followed by infusion, capsules or tablets, and decoction methods (34.3%, 34.3%, and 15.9%, respectively). Oral administration was overwhelmingly preferred (76.9%). In conclusion, the insights gathered from residents of different regions regarding this medicinal bee product present compelling prospects for future therapeutic innovations. This data serves as a valuable foundation for further pharmacological and experimental studies aimed at exploring the medicinal potential of bee pollen.

KEYWORDS

1. Bee pollen
2. Ethnopharmacology
3. Hives products
4. Phototherapeutic effect
5. Survey
6. Tunisia