Best Royal Jelly Supplements (2026) – Top 10 Reviewed
Royal jelly is a nutrient-dense superfood secreted by worker bees to nourish the queen bee, enabling her to live up to 40 times longer than other bees. Rich in B-vitamins, amino acids, proteins, and the unique fatty acid 10-HDA, it’s become a popular supplement for immune support, energy, and skin health.
The best royal jelly supplements contain high concentrations of 10-HDA (the key bioactive compound) and come from reputable sources with proper handling to preserve potency. Here are our top 10 picks for 2026.
| Product | Key Features | Servings | Form | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOW Foods Royal Jelly 1000mg | 10-HDA standardized, freeze-dried | 60 | Softgels | Best Overall |
| Carlyle Royal Jelly 2500mg | High potency, 120 capsules | 60 | Capsules | Best Value |
| Greenbow Organic Fresh Royal Jelly | USDA Organic certified, raw | 28 | Fresh Jelly | Best Organic |
| Manuka Health Royal Jelly 1000mg | New Zealand sourced, 365 caps | 365 | Capsules | Best for Long-Term Use |
| Dr. Danielle’s Bee Wise | Royal jelly + propolis + bee pollen | 30 | Capsules | Best Combo Formula |
| Solgar Royal Jelly 500 | 3X concentrate, trusted brand | 60 | Softgels | Best Premium Option |
| YS Eco Bee Farms Royal Jelly 2000mg | Freeze-dried, high potency | 75 | Capsules | Best High-Potency |
| Stakich Fresh Royal Jelly | 100% pure, shipped cold | ~57 | Fresh Jelly | Best Fresh Royal Jelly |
| Puritan’s Pride Royal Jelly 500mg | Contains 10-HDA, affordable | 120 | Softgels | Best Budget Option |
| Greenbow Royal Jelly 2000mg Capsules | Organic, vegan capsules | 30 | Vegan Capsules | Best for Vegans |
1. NOW Foods Royal Jelly 1000mg – Best Overall
Why it stands out: NOW Foods has been a trusted name in supplements since 1968, and their royal jelly delivers a standardized 10-HDA content with freeze-dried processing that preserves potency. Their NPA A-rated GMP certification means every aspect of manufacturing is independently verified.
Each softgel provides the equivalent of 1000mg fresh royal jelly with a guaranteed 14mg of 10-HDA (hydroxy-d-decenoic acid), the bioactive compound that gives royal jelly its health benefits. The freeze-drying process maintains stability without refrigeration, making it convenient for travel or those who don’t want to worry about cold storage. NOW’s facility processes and tests every batch, and the product is GMP-certified with independent verification. The formula is kosher-certified, non-GMO, and free from soy and dairy, making it accessible for most dietary needs. Royal jelly’s complex nutritional profile includes nucleotides, polyphenols, and unique organic acids that have been valued in traditional wellness practices for centuries. Take one to two softgels daily with food for best absorption.
Pros:
- Standardized 10-HDA content (14mg per softgel) for consistent potency
- GMP-certified facility with rigorous third-party testing
- Freeze-dried for excellent shelf stability without refrigeration
- 60-day supply at recommended dosage
- Kosher certified and non-GMO
Cons:
- Contains gelatin (not suitable for vegans)
- Single form factor only (softgels)
Best for: Anyone wanting a reliable, standardized royal jelly from a trusted brand with transparent quality controls and independent testing verification.
2. Carlyle Royal Jelly 2500mg – Best Value
Why it stands out: Carlyle delivers one of the highest potencies on the market at an extremely competitive price point, giving you 120 capsules with 2500mg equivalent per serving. Their three generations of supplement expertise show in the quality-to-value ratio.
With over 40 years in the supplement industry spanning three generations, Carlyle offers laboratory-tested royal jelly at a fraction of premium brand prices. The quick-release capsules make the nutrients readily available for absorption, and the 120-count bottle provides a full 60-day supply when taking the recommended two capsules daily. Royal jelly is considered a superfood in many cultures, providing naturally occurring B-complex vitamins along with proteins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids, and carbohydrates. The formula is naturally free of gluten, wheat, yeast, milk, lactose, soy, and artificial flavors, with a commitment to non-GMO ingredients. Carlyle backs their products with a 100% quality guarantee, demonstrating confidence in their manufacturing processes. For best results, take two capsules daily with a meal.
