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50 Shades of Grayanotoxin

Much more than simple compounds, grayanotoxin is a natural compound that makes the Nepalese cliff honey one of a kind. This powerful neurotoxin is present in our Mad Honey and thus in the rhododendron flowers from which they are collected.



If you don’t know much about mad honey, then you’re most probably unaware of the variety of grayanotoxin that exists. Let’s dive right into it and explore the 50 shades of grayanotoxin. Grayanotoxins are also referred to as andromedotoxin, acetylandromedol or rhodotoxin.

Grayanotoxins are present in the Ericaceae family and most specifically in these plants:

  • Rhododendron

  • Pieris

  • Agarista

  • Kalmia

While the rhododendron is present in Europe or Japan and other parts of the world, with over 750 species. Only the ponticum, flavum and luteum have large amounts of grayanotoxin that can have some effect on the human body.


Grayanotoxin is present in all parts of these rhododendrons, from the stem to the nectar. It is often used in cigarettes and herbal medicines. According to this article ,there are up to 25 varieties of grayanotoxin but not all of them have psychoactive properties. The only three most potent grayanotoxin identified are the following:

  • GTX-I

  • GTX-II

  • GTX-III.

Not Your Ordinary Rhodendron Species


The Nepalese rhododendron species that grow on the majestic Annapurna carry varying concentrations of neurotoxic compounds that are cyclic diterpenes. The concentration varies according to seasons and rhododendron species.

The fact that these flowers are part of the natural habitat of the Apis Laboriosa makes it non-toxic for the foraging bees. On the other hand, bees that are force-fed do not survive after ingesting grayanotoxin.



So, how do Grayanotoxins work?


According to Inverse, grayanotoxin works by binding to voltage-gated sodium ion channels in cells.

Grayanotoxins, whether consumed in mad honey or in any part of the rhododendron, work in the human body by binding to voltage-gated sodium ion channels in cells.


The chemical makeup of grayanotoxin has been identified as a diterpene-a polyhydroxylated cyclic hydrocarbon that does not contain nitrogen. As we mentioned earlier, grayanotoxins bind to voltage-dependent channels of sodium and alter their functions by breaking up the usual pattern of transmission. By blocking sodium channels, calcium ions convert into sensitive cells such as nerve, heart, and muscle cells.



Grayanotoxin II is present in the Mad Honey since the bees forage on rhododendrons which are present along with Annapurna. Since their tiny bodies are in perfect harmony with the ingestion of this compound, Nepalese honey possesses potent properties which are safe for humans to consume.


This is the most basic explanation behind the potency of the Nepalese nectar yet, we kept it simple for readers to get an insight into the making of mad honey. After all, knowledge is power!

Myths


To this day, there are many myths and legends surrounding the mad honey due to its composition. The Persian King Mithridates had apparently defeated his Roman foes by utilizing mad honey combs as bait. Since the troop was having a bit of psychoactive experience, they were easily defeated.

Moral of the story: Mad honey is intended for relaxation and not for waging wars. Like any other food with psychoactive properties, mad honey is consumed as means for relaxation and for enjoyable ‘highs’.


What to know about the grayanotoxin in Mad Honey?

The amazing thing about grayanotoxin is that once it gets into your metabolism it is excreted within 24 hours. So, if you feel slightly nauseous, remember that it will not last for more than a day.


As we emphasized in our FAQs, the best dosage for your first tasting is one teaspoon for medicinal benefits and 2 to more for psychoactive benefits. A gradual increase in intake is your safest bet. Since mad honey takes some time to be ingested, it is best not to be gluttonous in case you don't experience the effects quickly.

The level of euphoria is directly linked to the ingestion of mad honey. The aim when consuming mad honey is either medicinal or recreational. Yet, individuals particularly first-timers should be more careful as the distribution of grayanotoxin is never homogenous within honey. The effects of mad honey depend on several factors such as lifestyle and other psychoactive experiences.


Note: A teaspoon a day will not cause any psychoactive effects but simply boost up your immunity. It is commonly used among the Gurung tribesmen as a sort of health supplement.

Psychoactive users are more likely to know that a small amount of mad honey is sufficient.

As we mentioned in our blog article, Better Than a Pot of Gold, mad honey is not loved only for its psychoactive benefits. It is also used for its health benefits, our customers use it as means to combat anxiety, insomnia and as a booster. Evidence shows that products that contain grayanotoxin can help with hypertension and diabetes.

