Although scientific evidence of benefits of the swallow bird nest is still inadequate, the positive effects have been seen throughout generations. It is believed that the bioactive compound present in the chemical make up of the nest can play an important role in creating refreshment effect. Sophisticated technology such as HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) and GC-MS (Gas Chromatograph Mass Spectrophotometer) have identified such effect.

The composition of swallow bird nest is made up of 50% glycoprotein. Glycoprotein is a biomolecule composed of a protein and carbohydrate. Glycoproteins are important for immune cell recognition especially in humans. They are found in antibodies (immunoglubulins), in connective tissue, and in mucins which are secreted in respiratory and digestive tracts. So in essence, bird nests consumptions may provide health benefits, such as aiding digestion, raising libido, improving voice, alleviating asthma, increasing concentration, improving cell regeneration and an overall benefit to the immune system. In addition, the swallow bird's nest has also complete amino acid, comprising 17 important, semi important and inessential amino acids. Based on these important findings and continuously research (which has been reached to the western scientific medical world), it has presumed the swallow bird's nest may further explore to see possibilities to cop cancers, heart strikes, and even HIV/AIDS infectious disease.

One of Indonesian experts of Forestry Faculty of Bogor Institute of Agroculture found the existence of compound required for human body health, including, among others, ODA (9-octadeceonic Acid) & HAD (Hexadeceonic Acid) having characteristics in stimulating the well functioning of enzymes of human bodies to the extent that it could improve body metabolism 3-5 times more than normal case. There is a conjecture that the mineral contains of swallow nest were very effective in supporting human body

Review of scientific on edible bird's nest (from : Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Shun Wan CHAN)

Abstract: Edible bird's nest is one of the widely used health foods in Chinese communities. The market generated by it is increasing because it exhibits a lot of beneficial effects to human beings. For its high market value, fake edible bird's nest and misleading promotional description emerged. This article briefly reviews the scientific research on authentication technologies and pharmacological effects of edible bird's nest. It is expected that people's knowledge on edible bird's nest could be enhanced.

For more details please visit : http://www.hkfsta.com.hk/articles/special/article7.htm