Pros:
- High 2500mg potency per serving for maximum benefit
- 120 capsules provides excellent long-term value
- Laboratory tested for purity and potency
- Non-GMO and free from major allergens
- 100% quality guarantee from the manufacturer
Cons:
- Requires 2 capsules for full serving
- Not organic certified
- Some users find capsules large
Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers who want high potency without paying premium prices, and anyone who appreciates manufacturer guarantees.
3. Greenbow Organic Fresh Royal Jelly – Best Organic
Why it stands out: This is one of the few USDA Certified Organic fresh royal jelly products on the market, harvested from organic bee farms and kept refrigerated to preserve maximum potency. Greenbow brings over 40 years of beekeeping knowledge to their products.
Greenbow’s fresh royal jelly is completely unprocessed and contains no additives, preservatives, or freeze-drying agents—it’s the same nutrient-dense substance that queen bees consume in the hive. The USDA organic certification means stringent quality standards from hive to jar, including organic bee farms and handling procedures. It’s also certified Halal, Non-GMO Project Verified, and naturally gluten-free. The 28g jar provides approximately 56 servings when taking the recommended 1/2 teaspoon daily. Worker bees and queen bees are born genetically identical, but only queens are fed royal jelly exclusively, enabling them to grow larger, stronger, and live dramatically longer than workers. Greenbow donates 1% of proceeds to the Planet Bee Foundation to support bee education and conservation. For best results, take on an empty stomach in the morning, mixing with honey or smoothies if the distinctive taste is challenging.
Pros:
- USDA Certified Organic with full traceability
- 100% pure with absolutely no additives
- Maximum potency preserved in fresh form
- Halal, Non-GMO, and gluten-free certified
- Supports bee conservation through charitable giving
Cons:
- Requires refrigeration at all times
- Strong, distinctive taste that some find unpleasant
- Shorter shelf life than capsule forms
- Higher price per serving than capsules
Best for: Health purists who want the most natural, unprocessed form of royal jelly with organic certification and full-spectrum nutrition.
4. Manuka Health Royal Jelly 1000mg – Best for Long-Term Use
Why it stands out: Sourced from New Zealand’s pristine environment, Manuka Health offers a massive 365-capsule bottle for a full year’s supply at an affordable per-serving cost. This is ideal for those committed to consistent supplementation.
Each capsule contains 1000mg royal jelly equivalent with verified 10H2DA content (10-Hydroxy-2-decenoic acid), the scientific marker for royal jelly potency. Sourced from New Zealand beekeepers known for sustainable practices, Manuka Health brings the same expertise that made their Manuka honey famous. Royal jelly is the only natural source of 10H2DA, which is believed to support hormonal balance and collagen production—making it popular as both a wellness and beauty supplement. The freeze-dried formula from New Zealand maintains nutritional integrity while eliminating the need for refrigeration. Each capsule provides protein, amino acids, lipids, minerals, folic acid, fatty acids, and B-vitamins. The one-year supply eliminates the hassle of frequent reordering and locks in your cost. Manuka Health leads sustainable beekeeping practices to protect New Zealand’s pristine landscape.
Pros:
- 365-capsule bottle provides a full year’s supply
- New Zealand sourced with verified sustainable practices
- Contains standardized 10H2DA levels for potency assurance
- Excellent price per serving for bulk buying
- No artificial flavors, sweeteners, preservatives, or colors
Cons:
- Contains beef gelatin (not suitable for vegetarians)
- Individual capsule potency lower than some competitors
- Large bottle may be intimidating for new users
Best for: Anyone committed to long-term royal jelly supplementation who wants the convenience and significant cost savings of buying in bulk.
5. Dr. Danielle’s Bee Wise – Best Combo Formula
Why it stands out: This three-in-one formula combines royal jelly (1500mg), bee propolis (1000mg), and bee pollen (750mg) in four daily capsules for comprehensive bee superfood nutrition. It’s designed to deliver synergistic benefits from the complete bee product spectrum.