Love the fast delivery!! Taking since +2 weeks now and it definitely improved my sleep quality and day mood :)))) As I am on other medication, I only take 1 spoon. Taste is stronger than other honeys. I really love it. Thank you.
-BRO W

So are you curious and bold enough to taste this sweet and crazy nectar straight from the Himalayas?

If you're skeptical about its benefits, take a look at our reviews.


Learn more









Rhododendron flower- The flower that gives Mad honey its 'crazy' attributes.

To behold the Himalayan Apis Laboriosa foraging on the Rhododendron flowers and convert the collected nectar into Mad Honey is a one-of-a-kind experience. These highland bees possess genes that are perfectly compatible with the ‘invasive’ flowers which carry grayanotoxin.


The honey produced with grayanotoxin components is a precious nectar that is usually hard to find. And unless you are getting it from here, there is no guarantee that commercial mad honey is not over-processed or simply altered with cheaper kinds of honey.


According to the golden rule of sweetness, the value of honey can be deciphered by the following:

  • The overall quality ( raw, pure, or altered).

  • The region and climate in which the bees operate.

  • And the flora and fauna.

Lali Guransh, an Atypical National Flower

The story behind the production of mad honey is fascinating and unusual. Mad honey is not only about the bees, the honey hunters, but also much about the magic of the cosmos. The Rhododendron flower aka Lali Guransh, the national flower of Nepal largely contributes to the 'mad' properties of mad honey.

Rhododendrons are known for being noxious to humans, however, honey produced from the latter has psychoactive attributes and is largely used for its medicinal and recreational properties in Nepal.



Rhododendron stems are even used in dishes as the plant is believed to possess curative properties. The honey produced from the lali guransh is said to be effective in treating anxiety, insomnia, diabetes, and much more.

Grayanotoxins are toxins produced by rhododendrons and plants of the Ericaceae family. Ericaceaes consist of flowering plants that flourish in infertile growing conditions. This type of plant can be recognized by its leaves which are generally arranged along the stems; flowers usually grow in solitary or clusters with 5 petals, 5 sepals, and 10 stamens.


The Mad Honey Bees that Consume Grayanotoxin

Some types of rhododendron can contain up to 25 different types of grayanotoxin. The giant bees have become accustomed to the existing potent neurotoxin of the Lali Guransh and to them, it is merely a food source; the nectar is carried to the hive where potent mad honey is produced in oblivion.





Contrary to most bees who cannot ingest the rhododendron nectar, the Apis laboriosa has adapted to the highlands and has developed some sort of immunity to grayanotoxin. Hence, the bees are not intoxicated and neither are the humans who consume the Nepalese Mad Honey.


Rhododendron Luteum and Rhododendron Ponticum


The Rhododendrons are grown almost everywhere across the globe, however, it is essential that the giant Nepalese bees forage on the Rhododendron Luteum and Rhododendron Ponticum to produce what is known as mad honey.


The factor that primarily differentiates Nepalese mad honey from the Turkish lies in its conception - the rhododendron flowers flourish independently and are not cultivated in the Nepalese region as they are part of the scenery like the giant honey bees.


Seasons Influence the Potency of Mad Honey


The giant honey bees produce three types of honey; depending on the season, the level of grayanotoxin varies. The most potent form of honey is produced from the flowers at higher altitudes and is one of the rarest and most luxurious types of honey in the world. You can try it out here.


The honey that is harvested in autumn is cheaper since it is created from the Rhododendron present at all sites. This honey is more common and is sold at an average price. It is mainly harvested during late spring and autumn. It is renowned for its regenerative properties.

The most potent form of honey is produced from the Rhododendron flowers in Spring, at higher altitudes and is one of the rarest and most luxurious types of honey in the world.


The Mad Honey Limited Reserve


According to our customer reviews, The Mad Honey Limited Reserve, harvested in spring 2021, possesses a higher concentration of grayanotoxin leading to an elevated experience of the mad honey tasting.

Mad honey that is harvested in Autumn is cheaper since it is produced from the Rhododendron flowers present at all sites.

When it comes to the honey itself, the difference in taste can be as subtle as in the wine-tasting world. For instance, Manuka honey has a fuller consistency and an earthy, mineral-y taste whereas pure Himalayan mad honey has a slightly bitter aftertaste and has a more watery consistency which is why it spreads easily on the skin.

Depending on the harvest season, the potency of Mad Honey varies. See our FAQs to learn more.


