honey (मह)
About honey (मह)
Honey holds a special place in Nepal, not just as a sweet treat but also as a significant element in traditional medicine and culture. The diverse flora of Nepal, ranging from the lowlands to the high mountains, contributes to the wide variety of honey produced. Different regions boast unique flavors and properties based on the local vegetation. Honey is used in religious ceremonies, traditional remedies, and everyday cooking, reflecting its deep integration into Nepali life. Beekeeping, both traditional and modern, is a significant agricultural activity in many rural areas, providing livelihood for many families. The unique Cliff honey found in Nepal is one of its kind and is considered a national treasure. It is gathered by the Gurung people from the hives of giant bees that reside on the cliffsides of the Himalayas.
Nutritional info
These are the major micro nutrients found in honey
Seasonality
Honey production in Nepal is highly seasonal, influenced by the blooming cycles of various flowers. Generally, there are two main honey harvesting seasons: 1. **Spring (March - May):** This is the primary honey production season, as many plants and trees blossom during this time. The nectar collected during spring results in light-colored, milder-flavored honeys. 2. **Autumn (September - November):** Another honey harvesting season occurs in the autumn, often resulting in darker, more robust-flavored honey due to the change in flowering plants. The specific timing and duration of honey production can vary from region to region depending on the local climate and flora. In higher altitude regions, the honey production might have a shorter and later window.
History
The history of honey in Nepal is ancient, with evidence of traditional beekeeping practices stretching back centuries. Local communities have long harvested honey from wild bee colonies using traditional techniques, often involving ropes and ladders to reach cliff-side hives. The Gurung community in the Himalayan foothills are renowned for their annual cliff honey hunting expeditions. This hazardous practice is not just about gathering honey but is also intertwined with spiritual and cultural significance. The traditional use of honey for medicinal purposes has been passed down through generations, forming an integral part of Ayurvedic practices in Nepal. With time, modern beekeeping methods have also been introduced in Nepal, but traditional methods of honey collection continue to exist, especially in remote areas. The local honey has its own importance, both in the daily life and economy of the rural Nepalese population.