Rather than taking multiple supplements, Bee Wise delivers the complementary benefits of all three major bee products in one formula. Royal jelly provides B-vitamins, amino acids, and fatty acids; propolis offers immune-supporting flavonoids and natural antimicrobial properties; and bee pollen adds complete protein with all essential amino acids plus additional antioxidants. The formula is made in the USA and comes with Dr. Danielle’s commitment to natural, effective formulations. This combination mirrors what exists naturally in the hive environment, where bees utilize all three substances for colony health. The product has thousands of positive reviews from customers who appreciate the convenience of comprehensive bee nutrition. Each bottle provides a 30-day supply when taking the recommended four capsules daily.
Pros:
- Three bee superfoods combined in one convenient product
- Synergistic formula designed for comprehensive benefits
- Made in USA with quality-focused manufacturing
- Thousands of positive customer reviews
- Eliminates need for multiple bee product supplements
Cons:
- Requires 4 capsules daily for full dose
- Individual doses lower than standalone specialty products
- Contains gelatin (not vegan)
- Only 30-day supply per bottle
Best for: Those who want the synergistic benefits of multiple bee products without managing separate supplements, and anyone seeking comprehensive hive nutrition.
6. Solgar Royal Jelly 500 – Best Premium Option
Why it stands out: Solgar has been the “gold standard” in supplements since 1947, offering a 3X concentrated royal jelly formula that’s free from gluten, wheat, and dairy. Their nearly 80 years of supplement expertise translates to meticulous quality standards.
Each softgel delivers 167mg of 3X concentrated royal jelly, equivalent to 500mg of fresh royal jelly per serving. Solgar’s mission has always been to create “the finest nutritional supplements in small batches, through tireless research, using only the finest raw materials.” Their pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing and rigorous quality control are reflected in every bottle. The formula excludes artificial flavors, sweeteners, preservatives, and colors—using only safflower oil, gelatin, yellow beeswax, soy lecithin, and glycerin as supporting ingredients. Royal jelly is the only food the queen bee consumes, accounting for her remarkable longevity compared to worker bees. Solgar’s commitment to quality extends to their packaging, with amber glass bottles that protect the contents from light degradation. Take one to two softgels daily with meals for optimal absorption.
Pros:
- Premium quality from a trusted heritage brand with 75+ years experience
- 3X concentrated formula for efficient delivery
- Free from artificial ingredients, preservatives, and colors
- Gluten, wheat, and dairy free
- Quality amber glass packaging protects contents
Cons:
- Higher price point than most competitors
- Lower potency equivalent than some alternatives
- Only 60 servings per bottle
- Contains soy lecithin
Best for: Quality-focused consumers who trust heritage brands and appreciate pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing standards, even at a premium price.
7. YS Eco Bee Farms Royal Jelly 2000mg – Best High-Potency
Why it stands out: YS Eco Bee Farms delivers one of the highest potencies available at 2000mg per capsule, using 100% pure freeze-dried fresh royal jelly. As a dedicated bee product company, they bring specialized expertise to royal jelly production.
This family-owned company specializes exclusively in bee products and delivers a potent 2000mg equivalent per capsule through their proprietary freeze-drying process that preserves the full nutritional profile. The 75-capsule bottle provides excellent value for those who want maximum potency without taking multiple pills. YS Eco Bee Farms has been producing quality bee products for decades, with a focus on purity, effectiveness, and maintaining the integrity of what nature provides. Their royal jelly is harvested and immediately freeze-dried to lock in nutrients including B-vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, and the critical 10-HDA compound. The “Eco” in their name reflects their commitment to environmentally responsible beekeeping practices. Each capsule delivers the equivalent nutritional value of fresh royal jelly without the refrigeration requirements or challenging taste.
Pros:
- High 2000mg potency delivers maximum nutrition per capsule
- 100% pure freeze-dried royal jelly with no fillers
- From an established bee product specialist company
- Good 75-capsule count provides solid value
- Environmentally conscious beekeeping practices
Cons:
- Some users report capsule size is on the larger side
- Not organic certified
- Limited availability at some retailers
Best for: Those who want maximum potency in each capsule without taking multiple pills, and anyone who values specialized bee product expertise.
