Bird's nest (yanwo)

Also called: bird's nest, yanwo, edible bird's nest

Nests made by swiftlets from their saliva, cleaned, cooked and eaten as a soup or drink; popular in China, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.

Why people take it: Skin, immunity, recovery and during pregnancy.
What the evidence says: There is very little research in people. Nutritionally it is mostly protein, in small amounts per serving.
Be careful: Very expensive and often faked or treated with chemicals (for example dyed "blood nests" with high nitrite levels). Can cause allergic reactions. Buy only from trusted sellers with clear labels.
In food: Eaten as a sweet soup.

Other most popular

Ginseng (Asian / Korean)Astragalus (huangqi)Reishi (lingzhi)Cordyceps (dongchong xiacao)Goji berries (gouqi)Red yeast rice (hongqu)Glucosamine (and chondroitin)Folic acid

Common questions

What is Bird's nest?

Nests made by swiftlets from their saliva, cleaned, cooked and eaten as a soup or drink; popular in China, Hong Kong and Southeast Asia.

Why do people take Bird's nest?

Skin, immunity, recovery and during pregnancy.

Does Bird's nest work?

There is very little research in people. Nutritionally it is mostly protein, in small amounts per serving.

Is Bird's nest safe?

Very expensive and often faked or treated with chemicals (for example dyed "blood nests" with high nitrite levels). Can cause allergic reactions. Buy only from trusted sellers with clear labels.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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