Royal Jelly (PDF)
This information sheet is designed for people with asthma and allergies to provide an overview of royal jelly, describing what it is, the effects it can have and what can be done to avoid these effects.
People with asthma and allergies are strongly advised to avoid products containing royal jelly because of the risk of severe allergic reactions. In early 1994, the Therapeutic Goods Administration reviewed eleven cases of severe allergic reactions following ingestion of products containing royal jelly, including one death and four life-threatening cases. The review concluded that royal jelly is a major and life-threatening risk for people with asthma and allergies.
Any product containing royal jelly should carry a warning label indicating that “it is not recommended for people with asthma and allergies as it can cause severe allergic reactions.”
What is royal jelly?
This substance is secreted by the salivary glands of honey bees and is widely used as a health tonic. It contains mostly proteins and water, and research is under way to identify the proteins that are responsible for causing the allergic reactions.
What happens to me if I am allergic to royal jelly?
Symptoms can start from a few minutes to several hours after taking the product. They can affect the nose, eyes, skin and lungs. Typical symptoms include runny nose, runny, itching and puffy eyes, skin eruptions and/or irritation, difficulty in breathing, and wheezing (whistling sound in the chest). In fatal cases, respiratory arrest occurs. When such symptoms occur for the first time, it can be very frightening and immediate action is required without panicking.
What should I do?
For people with asthma, start the emergency action plan immediately, taking reliever medication and calling an ambulance for urgent medical treatment. Since asthma and allergies can develop at any time, if such symptoms are experienced for the first time, seek medical assistance even if there is no previous history of asthma or allergies.
What can I do to avoid problems?
As part of the Six Step Asthma Management Plan, make sure triggers are known and avoided. Make sure an action plan is worked out with the doctor, and always take worsening symptoms seriously.
Always read the patient information leaflet and warning labels on products bought for health reasons. This includes medicines from the pharmacy or supermarket, as well as tonics, remedies, and supplements from health food shops and other sources.
Remember when consulting any practitioner (i.e. doctors, pharmacists, naturopaths, acupuncturists, herbalists) make sure they are aware of asthma or any history of allergic reactions.