Anti-Fatigue Function of Pine Pollen

Anti-fatigue Function of Pine Pollen

Authors: Liu Xie (2004), Chinese Journal of Biochemical Pharmaceutics, CDC, Jiangsu Province, China

Introduction

Pine pollen has been traditionally used for its health benefits, particularly in enhancing physical performance and reducing fatigue. This study by Liu Xie (2004) investigates the anti-fatigue properties of pine pollen using a standard laboratory method.

Objective

The purpose of this research was to assess the effect of pine pollen on the swimming time of mice, a standard method for measuring fatigue and stress in the laboratory.

Methodology

• Animal Model: Mice were divided into groups and fed pine pollen at different dosages (100 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg).
• Fatigue Assessment: After two weeks of feeding, the mice were subjected to a weight-loaded swimming test.
• Biochemical Analysis: Post-exercise levels of blood lactic acid, urea nitrogen, and hepatic glycogen were measured to evaluate the impact of pine pollen on fatigue and energy metabolism.

Results

Swimming Time:

• Mice fed with pine pollen showed significantly longer swimming times compared to the control group (P<0.01).

Biochemical Parameters:

• Blood Lactic Acid: Pine pollen-fed mice had lower levels of blood lactic acid post-exercise (P<0.05, P<0.01).
• Urea Nitrogen: There was a reduction in urea nitrogen levels in the pine pollen groups (P<0.05, P<0.01).
• Hepatic Glycogen: Higher hepatic glycogen content was observed in the pine pollen-fed mice, indicating better energy storage and utilization (P<0.01).

Research Significance

The study’s findings highlight the potential of pine pollen as an effective natural supplement for reducing fatigue and enhancing physical performance. By extending swimming time and improving post-exercise biochemical markers, pine pollen demonstrates its capacity to support endurance and reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress. These benefits can be particularly valuable for athletes and individuals seeking to improve their physical performance and recovery.

Conclusion

The research conducted by Liu Xie provides compelling evidence supporting the anti-fatigue properties of pine pollen. The extended swimming times and improved biochemical markers in mice indicate that pine pollen can significantly enhance physical endurance and mitigate fatigue. The antioxidant components in pine pollen, such as vitamin E, beta-carotene, selenium, and flavonoids, contribute to its effectiveness by reducing oxidative stress and improving energy metabolism. These findings pave the way for further research into the use of pine pollen as a natural supplement for enhancing physical performance and reducing fatigue in humans.

Citation

Liu, X. (2004). Anti-fatigue function of pine pollen. Chinese Journal of Biochemical Pharmaceutics, CDC, Jiangsu Province, China. Original translation by RAW Forest Foods.