Tu5, Astragalus Honey
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The honey
Botanical Origin:
Astragalus subs. (Fabaceae) Astragalus honey is a rare monofloral honey type produced by bees from Astragalus species belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae), which are unique to the flora of Türkiye. The Astragalus plant provides bees with a rich source of both nectar and pollen. This type of honey is obtained particularly in high-altitude, arid, and natural areas where Astragalus plants are dominant. Characteristics of the Honey: COLOR: Light amber tones with subtle yellowish reflections. AROMA: Characterized by mild floral and herbal notes. TASTE & FLAVOR: Taste: Light, smooth, and pleasant aroma. Compared to other monofloral honeys, it offers a more delicate flavor profile. It also has a taste that creates a slight burning sensation in the throat when consumed. PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES: Property Value: Moisture 17,47 % Electrical Conductivity 0,19 mS/cm Proline (protein indicator) 715 mg/kg Diastase Number 14,42 Free Acidity 19,29 meq/kg Fructose + Glucose 71,03% Sucrose 0,14% Source: Data obtained from the project titled “Determination of the Fingerprints of Certain Monofloral Honeys Produced in Türkiye and Having Commercial Potential: Investigation of Their Chemical Compositions, Medicinal Activities, and Standardization” carried out in partnership between Turkish Association of Beekeepers and the General Directorate of Agricultural Research and Policies and Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University According to research, 100 grams of Astragalus (geven) honey contains: 3.00 mg vitamin B2 6.91 mg vitamin B3 2.98 mg vitamin B5 0.37 mg vitamin B9 2.55 mg vitamin C In addition, 100 grams of Astragalus honey contains 16.03 mg GAE of phenolic compounds and 1.75 mg CE of flavonoids. Functional Food Potential and Biological Effects Astragalus honey is a natural product that carries the pharmacological effects of the Astragalus plant. Scientific studies have shown that Astragalus honey may exhibit the following biological activities: Antioxidant Activity: Protects cells against free radicals thanks to its phenolic compounds. Immune Support: In traditional medicine, Astragalus root is used to strengthen immunity; the honey may also support this effect. Natural Energy Source: Provides energy with its high natural sugar content. Enzyme Inhibitory Activity: Reported to inhibit enzymes such as AChE, BChE, urease, and tyrosinase. Suitable for Athletes and Low-Sodium Diets: Its low mineral profile makes it ideal for these dietary needs. Geographical Indications and Scientific Activities: Currently, there are two types of Geven honey in Türkiye with geographical indications: Elazığ Geven Honey and Ağrı Geven Honey. These indications guarantee the product’s authenticity, quality, and origin. The product also has the potential to stand out in the international market as one of Türkiye’s natural and value-added honey varieties. The beekeeping
Türkiye’s Beekeeping Potential:
• Türkiye is home to 13,414 plant taxa, 4,319 of which are endemic. • In addition, there are more than 600 medicinal plant species. This rich flora allows bee products produced in Türkiye to have a high phenolic and flavonoid content. • Of the 27 honey bee species found worldwide, 6 are present in Türkiye. • With 8.9 million beehives, Türkiye ranks 3rd in the world. • The country has the potential for beekeeping activities to be carried out for up to 9 months of the year. • In honey production, Türkiye ranks 2nd in the world with an annual production of 95,492 tonnes. • There are 97,984 registered beekeeping enterprises in the country. Production area: Türkiye, with more than 400 species of Astragalus, has the richest Astragalus flora in the world. Astragalus honey production is concentrated mainly in the provinces of Elazığ, Erzurum, Sivas, Tunceli, Niğde, and Kayseri, as well as across the Central Anatolia, Eastern Anatolia, and Southeastern Anatolia regions. The altitude, flora, and climatic conditions in these areas give Astragalus honey its distinctive characteristics. Production season: The flowering period occurs between May and June at lower altitudes, while in higher elevations it continues until August. Astragalus has an extended flowering season and a nectar production potential classified as Group 3. This long season increases honey production potential and contributes to variations in quality. https://www.elabir.org/
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