RHODODENDRON honey harvested from the nectar of endemic
flowers such as Rhododendrom ponticum and Rhododendrom
luteum. Locals gave it such a strange name due to its
hallucinogenic and laxative effect. It is also known as a “mad
honey”. The honey contains grayanotoxin (andromedotoxin)
which is responsible for creating the effects. The toxin is
secreted by rhododendrons for defense against herbivore
animals. In certain circumstances, honeybees collect the nectar
from that flower species and transmit the toxin into honey.
Depending on the dose, intoxication can have several
symptoms such as low blood pressure vomiting, salivation, in
some cases even loss of coordination, muscular weakness,
paresthesia and irregular heartbeat. Beekeepers try to avoid
getting such honey in their hives. However, there are
consumers around the world who prize this exotic honey. This
honey is used for medical purposes and the treatment of
various diseases.