Cherry Honey: Characteristics, Properties and Benefits

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 spring is approaching, the days are getting longer and the first flowers are starting to bloom. The awakening of nature also involves our beloved bees, who, after the wintering period, resume their explorations in search of new nectar and nourishment. Depending on the different blossoms, the bees will produce different honey, which will be characteristic of a particular time of the year.Bees on a cherry blossom.One of the earliest blossoms is certainly that of the cherry tree. This plant is much loved both for its beautiful flowers and its sweet fruits. It is not only us, however, who are attracted to this beautiful plant. The cherry tree, in fact, also has many attractions for bees. From it, in fact, they collect nectar to produce a honey that is as delicate as it is difficult to obtain.

Although the cherry tree is widespread throughout Italy, it is very difficult to obtain monofloral honey from it. Its flowering, in fact, occurs at the same time as that of other plants, including the dandelion. Moreover, flowering so early, the bees use the nectar for their own nourishment and it is complex to produce honey for our consumption. There is only a chance to obtain it where there are large cultivations of it, such as in Emilia-Romagna and Apulia. It tends to have a rather liquid consistency and a straw-yellow colour, but can vary from a light amber colour to a darker shade with reddish highlights. Crystallisation occurs slowly, changing its colour to a greyish-white shade. Taste reminiscent of cherry. Energy value of cherry honey 330 calories.

Cherry blossom honey has excellent properties for our organism. It is in fact an excellent detoxifier and, thanks to its diuretic properties, helps the kidneys in the process of eliminating waste. Another important characteristic, which it shares with every type of honey, is that it is an immediate source of energy, useful for supporting our body's energy needs. Moreover, it is rich in vitamins and minerals and is an excellent restorative. It exerts an antioxidant function, protecting our body from the negative action of free radicals and premature ageing. It has antibacterial activity and helps fight respiratory tract infections: it helps reduce sore throats, relieve coughs, stimulate the appetite and strengthen our immune system. Cherry honey is used in cosmetics.

To fully enjoy the benefits of honey, however, it is important to remember to consume only raw honey that has not been processed or altered in any way. Treatments such as pasteurisation, for example, cancel out all those elements that make this food so special and precious. Always consume honey whose provenance you know and make sure it is 100% Italian! Adopt a beehive 3Bee and discover beekeepers producing cherry honey distributed throughout Italy. Discover many other types of honey, such as the honey from sulla.