Asphodel honey: rare honey as delicate as sugar

3Bee is the Nature Tech company that develops technologies for the protection of biodiversity. 3Bee Hive-Tech is 3Bee's first system for analysing the health and 'starvation' status of honeybees, environmental pests par excellence. Over time, we have developed other technologies to study and monitor all the pollinating insects and created more than 200 Oases of Biodiversity with thousands of nectariferous plants to provide them with nourishment. Thus, we want to create a virtuous circle: our beekeepers are transformed by necessity into Oasis growers and promoters of environmental biodiversity. We do not encourage massive production and intensive breeding, which have a negative impact on biodiversity and pollinators. We do, however, recognise the value of honey as a valuable symbol of the biodiversity of an environment and a tool for disseminating the commitment and protection of an area, to be consumed sparingly and with respect for the life cycle of these insects.

The Asphodelus plant is a typical Mediterranean shrub and bees collect valuable nectar from it. This plant flowers from March to May, has many roots and is also called a weed. A curious legend says that the Asphodel was a sacred plant for the Ancient Greeks, as it was customary to plant it on tombs, creating a living room for the dead. Later, in Roman times, this plant was placed in front of house doors as an omen against spells and curses. Asphodel honey, whose bees collect precious nectar from the flower, is considered a rare and prized honey. Let's see why...

After the Santoreggia honey, the Marruca honey and the Coriander honey, we now tell you about the properties and benefits of Asphodel honey. This typical Sardinian honey is very suitable for fine and delicate palates. A honey that gives a lot of energy, a bit like acacia. Perfect as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent and to prevent or help with various seasonal ailments, such as coughs or flu-like conditions. Not only that, it has excellent dermatological and purifying properties for the entire organism. A true panacea for health!

The most significant production ofAsphodel honey on the Italian peninsula comes from Sardinia, where it is particularly widespread. Asphodel honey is a very delicate honey, light in colour tending to pearly white once crystallised. To the nose, it is reminiscent of the scent of asphodel flower, almond and chamomile, while to the palate, it brings to mind the taste of candyfloss, almond milk and vanilla. A quality honey worth tasting.

Asphodel honey, as is the case for several rare and less common honeys, is not easy to find in markets or supermarkets, rather it is often found in small shops or directly from local producers. Several are the 3Bee apiarists, who make their honey production available on the Adopt a Beehive platform, the fruit of the bees' great work. Remember that honey is not stolen from bees! On the contrary, beekeepers take care of them through technology, constantly monitoring their state of health.

The information contained in this blog concerns the importance of honey as the fruit of the tireless work of bees that transforms the collected nectar (including extra-floral nectar and honeydew) into a precious food product that encompasses the biodiversity with all the countless facets present in the hive's surroundings. At an environmental level, honey is the symbol of the bee's pollination activity, flying from flower to flower to collect nectar and, in so doing, transporting pollen, becoming the vector for the pollination and reproduction of tens of thousands of plant species. Honey is still a little-known product, often devalued in its quality or sold as a panacea for all ills. Like all foods, however, it must be consumed with moderation and care as it contains a high content of simple sugars. But it is not in its basic values that its most important quality lies.

The aim of this blog is to promote and disseminate a deeper understanding of the crucial role of bees for the preservation of our ecosystem and for the continuation of scientific research directed towards the identification of more sustainable agricultural practices aiming at the regeneration of entire areas. The choice of honey goes far beyond what is written on the label. The true value of honey is linked to its method of production, whether it is respectful of bees and the ecosystems they inhabit. Favouring non-intensive beekeeping practices and promoting the best actions to support the health of the hive are the cornerstones of our activity. The beekeeper for us is not a breeder, but a true 'Grower': he cultivates, cares for and nurtures true oases of biodiversity, paying attention not only to bees, but also to ecosystems and their balance.