In the mist-shrouded, rugged cliffs of the Himalayan foothills, an ancient and perilous tradition unfolds. High above the world, native Gurung hunters risk their lives to harvest the hives of the world’s largest honeybee Apis laboriosa, their prize is not just normal honey, it is a muddy, browny- reddish, psychoactive honey with medicinal properties known as Mad Honey. A cliff honey that is prized for its high value and is traditionally used as a medicine believed for its potent healing properties.
This is not the honey you find on a supermarket shelf or not the ordinary honey harvested from fields. This mad honey is from the Himalayas and hence also referred to as the Himalayan Honey or Himalayan Mad Honey. The honey has got its name with close association to the Himalayas from where it is harvested and for the ones who harvest it.
What Is Himalayan Mad Honey?
Himalayan Mad Honey or just Mad Honey also known as the Cliff Honey, Rhododendron Honey and Gurung Honey is a type of honey produced primarily in Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of Turkey. The nectar is primarily collected from Rhododendron Flowers, however there are some wildflowers that bees forage on along with the Rhododendrons species (Rhododendron luteum and Rhododendron ponticum).
These rhododendron species contain a special class of neurotoxins called grayanotoxins. In high doses, these toxins can be life threatening, however, the Himalayan harvesters understand the medicinal application of this honey and have been using it since centuries. The mild dosage gives effects that has been harnessed for the therapeutic and spiritual purposes by the famous honey harvesters known as Gurungs of Nepal.
The honey itself is distinct:
- Color: Dark amber, brownish yellow
- Taste: A complex taste, initially too sweet but bitter and sharp at the end. Scalds throat and food pipe if harvested honey has a strong Grayanotoxin profile.
- Texture: Bubbly, smooth and viscous
Ancient Healing Practices of the Himalayan Mad Honey
In absence of modern medicine, people high in the Himalayas are still compelled to follow the ancient practices of healing with the Mad Honey. The ancient practitioners understood the concept of microdosing for health and spiritual benefits and understood the dosage guidelines. They practiced safe use of Himalayan Mad Honey as they must have experienced side effects of overdosing. They had a slang, ”Two teaspoons for health, three for hell.”
Here are some popular use of Himalayan Mad Honey following the ancient and traditional use for health.
- Natural Energy and Libido Booster: Small amounts of Mad Honey was used as a natural remedy to administer the effects such as fatigue and enhance stamina. The natural sugars present in honey along with enzymes and bio-compounds gave enough energy to endure physical workload as well as sexual activity. Additionally, Mad Honey was used by men to stay sexually energetic and robust. Thus, it has always been considered as an aphrodisiac which is attributed to the Grayanotoxin profile, known to create mental euphoria and drive sexual performance.
- Powerful Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory: Himalayan Mad Honey packed with Polyphenols, Enzymes, Natural sugars and Trace Minerals within it, can support several health objectives. Polyphenols the natural plant based antioxidant protects cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. The oxidative stress and chronic inflammation is linked with heart disease, certain cancers and age-related macular degeneration. These issues can be neutralized or reduced with the help of Phenolic compounds, flavonoids and other phytochemicals present in honey.
- Treatment for Hypertension and High Blood Pressure: Mad Honey is popular among the Gurungs for treating one specific health alignment which is high blood pressure. The Grayanotoxin present in mad honey works as a vasodilator, helping relax the blood vessels and ensures smooth blood flow. Although it is not medically recommended, there are people around the world still choosing Mad Honey as a natural remedy for high blood pressure.
- Relief from Gastrointestinal Issues: For generations, the use of Himalayan Mad Honey has been practiced to treat gastrointestinal issues and digestive alignments. The bioactive proteins present in honey help in digestion by breaking down sugars and starches, and help convert glucose into hydrogen peroxide, giving honey its antibacterial properties. Thus, Himalayan Mad Honey has been used as a tonic to support gut health and soothe digestive discomfort. Furthermore, it has been used to treat stomach ailments, including indigestion, acid reflux and stomach flu. Its potent antibacterial properties are thought to help balance gut flora and combat pathogens like H. pylori.
- Psychological and Spiritual Use: Beyond medicinal purpose, the use of Himalayan Mad Honey has been extended over the domains of psychology and spiritual practices. The ancient Gurung Shamans used this honey for treating mental disorders and spiritual healing by microdosing the patients. They used the sedative property of Himalayan mad honey to put patients into the state of trance and applied neurological healing methods for heightened cognitive processing. The mild psychoactive effects involving euphoria, relaxation and a warm, light-bodied sensation were also used to facilitate meditation, relieve stress and anxiety, and promote a sense of profound well-being.
Final Words
A natural healing journey with Himalayan Mad Honey is possible but we don’t suggest it as your casual medication. Although the health and therapeutic use of this honey was practiced in the past, people at present times are using it as a means of recreation, a way to enjoy and chill. But there are possible dangers of it that one must be aware of which comes with the overdose of it.
For the informed, respectful and cautious seeker, it can offer a unique window into holistic wellness, a blend of physical relief, mental relaxation and spiritual connection. But this gift demands reverence.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Himalayan Mad Honey contains potent neurotoxins and can be dangerous. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before considering the use of Mad Honey for any medicinal purpose, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication.