8. Stakich Fresh Royal Jelly – Best Fresh Royal Jelly
Why it stands out: Stakich ships their fresh royal jelly with ice packs in insulated packaging to ensure it arrives cold and potent, maintaining all naturally occurring B-vitamins, enzymes, and 10-HDA in their most bioavailable form.
With over 90 years of beekeeping experience spanning multiple generations, Stakich is a family-owned Michigan company that has built a reputation for premium bee products. Their fresh royal jelly is kept frozen in their facility until it’s ready to ship, then carefully packed with gel ice packs and shipped via expedited transit to maintain temperature integrity. The 2-ounce jar contains no additives, preservatives, or processing agents—just pure royal jelly as it exists in the hive. Fresh royal jelly delivers the complete spectrum of nutrients including all naturally occurring B-vitamins (especially B5 pantothenic acid), nucleic acids, essential amino acids, fatty acids, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals. It’s the queen bee’s exclusive food source, enabling her to live up to 40 times longer than worker bees. The 2-ounce jar provides approximately 57 servings at the recommended 1/4 teaspoon daily dose. Store in the refrigerator after receiving and use within a few months for optimal potency.
Pros:
- Shipped with ice packs and insulated packaging for freshness
- 100% pure with absolutely no additives or preservatives
- From a 90-year-old family beekeeping business
- Maximum concentration of naturally occurring nutrients
- Full spectrum of B-vitamins, enzymes, and 10-HDA
Cons:
- Must be refrigerated immediately upon receipt
- Distinctive taste that some find challenging to consume
- Higher price per serving than capsule forms
- Shorter shelf life requires timely consumption
Best for: Purists who want the full, unprocessed nutritional profile of fresh royal jelly and don’t mind the taste or refrigeration requirements.
9. Puritan’s Pride Royal Jelly 500mg – Best Budget Option
Why it stands out: Puritan’s Pride offers a reliable royal jelly supplement at one of the lowest price points in the category, with 120 softgels that contain the important 10-HDA compound. It’s an accessible entry point for those new to royal jelly.
With over 50 years in the supplement industry, Puritan’s Pride manufactures in the USA with rigorous quality controls, testing products up to 15 times for purity, potency, and consistency. Their royal jelly extract is a highly complex substance secreted from the glands of nursing bees, containing the natural factor 10-Hydroxy-2-Decenoic Acid (10-HDA)—one of the most important active components responsible for royal jelly’s traditional benefits. The queen bee eats royal jelly exclusively throughout her life, which accounts for her remarkable size and longevity compared to worker bees. The 120-count bottle at a budget price makes this accessible for first-time users who want to experience royal jelly without a significant financial commitment. Take one softgel three times daily with meals for the recommended dose. The formula is free from sugar, milk, lactose, gluten, wheat, yeast, fish, and sodium.
Pros:
- Very affordable entry point for trying royal jelly
- 120 softgels per bottle for extended supply
- Contains standardized 10-HDA active compound
- Made in USA with up to 15 quality tests per product
- Free from major allergens and additives
Cons:
- Lower potency requires 3 softgels daily for recommended dose
- Individual softgel potency below premium alternatives
- May be discontinued or reformulated (check availability)
Best for: Budget shoppers, first-time royal jelly users, and anyone who wants to try royal jelly without a significant upfront investment.
10. Greenbow Royal Jelly 2000mg Capsules – Best for Vegans
Why it stands out: Made with organic royal jelly in certified vegan capsules, this is one of the few high-potency options suitable for plant-based lifestyles. Greenbow eliminates the gelatin that makes most royal jelly supplements off-limits for vegans.
