Last Updated on June 22, 2021 by Sindhu
Eucalyptus honey is the honey that is produced by the bees gathering the nectar from eucalyptus blossoms and also sometimes the honeydew present on the bark of these trees. It is widely produced in Australia and South Africa.
What does eucalyptus honey taste like
Eucalyptus honey, being mono-floral honey (comes only from one type of blossom) has a stronger taste than regular honey. It is bold in taste with tones of butterscotch and of course menthol because of eucalyptus compounds. And also it is less sweet when compared to regular honey.
Some people may find it has a bit of bitter or medicinal aftertaste because of the eucalyptus flavor.
Apart from the type of eucalyptus tree, the region from which the honey is made also greatly influences its taste and flavor.
A little bit of eucalyptus tree
Eucalyptus trees are one of the fastest-growing trees and they are native to Australia. They mainly flourish in the temperate regions of the Australian coast. Later they were introduced to other countries with suitable weather conditions such as Mediterranean countries, India, South Africa, and a few other American countries.
Koala bears munching on the eucalyptus shoots is the picture many can imagine when they hear eucalyptus. But in fact, they eat only the leaves and leave all the blossoms to bees.
Eucalyptus trees are in full bloom starting winter to spring and that is the best time for bees to forage all the nectar from the beautiful flowers.
The fresh honey harvested at the end of the season is generally light and transparent. But with the high fructose content in this honey, it starts to crystallize shortly.
To soften the crystallized honey, just place the honey jar in a bowl of warm water for 15 minutes and the honey will start to liquify.
How to consume eucalyptus honey
Eucalyptus honey is best consumed raw and unfiltered for all the health benefits it contains. It can be used as a sweetener for health drinks, hot teas, cocktails, or baked goods. Or it can be used as a spread on toast.
Some even don’t mind having a spoon or two just as a dessert to satisfy the sugar cravings.
Benefits of eucalyptus honey
Just like regular honey, eucalyptus honey also has a bunch of health benefits.
- Anti-inflammatory– Honey is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and it helps in reducing inflammation in the body. That makes honey an excellent substitute for sugar in healthy drinks and smoothies.
- Relieves cold and flu symptoms – Both honey and eucalyptus are used in various remedies when it comes to respiratory problems such as cold, cough, or flu. With eucalyptus honey having both properties, it makes an excellent decongestant and is very effective in relieving the symptoms of the flu.
- Anti-septic & Antibacterial – This type of honey helps in healing wounds, cuts, abrasions, insect bites, and sores much faster than regular honey. This is because of its antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
- Antioxidant – Eucalyptus honey is also a good antioxidant and hence helps in improving overall health with regular consumption. This also aids in improving immunity in a natural way.
- Treats digestive disorders – Since honey is already processed by honey bees, it is easier to digest and hence used in treating digestive issues such as constipation, bloating, and gastritis.
- Bone-related problems– Eucalyptus honey and eucalyptus oil share a few similarities when it comes to bone and ligament health. Just like when eucalyptus oil is massaged topically, it helps with muscle pain relief, honey helps with internal health issues like sprained ligaments and rheumatoid problems.
- Eucalyptus honey also helps in controlling diabetes and high blood pressure problems.
Word of caution before consuming eucalyptus honey
- As eucalyptus honey contains pollen, anyone who is allergic to eucalyptus pollen should be extremely careful before consuming this honey.
- Most of the honey varieties which are in raw form are generally not advised for pregnant women. The same goes with this honey. And also it is said that eucalyptus oil is not good for baby growth. Hence extra caution is needed for both pregnant women and also breastfeeding moms when it comes to eucalyptus honey.
- Sometimes honey contains a certain bacteria which is very harmful to infants who are less than a year old. That is the reason honey should never be fed to infants.
- Unlike regular honey, monofloral honey should be consumed in limited quantities. Because certain compounds are present in concentrated forms and may lead to health problems when consumed in very large quantities.
Where to buy Eucalyptus honey
The best honey definitely comes from Australia which you can find online or in some of the health stores.
Coming to the United States, the central and south coast regions of California state are known for producing the best eucalyptus honey.
Many of the sellers make their honey available online. You can even have a look at local farmers’ markets, where you will be able to taste the honey before purchasing.
Rundown
Eucalyptus honey is produced by honey bees when pollinating eucalyptus blossoms. Coming mainly from Australia and South Africa this honey has a darker color, yet not as sweet as regular honey. It has a hint of caramel and butterscotch taste along with menthol from eucalyptus and it has enormous health benefits.
