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Medicinal Mad Honey

What is Rhododendron Toxin?

By Rashmi Kandel

2 min read. Updated 11:09 PM, May 30, 2025

Chemical representation of Grayanotoxin

Why is mad honey “mad”? And why is it the most exceptional and dearly sought-after honey in the world? Because Mad honey has a cause for its reputation, i.e., Rhodotoxin.

Rhodotoxin is a naturally occurring compound in mad honey that comes from the beautiful rhododendron flowers, hence also known as Rhododendron Toxin. Although rhodotoxin is shown as the bad guy, it serves impeccable benefits to your body and mind.

Understanding Rhodotoxin

Rhodotoxins or Grayanotoxins are a group of neurotoxins found in certain plants, like Rhododendron species and Leucothoe grayana. You can also find these toxins in honey made from the nectar of these plants, which is often called “mad honey.” 

Interestingly, in some regions of Nepal and Turkey, people use these toxins as recreational drugs or traditional medicine.

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Rhodotoxin: The Source of Psychedelic Magic 

So far, you know that the neurotoxin is behind the psychedelic properties of mad honey. Many other honeys lack this one outstanding compound, so mad honey comes in to fill the gap.

Here are a few psychedelic effects that you are likely to experience if you ever stumble on taking mad honey (caused solely by Rhodotoxin aka grayanotoxin)

Improved Mental State

Mad honey can solve sleeping issues! The natural compound rhodotoxin relaxes your muscles, softens your jaws and lets you breathe. Breathe calmly. 

So because of its relaxing properties, people report that they have fewer problems sleeping. Or, best of all, they bid adieu to their sleeping disorders. 

It’s true that bad sleep comes from unmanaged emotional baggage. Once you start taking mad honey, you will realize that it is significantly creating a shift in your emotional pattern.

Note: You shouldn’t completely rely on mad honey for better mental health if the pattern is consistent and usual. Please visit your neuropsychiatrist. And also, with mad honey, try to exercise and eat healthy.

Heightened Euphoria

One of the most remarkable effects of hallucinogenic honey ingestion is the surge of intense happiness and euphoria that can wash over users. 

It’s as if a wave of joy and contentment engulfs them, leading to a state of blissful euphoria. For some, this feeling can be so powerful that it becomes the focal point of their mad honey experience.

Unique Lookout for Reality

Mad Honey has the remarkable ability to induce a unique perception of reality in those who consume it. This phenomenon can be both intriguing and striking because it is one of the few experiences that change your outlook on life.

One of the most striking effects of psychoactive honey ingestion is the heightened perception of colours and the distortion of shapes. Colours may suddenly appear more vibrant and intense than usual. Suddenly, the most ordinary objects burst with vivid hues.

Shapes may also take on an otherworldly quality, with edges seeming to warp and bend, creating a surreal visual experience. Minutes may stretch into what feels like hours, or conversely, hours may pass in what seems like mere moments.

Creative Energy

Imagine gulping only one tablespoon of real mad honey, and the next moment, you are filled with creativity. We humans have lots of baggage going on in our minds. Pleasant or unpleasant. Due to this, we cannot always fully give in to the work that we are setting a foot. 

With madness, you become relaxed and let new perceptions come to you. Often, artists are hesitant to show their craft, afraid of judgment. But you let aside your fear for the time and lost yourself in the creativity. 

Many artists and writers share that they have felt their best artistic selves after taking mad honey. Well, you don’t even have to be one with a brush or pain; you can explore your creativity. 

So take a cup of tea, coffee, or just plain water, and add a tablespoon of mad honey. And keep slurping while you create magic.

Precautions Before Consuming Mad Honey

  • Start with a Small Amount: If you’re new to mad honey, begin with a very small amount to gauge your sensitivity to its effects. This can help you avoid potential overdoses or severe reactions.
  • Understand the Dosage: Be aware of recommended dosage of mad honey, if available, and do not exceed them. Overconsumption can lead to dangerous consequences.
  • Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications, consult with a healthcare provider before trying mad honey. Certain medical conditions and medications can interact negatively with honey's effects.

FAQs:

How toxic are rhododendrons to humans?
Rhododendrons are highly toxic if ingested, as their leaves, flowers, and nectar contain grayanotoxins that can cause nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, and even life-threatening complications.

What does grayanotoxin do to the body?
Grayanotoxins bind to sodium channels in cells, keeping them open and disrupting normal nerve and muscle function, leading to dizziness, slowed heart rate, and cardiovascular issues.

Are rhododendrons toxic to the touch?
Touching rhododendrons usually isn’t harmful, but their sap can sometimes cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions. The main risk is ingestion, not contact.

Do all rhododendrons have grayanotoxin?
Most rhododendron species contain grayanotoxins, though levels vary widely depending on species and environment, making some more dangerous than others.

Is honey made from rhododendrons poisonous?
Yes, honey made from rhododendron nectar—known as “mad honey”—can be poisonous, causing dizziness, low blood pressure, and hallucinations if consumed in excess.

 

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Rashmi Kandel

Founder and Author at Medicinal Mad Honey | Himalayan Giant Bee & wild honey Researcher

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