Hallucinogen Honey Hunters - Hunting Mad Honey - Full Documentary

Raphael Treza2 minutes read

The Gurungs in Nepal risk their lives collecting honey from cliff-side hives known for medicinal properties, with the process involving ritualistic preparation and coordination due to aggressive bees. Despite its benefits, overconsumption of the honey can lead to hallucinations and health issues, as one tribe member experienced toxicity and needed medical attention.

Insights

  • The Gurungs, a tribe in Nepal, engage in perilous honey hunting rituals with medicinal and hallucinogenic honey, showcasing their deep connection to nature and traditional practices.
  • The honey hunting process involves intricate rituals, teamwork, and risks, with the honey's potent properties serving both medicinal and recreational purposes, while also posing dangers if not handled carefully, highlighting the delicate balance between tradition and modernity in their lifestyle.

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Recent questions

  • What is the traditional honey hunting process?

    The traditional honey hunting process of the Gurung tribe in Nepal involves a ritualistic preparation, including offering a sacrifice to a forest spirit, smoking out the bees, and using a ladder to collect the honey. This process is carried out with caution and coordination due to the aggressiveness of the bees, with past fatal accidents marking the tribe's history.

  • How do the Gurungs use the collected honey?

    The Gurungs use the collected honey for various purposes, such as an aphrodisiac and for healing purposes. The honey contains diterpenic alcohol, which can cause inebriety when consumed. However, overconsumption of the honey can lead to hallucinations and serious health issues, as seen when a member of the hunting team suffers from toxicity and requires medical attention.

  • Where do the Gurungs live?

    The Gurungs live in a remote village surrounded by a thick jungle in Nepal. They are almost entirely self-sufficient, growing crops, raising animals, and crafting goods. This remote setting adds to the challenges they face in honey hunting, as they navigate the cliff-side hives in the jungle.

  • Who is Kershing in the honey hunting team?

    Kershing is the oldest hunter in the honey hunting team of the Gurung tribe. He displays remarkable confidence and rapport with the bees, facing the aggressive insects with courage and skill. His experience and expertise in honey hunting are evident as he navigates the dangerous process with ease.

  • What are the risks involved in honey hunting?

    Honey hunting is a risky endeavor for the Gurung tribe, as they face aggressive bees during the collection process. The bees' aggressiveness requires coordination and caution from the hunting team to avoid accidents. Past fatal incidents have marked the tribe's history, highlighting the dangers associated with this traditional practice.

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Summary

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"Gurungs: Risky Honey Harvest in Nepal"

  • The Gurungs, a tribe of honey hunters in Nepal, risk their lives to collect honey from cliff-side hives, known for its medicinal and hallucinogenic properties.
  • The Gurungs live in a remote village surrounded by a thick jungle, almost entirely self-sufficient, growing crops, raising animals, and crafting goods.
  • The honey hunting process involves a ritualistic preparation, including offering a sacrifice to a forest spirit, smoking out the bees, and using a ladder to collect the honey.
  • The honey hunting team faces aggressive bees, with Kershing, the oldest hunter, displaying remarkable confidence and rapport with the bees.
  • The honey harvest requires coordination and caution due to the bees' aggressiveness, with past fatal accidents marking the tribe's history.
  • The honey contains diterpenic alcohol, causing inebriety, and is used by the Gurungs as an aphrodisiac and for healing purposes.
  • Overconsumption of the honey can lead to hallucinations and serious health issues, as seen when a member of the hunting team suffers from toxicity and requires medical attention.
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