Cistus is a group of plants that all belong to the Cistaceae family.
They are common shrubs in dry, chalky areas.
It is also well known in the world of perfumery for its highly aromatic labdanum gum.
Composition
Cistus pollen is very nutritious:
- Carbohydrates
- Dietary fibre
- Proteins
- Essential amino acids, including the branched ones: threonine, methionine, phenylalanine, lysine, tryptophan, valine, leucine and isoleucine.
- Lipids, including phospholipids (phytosterols), essential fatty acids (linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid) and polyunsaturated fatty acids
- Vitamins: C, E (tocopherol), B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folic acid), beta-carotene
- Minerals: potassium, phosphorus, sodium, magnesium...
- Trace elements: zinc, manganese, iron, copper, selenium...
- Polyphenols: kaempferol, quercetin, isorhamnetin, luteolin...
Properties and benefits
- A powerful antioxidant
- Protects the skeleton
- Full intestinal function
- Strengthens immune defences
- An anti-fatigue agent
The different forms
It can be eaten fresh or dried.
Both forms have advantages and disadvantages.
Fresh is richer in active ingredients, but keeps less well.
Dried is easy to preserve, but loses its potency through dehydration.
Cistus pollen is most commonly found fresh and frozen: a compromise that allows it to retain its benefits while being easy to store.
It can be organic, depending on the plants the bees forage for in the hive.
Fresh frozen cistus pollen should therefore be placed in the freezer.
Because of its low water content, you can easily take the amount you need for each batch and freeze it again.
Dosage
There is no officially recommended dose.
However, we can recommend one tablespoon per day for an adult.
For younger children, the dose should be smaller.
To eat: sprinkle on yoghurt or cottage cheese, fruit salad, muesli...
Warning: do not heat cistus pollen or mix it with anything hot.
Contraindications: allergies
Consuming cistus pollen naturally is not recommended for people with allergies.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women can take it only if they have taken it before.
In fact, it is best to limit any risk of revealing an allergy.