Reported about 1 year ago
On July 5, 2024, Gurung people from Nepal are risking their lives on cliff walls to harvest the 'mad honey' that causes hallucinations. Due to increasing global warming, the harvest of these rare honeycombs has become scarce, making it harder for the Gurung community to sustain themselves. The honey is produced by the giant Himalayan bees collecting nectar from rhododendron flowers containing 'Grayanotoxin.' Consuming this 'mad honey' can induce relaxation and euphoria in small amounts, but in excess can lead to dizziness, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, and even convulsions. Despite various plants containing Grayanotoxin, honey from different regions like Taiwan is less likely to cause such effects compared to honey from Turkey and Nepal. Gurung people, who earn by selling this unique honey, are facing challenges due to climate change affecting bee populations and honey production.
Source: YAHOO