Article From Sunpower Wellness

Origin of Bird's Nest

Edible bird's nest first appeared in historical records of the Tang dynasty in China, during the reign of the Empress Wu(circa 626-706). From the historical annals, it shows clearly that edible bird's nest was already a highly-prized delicacy in the palace more than a thousand years ago.

Swallows and swiftlets



Bird's nest are produced by swiftlets. These birds are from the same family as the common swallow, but they are smaller in size, averaging only 9mm in length, while swallows can grow up to 17mm. Another difference is that the tails of swiflets are shorter with feathers that are rectangular in shape, while swallows have a longer tail and feathers that shaped like scissors.

Swiflets are found predominantly in south-east Asia, in countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam and Thailand. Small colonies of swiflets may also be found in some remote areas of India and Sri Lanka.

Constituents

Swallows make their nest from grass and mud, and their nest are certainly not edible. In contrast, swiflets make their nest using their saliva, therefore the highly valued edible bird's nest are actually the dried saliva of swiftlets.

Chemical analysis of edible bird's nest reveals that the main constituents are water-soluble proteins (~60%), moisture (~10%), and traces of fat, carbohydrates, calcium, potassium and sodium.

Benefits

The benefits of taking edible bird's nest are still not scientifically proven, although it was claimed that it contains elements which can stimulate cell growth and are beneficial to elderly people recovering from illness.

Traditionally it is believed that bird's nest can strengthen the lungs and pancreas to prolong life also in slowing down the aging process. It is especially valued by ladies for its reported properties of making the skin delicate and glow radiantly.

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