Mad Honey

Mad honey, produced by bees from the nectar of rhododendron flowers, contains a naturally occurring toxin called grayanotoxin. Consuming even a small amount of mad honey can lead to a range of symptoms, including dizziness, nausea, vomiting, sweating, and a tingling sensation. In higher doses, it can induce hallucinations and even loss of consciousness.

Grayanotoxin

Grayanotoxins are produced by Rhododendron. The toxicity of grayanotoxin is derived from its ability to interfere with voltage-gated sodium channels located in the cell membrane of neurons. Prolonged sodium channel activation and cell depolarization leads to overstimulation of the central nervous system.

Effects

The most common clinical symptoms include various cardiovascular effects, nausea and vomiting, and a change in consciousness. The cardiovascular effects may include hypotension (low blood pressure) and various cardiac rhythm disorders such as sinus bradycardia (slow regular heart rhythm), bradyarrhythmia (slow irregular heart rhythm) and partial or complete atrioventricular block.