Marruca honey: characteristics and properties Rare honey

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. In this way, 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 marruca is a thorny, little-known shrub. Widespread mainly in hilly areas and central Italy. It has flowers with yellow petals and flowers from May to July. Its botanical name is Paliurus spina-christi. In antiquity, this plant was often heard of. In fact, it is said that due to its thorny shrub, it was used as a fence to protect pastures. It is also called 'Christ's thorn', since a legend says that it was used to create Christ's crown of thorns. Last but not least, the Marruca was used as an infusion and coffee substitute.

Marruca honey is not very well known and considered one of the rare and precious honeys. It is amber-coloured and tends to crystallise quickly. Smell and aroma are of medium intensity with caramel notes. This honey is suitable for those who like a sweet, medium intense caramel flavour and to be combined with cheeses such as pecorino or blue cheese.

Marruca honey has several properties and benefits and among these it is said to be an excellent anti-inflammatory. It also has diuretic properties and like all honeys has strong restorative properties. It is also said that this honey is suitable for combating oily skin. So if you are looking for a honey that can be a good support for inflammation, help the intestinal system, give energy and a good support against skin blemishes, the Honeys of Marruca is perfect for you.

The rare and prized Marruca honey is a symbol of the biodiversity of the Italian territory, from northern Italy (excluding the plains), central Italy, and southern Italy all the way to Basilicata. A special honey that is difficult to find, but our beekeepers, together with their bees, as soon as they produce it, make it available on the Adopt a Beehive platform. A honey that is genuine and traced and above all processed by healthy bees. Indeed, 3Bee beekeepers protect their bees with technology and monitor key parameters such as family weight, temperature, humidity and more. Discover other rare honeys such as the Stregonia, choose your beekeeper and his bees.

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 pollination activity of the bee, which flies from flower to flower to collect nectar and, in so doing, carries the 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 respectful of bees and the ecosystems in which they are placed. Encouraging non-intensive beekeeping practices and promoting the best actions to support hive health 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.