{
  "id": 4752404,
  "title": "'Mad honey' that can stop your heart is being sold online",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/28/mad-honey-that-can-stop-your-heart-is-being-sold-online",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-28T09:17:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Hacker News",
    "slug": "hacker-news",
    "url": "https://phys.org/news/2026-08-mad-honey-heart-sold-online.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In recent years, cases of individuals consuming a type of honey known as \"mad honey\" have led to life-threatening heart complications. This honey, locally referred to as \"bhir mauri ko maha,\" originates from the Himalayan cliff bee that forages on rhododendron flowers. These flowers carry a toxin called grayanotoxin, which is concentrated in the honey and can cause heart rate to drop dangerously low and blood pressure to collapse. The Nepali Gurung people have traditionally used this honey for centuries, but its sale online has brought it into contact with a wider global audience. Medical professionals have noted an increasing number of poisoning cases, primarily among middle-aged men who consume the honey for its perceived health benefits. The toxin interferes with the heart's electrical signals, causing a slow heart rate and a potential for a life-threatening situation. Treatment typically involves intravenous fluids and the drug atropine to restore a normal heart rhythm. Cases have been reported in Nepal, South Korea, France, and Qatar, highlighting the need for increased awareness and understanding of the risks associated with consuming mad honey.",
  "summary": null,
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}