HONEY

HONEY

Synonym

Madhu, Honey Purified, Mel

Biological  Source

Honey is a sugar secretion deposited in honey Comb by the bees, Apismellifera, Apisdors: and other species of Apis, belonging to family Apidae, order Hymenoptera.

Geographical Source

Honey is produced in Africa, Australia, New Zealand; California and India.

Preparation for the Market

The nectar of the flowers is a watery solution Containing 25 per cent sucrose and 75 percent water. The worker bee sucks this nectar through its hollow tube of mouth (proboscis) and deposits honey sac located in the abdomen. The enzyme invertase present in saliva of the bee converts nectar into invert sugar, which is partially utilised by the bee and the remaining is deposited i honeycomb. Honeycomb is smoked to remove the bees and honey is obtained by applying the pressure to it or allowing it to drain naturally. The honey of commerce is heated to 80°C an allowed to stand. The impurities which float over the surface are skimmed off and liquid dilutedwith water to produce honey of 1.35 densities. Natural honey has the density of 1.47. Many a time honey is extracted from the comb by Centrifugation. It must be free from foreign substances. Hone is liable to fermentation, unless it is suitably processed. Honey is heated to 80°C before it is sent to the market, so as to avoid fermentation. It should be cooled rapidly or else it darkens in Colour onkeeping. If necessary (and if not prepared by centrifugation method), honey is required to be filtered through wet cloth or flannel.

Uses

1.    Honey is used as a demulcent and sweetening agent.

2.     It is readily assimilated and hence is a d nutrient to infants and patients.

3.     It is antiseptic and applied to burns and wounds.

4.     It is a mon ingredient of several Cough mixture, Cough drops and vehicle for ayurvedic formulations. rently, it is used in preparation of Creams, lotions, soft drinks and candies also.