Real Mad Honey
Mad Honey is one of the rarest natural products in the world. This wild honey is harvested exclusively in the Himalayas of Nepal and the Black Sea region of Turkey, in areas where rhododendrons naturally produce grayanotoxins. These compounds give the honey its distinctive character: a mild, relaxing effect that local communities have valued for centuries.
At Avalon, we exclusively sell Real Mad Honey, the only brand that has every batch analyzed via LC-MS/MS in certified laboratories. The Nepalese variety is more potent and suited for experienced users, while the Turkish variety is milder and a good choice for a first experience. The Try Out set contains both varieties so you can taste the difference yourself.
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Mad Honey: rare wild honey from Nepal and Turkey
Mad Honey, known as "deli bal" in Turkey, is one of the most extraordinary honey varieties in existence. What sets it apart from regular honey is the presence of grayanotoxins, natural compounds derived from the nectar of specific rhododendron species. In low doses, these substances can produce a pleasant, mildly euphoric feeling and contribute to a sense of relaxation.
How and where is Mad Honey harvested?
In Nepal, the Gurung, a mountain people with centuries-old traditions, harvest Mad Honey twice a year on cliff faces at altitudes between 2,500 and 3,500 meters. The giant honey bee Apis laboriosa builds its nests on near-vertical rock walls. Honey hunters climb using handmade bamboo poles and rope ladders, a practice passed down through generations. In 2016, VICE released a documentary about this harvesting process, after which global interest in Mad Honey surged dramatically.
In Turkey, particularly in the provinces of Rize and Trabzon along the Black Sea coast, honey is collected by small family beekeepers. The hives are situated in remote mountain areas, far from modern agriculture and pollution. The Turkish variety has a longer documented history stretching back to antiquity. Xenophon described in 401 BC how his soldiers fell ill after eating honey in the Colchis region.
Grayanotoxins: the active compounds
Grayanotoxins, also called rhodotoxins, are diterpenoids that occur naturally in the nectar and leaves of plants in the Ericaceae family, including rhododendrons and azaleas. They affect sodium channels in nerve and muscle cells, temporarily altering signal transmission. In low doses, this can lead to relaxation, a mild tingling sensation throughout the body, and a gentle shift in consciousness. Higher doses may cause nausea, dizziness, and heart palpitations.
Real Mad Honey has every batch analyzed for grayanotoxin concentrations using LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry). Measured values for the Nepalese variety are Grayanotoxin I (11,800 μg/kg) and Grayanotoxin III (4,400 μg/kg). The Turkish variety contains Trichotoxin I (374 μg/kg) and Trichotoxin III (992 μg/kg), which explains its milder character.
Nepal vs. Turkey: which variety suits you?
The Nepalese Mad Honey has a deep amber color and a stronger effect due to its higher grayanotoxin concentration. Harvested at a minimum of 3,500 meters altitude, this variety is best suited for those who already have experience with Mad Honey. The Turkish variety is lighter in color, milder in taste, and contains significantly lower concentrations of active compounds. For a first experience, Turkish Mad Honey 50 grams is the logical starting point. Those who want to compare both varieties should consider the Try Out set (50+50 grams).
Dosage and safe use
Always start with half to one teaspoon (2-5 grams) and wait at least two hours before considering taking more. Experienced users typically take one to two teaspoons. Never combine Mad Honey with alcohol, MAO inhibitors, or other psychoactive substances. Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not recommended. People with cardiovascular conditions or low blood pressure should exercise extra caution. When in doubt, consult a doctor first. Mad Honey is not intended as a medicine.
Storage
Store Mad Honey at room temperature, in a dry and dark place, preferably in the original glass jar. Do not refrigerate. Crystallization is a natural process in unprocessed honey and does not affect quality. You can gently re-liquefy the honey by placing the jar in a water bath heated to a maximum of 40°C (104°F).
Legality
Mad Honey is legally available in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France, and Spain. It does not fall under the Opium Act or equivalent legislation in these countries. If you live outside the EU, always check your local import regulations before ordering.
Want to learn more about the effects, history, and traditional uses of Mad Honey? Read our article on the Avalon blog. Questions about our products or dosage? Reach out via customer support. Avalon Magic Plants has been supplying Mad Honey for over 15 years with a focus on quality and safety.