Mad Honey Documentary

The Himalayan bees (Apis laboriosa), the largest in their species, live between 2500 to 3000 meters above sea level and are mainly found in the Himalayas. The Himalayan bees produce a unique honey when feeding on Rhododendron, a high altitude flower. The honey, widely known as Mad Honey, contains grayanotoxins and when ingested it can have an intoxicating effect on humans. Honey hunters in Nepal often risk their safety to collect the honey in two seasons. They climb down steep cliffs, using ropes and baskets made from bamboo and other local flora. The honey not only has recreational uses, but is also administered to treat colds, flu, stomach issues and other health concerns. This participatory documentary explores the culture and tradition of honey harvesting in Nepal's Lamjung region, exploring its various uses and examining its intoxicating effects on humans.