The effects of royal jelly on human health: A narrative review of clinical studies

Abstract

Royal jelly (RJ) is a natural bioactive substance with documented effects on human health. This narrative review synthesizes evidence from clinical and clinically relevant experimental studies evaluating the therapeutic potential of RJ. Clinical research indicates beneficial effects of RJ in cardiovascular health, metabolic regulation, menopausal symptom management, chronic hepatitis, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, anemia, skin health, and neurocognitive support. Mechanistic evidence suggests that antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, vasodilatory, hormonal, and mitochondrial pathways underpin these effects. While overall outcomes are generally positive, variability in responses and rare adverse reactions, particularly in allergic individuals, such as complications with bronchial asthma and interaction with anticoagulant therapy, have been reported. RJ should be considered a complementary therapy rather than a substitute for conventional medical treatments.