If you’re fascinated by the lush scenery created by Rhododendron flowers, we recommend reading the following:



Note: We recommend experimenting with our two products, the Himalayan Mad Honey and the Limited Reserve 2021 Mad honey to assess both and appreciate your favorite.













The Higher the Mountain, The Madder the Honey.

Mad Honey (पागल मह), extracted from the perilous mountains of Annapurna is not to be compared with your local honey pots. If Pooh Bear could get his hands on some of this sweetness, he would be a lot less morose, for sure. The name itself might scare off some of you but it is most definitely worth a try. Mad Honey boasts itself for its psychoactive attributes. Mad Honey is not for the faint-hearted and if you’re one who loathes trips, we would certainly suggest trying out Mad Honey for the simple fact that it is purely organic and helps with sleeping, anxiety, stress levels and hypertension amongst other issues.


Psychoactive Honey from the Deadly Annapurna Mountains


You have probably heard of the Nepalese honey that makes people trip. Although it's a new product on the market, honey from Annapurna is likely to become one of the favorites of psychoactive adepts. Annapurna means the giver of perfect food in Sanskrit, so it is no surprise that the quality of mad honey extracted from those heights is superior to others. Even though it is known as the deadliest mountain to climb, the locals have stuck to their tradition of collecting Apis Dorsata Laboriosa aka the giant honey bees’ combs for years.


The fact that Mad Honey is harvested through a delicate and rather risky process makes it one of its kind. There's a reason why the Nepalese call it ''cliff honey''. The natives known as the Gurung or Tamu people have used mad honey for centuries in sacred rituals, for recreational, medicinal, and even military purposes. The Gurung people are believed to eat it before breakfast for that ethereal sensation throughout the day.



Mad Honey Properties


Mad Honey is a rare variety of honey. Due to the fact that it is produced by the Apis Dorsata Laboriosa, the taste is more bitter with a darker reddish color than regular honey. Mad honey actually smells different due to minimal processing. Some people refer to the smell as 'funky'. Honey connoisseurs will quickly distinguish the taste of Mad honey as unique.



Low doses of Mad Honey cause euphoria and lightheartedness. Mad honey should be consumed with caution. This unique Nepalese honey is renowned for its virtues; it not only treats anxiety but also reduces stress levels, pain, migraines, hypertension, and even promotes better sleep.


Rhododendron Flowers & The Nepalese Mad Honey


Mad honey is collected from the nectar of the indigenous Nepalese national Rhododendron flower which is different from the other hundreds of species. This flower can only be found in limited quantities in a few regions namely Nepal, Caucasus and Southern Turkey.

Some also exist in Japan, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and a few American states.


Rhododendron in Nepal is known as Gurung and this is exactly why mad honey hunters carry the name Gurung. There are around 700 species of rhododendron flowers, however only two or three include the so-called grayanotoxin in their nectars.


The giant bees forage on these stunning flowers and their grayanotoxin-containing nectar to produce toxin-laced honey in their hives. Interestingly enough, grayanotoxins have no effects on the bees while high doses of the same could be fatal for humans.


What To Expect From Your First Tasting?


In 2016, David Caprara at VICE, described the honey as being similar to weed. He was advised by the expert honey hunters to consume two teaspoons of the sweet liquid and felt high 15 minutes later. He described the experience as a mental and bodily high. Unlike the usual psychedelic, Caprara claimed that the mad honey high was warmer and more relaxing overall. He felt lighter and happier hours later.


Why is The Mad Honey® superior?


Our brand produces genuine, certified organic Mad Honey. We work with the Honey Hunters directly to make sure that quality product is being delivered to your doorstep. Our hunters take considerable risks to collect this unique nectar for you at an altitude of 3,000 meters.

I absolutely LOVE this honey and of course the medicinal properties is the PRIMARY reason for ingestion as I live a Holistic Lifestyle therefore Health is Wealth and just to add if it makes you feel super good in the process then all the better....I look forward to ordering MORE honey from you in the future in LARGER quantities.-Latoya

With the high rate of brain drain occurring in Nepali rural villages, we ensure that this tradition is kept alive and that our Gurungs' connection with their ancestors is sustained. Mass production often entails the loss of quality and extinction of natural resources. In order not to render the highly potent mad honey extinct, collection takes place on a yearly basis. Mad Honey is tested and certified by the Government of Nepal.


How to use Mad Honey for a strong immune system and a better day?

Add 1 teaspoon of Mad Honey to your milk or tea in the morning.



Note: Higher doses of Mad Honey might cause dizziness, blurred vision, increased blood pressure, nausea and diarrhea.


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