Greenbow uses 100% organic royal jelly encased in a plant-based vegan capsule shell, eliminating the animal-derived gelatin found in nearly all competitor products. The 2000mg equivalency per serving delivers potent nutrition while respecting plant-based dietary principles. The formula is Non-GMO Project Verified and naturally gluten-free, meeting the standards of health-conscious consumers who carefully vet their supplements. Greenbow brings over 40 years of beekeeping knowledge to their products and maintains rigorous quality standards from organic bee farms through final packaging. The vegan capsules are designed for easy swallowing and rapid dissolution for nutrient absorption. While the 30-capsule count provides only a one-month supply, the peace of mind for vegan consumers often outweighs the need for larger bottles. Royal jelly itself is not vegan as it’s produced by bees, but vegetarians who consume bee products will find this capsule formulation aligns with their dietary needs.
Pros:
- Vegan capsule shell (no animal-derived gelatin)
- Made with certified organic royal jelly
- High 2000mg potency per serving
- Non-GMO Project Verified and gluten-free
- From a company with 40+ years beekeeping expertise
Cons:
- Only 30 capsules per bottle (one-month supply)
- Higher cost per serving than gelatin-based alternatives
- Royal jelly itself is a bee product (not suitable for strict vegans)
- Limited to smaller bottle sizes
Best for: Vegetarians and those avoiding gelatin who want high-potency royal jelly without animal-derived capsule ingredients.
What is Royal Jelly and Who Should Take It?
Royal jelly is a milky-white secretion produced by the hypopharyngeal glands of young worker honeybees specifically to feed the queen bee throughout her entire life. While worker bees live approximately 45 days, queen bees can live 5-6 years—a remarkable difference attributed largely to their exclusive royal jelly diet. Both worker and queen bees are born genetically identical, but the queen’s royal jelly nutrition triggers different gene expression that leads to her larger size, reproductive capability, and dramatically extended lifespan.
This nutrient-dense substance contains a complex array of proteins (12-15%), B-vitamins (especially B5 pantothenic acid and B6 pyridoxine), all essential amino acids, lipids, natural hormones, minerals (calcium, potassium, iron), folic acid, fatty acids, enzymes, and the unique compound 10-HDA (10-Hydroxy-2-decenoic acid). The 10-HDA is found nowhere else in nature and is believed to be responsible for many of royal jelly’s biological effects, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and potentially anti-aging properties.
People typically take royal jelly for immune system support, increased energy and reduced fatigue, skin health and anti-aging benefits, hormonal balance support (particularly during menopause), and general vitality. Research has shown promise for blood sugar regulation, cholesterol management, and exercise performance enhancement, though more human studies are needed. Royal jelly may be particularly beneficial for those experiencing chronic fatigue, anyone seeking natural immune support, women going through perimenopause or menopause, individuals looking to support skin health from within, and those interested in longevity-focused supplementation. Those with bee allergies, asthma, or other allergic conditions should consult a healthcare provider before taking royal jelly, as allergic reactions—including severe ones—can occur.
How to Choose the Right Royal Jelly Supplement
Key Ingredients to Look For
The most important marker of royal jelly quality is 10-HDA (10-Hydroxy-2-decenoic acid) content—this unique fatty acid is the scientific standard for measuring royal jelly potency and authenticity. Fresh royal jelly typically contains 4-6% 10-HDA naturally, and quality supplements should either standardize to a specific 10-HDA percentage or guarantee minimum levels (often 4% or higher). Look for products that explicitly state their 10-HDA content rather than those that simply list “royal jelly” without potency markers.
Source quality matters significantly. Royal jelly from reputable bee product specialists or established supplement brands with third-party testing tends to be more reliable. Products from New Zealand, Australia, and certified organic sources often meet higher quality standards. The processing method also affects quality—freeze-dried formulas preserve nutrients better than heat-processed alternatives, while fresh royal jelly maintains the complete nutritional profile but requires proper cold-chain handling.
Forms Compared
Capsules and softgels are the most convenient options for daily supplementation. Freeze-dried formulas offer good shelf stability without refrigeration, making them ideal for travel or those who prefer simple storage. Fresh royal jelly provides the most complete nutritional profile with all enzymes and compounds intact, but requires refrigeration, has a shorter shelf life, and features a distinctive sour-tangy taste that many find challenging. Powder forms offer versatility for mixing into smoothies or foods but may be less convenient for precise dosing. Honey-based products combine royal jelly with raw honey for improved taste and natural preservation, but typically contain lower royal jelly concentrations and may add significant sugars.
