What does grayanotoxin do to the body?
Consumption of grayanotoxin containing leaves, flowers or secondary products as honey may result in intoxication specifically characterized by dizziness, hypotension and atrial-ventricular block. Symptoms are caused by an inability to inactivate neural sodium ion channels resulting in continuous increased vagal tone. Ingestion of this toxin can cause various neurologic and cardiovascular symptoms, and hypersalivation, often referred to as “mad honey poisoning. Grayanotoxins bind to voltage-gated sodium channels on cell membranes.The most common side effect is stomach upset, but this condition is very rare. The only problem you have to watch out for is the allergic reaction that some people have to the honey, usually manifested in the form of a rash.However, excessive consumption of mad honey can lead to serious adverse effects, including bradycardia, hypotension, and altered sensorium [3]. Experimental studies have also suggested cytotoxic and genotoxic effects in animal models, indicating potential broader health risks [4].Rhododendrons and other plants in the Ericaceae family are the source of grayanotoxins. Grayanotoxins are neurotoxins which can affect nerves and muscles. Symptoms of mad honey poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea and dizziness. In severe cases, hypotension, bradycardia or shock may occur.Consumption of grayanotoxin containing leaves, flowers or secondary products as honey may result in intoxication specifically characterized by dizziness, hypotension and atrial-ventricular block. Symptoms are caused by an inability to inactivate neural sodium ion channels resulting in continuous increased vagal tone.
How long does grayanotoxin last?
As grayanotoxins are metabolized and excreted rapidly, patients generally regain consciousness and feel better within hours, and heart rate and blood pressure usually return to normal within 2–9 h (Gunduz et al. The symptoms generally last less than 24 h as the grayanotoxin is metabolized and excreted within 24 h [25]. With increasing amount of acute ingestion, toxic effects appear to be more severe.Additionally, patients may develop dizziness, nausea and vomiting, weakness, sweating, blurred vision, diplopia and impaired consciousness. The heating of processed honey may kill grayanotoxin.
Where is grayanotoxin found?
Grayanotoxins are plant toxins that occur in some rhododendron species, among others. The substances can also be found in honey if bees have processed the nectar of these plants. This is mainly known to occur in the Turkish Black Sea region. Many plants of the Ericaceae family, Rhododendron, Pieris, Agarista and Kalmia, contain diterpene grayanotoxins. Consumption of grayanotoxin containing leaves, flowers or secondary products as honey may result in intoxication specifically characterized by dizziness, hypotension and atrial-ventricular block.