What to Avoid
Avoid products that don’t disclose their royal jelly source, processing method, or 10-HDA content—transparency is a hallmark of quality. Be wary of unusually cheap products, as they may indicate low-quality royal jelly, improper handling, or significant filler content. Skip supplements with long ingredient lists full of unnecessary fillers, artificial colors, preservatives, or sweeteners. Products stored at room temperature for extended periods (especially fresh royal jelly) may have degraded potency. Also avoid brands without third-party testing verification or those making exaggerated health claims not supported by scientific evidence.
Side Effects and Precautions
Royal jelly is generally well-tolerated by most people when taken at recommended doses, but some individuals experience digestive upset including stomach discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea, especially when first starting supplementation or taking higher doses. Taking royal jelly with food rather than on an empty stomach can minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing allows your body to adjust.
Allergic reactions are the most serious concern with royal jelly. People allergic to bees, bee stings, bee pollen, or other bee products are at elevated risk and may experience symptoms ranging from mild (itching, hives, swelling) to severe (difficulty breathing, anaphylaxis). In rare cases, royal jelly has caused fatal allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly those with pre-existing asthma. If you have any history of allergic reactions to bee products, consult your healthcare provider before trying royal jelly and consider starting with a very small test dose under medical supervision.
Those with asthma should exercise particular caution, as royal jelly has been associated with bronchospasm in some asthmatic individuals. Pregnant and nursing women should consult their healthcare provider before using royal jelly, as safety data in these populations is limited. People taking blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin) or medications that affect blood clotting should discuss royal jelly with their doctor, as it may have mild anticoagulant effects. Similarly, those on blood pressure medications should monitor their readings, as royal jelly may have hypotensive properties. Always discontinue use and seek medical attention if you experience any adverse reactions.
FAQs
How much royal jelly should I take daily?
Most supplements recommend 500-2000mg daily, typically taken with meals. Clinical studies have used doses ranging from 150mg to 4000mg daily. Start with the lower end and increase gradually based on your response and the product’s specific recommendations.
When is the best time to take royal jelly?
Take royal jelly in the morning or early afternoon for potential energy benefits. Taking it with food helps absorption and reduces the chance of digestive upset. Fresh royal jelly is often taken on an empty stomach with water for maximum absorption.
How long until I see results from royal jelly?
Some people notice energy improvements within 1-2 weeks, while benefits for skin health and overall wellness typically appear after 4-8 weeks of consistent use. Long-term supplementation (3+ months) is generally recommended for full benefits.
Can I take royal jelly if I’m allergic to honey?
Royal jelly allergies are separate from honey allergies, but if you have any bee product sensitivities, proceed with caution. Start with a very small dose and monitor for reactions. Those with severe bee allergies or asthma should consult their doctor first.
Does royal jelly need to be refrigerated?
Fresh royal jelly must be refrigerated and used within a few months. Freeze-dried capsules and softgels are shelf-stable at room temperature but benefit from cool, dry storage. Check your specific product’s storage recommendations.
Can I take royal jelly with other supplements?
Royal jelly generally combines well with other supplements. It pairs naturally with other bee products like propolis and bee pollen. However, consult your healthcare provider if you take blood thinners, diabetes medications, or drugs that affect blood pressure.
Final Verdict
For most people, NOW Foods Royal Jelly 1000mg offers the best combination of quality, standardized potency, and value from a trusted brand. Its guaranteed 10-HDA content and GMP certification give you confidence in what you’re getting.
If budget is your primary concern, Carlyle Royal Jelly 2500mg delivers excellent potency at a fraction of premium prices. For those wanting the purest form, Greenbow Organic Fresh Royal Jelly provides USDA-certified organic quality in its most natural state.
Vegans should look to Greenbow Royal Jelly 2000mg Capsules for a plant-friendly option, while anyone wanting comprehensive bee nutrition can streamline their routine with Dr. Danielle’s Bee Wise combo formula.
