Mad Honey Toxicity Research | Rat Study

Current Research

In Progress

Safety & Toxicology

Study Overview

IMHSI is conducting a controlled rat study to evaluate the systemic effects of Mad Honey, with a specific focus on grayanotoxins I (GTX-I) and III (GTX-III) at varying dose levels. This study is foundational to IMHSI’s broader mission of establishing internationally recognised safety standards for Himalayan cliff honey.

The research is designed to generate the dose-response data that is currently absent from the scientific literature — data that regulators, food safety agencies, and export markets need before Mad Honey can be formally recognised within international frameworks such as Codex Alimentarius and EFSA.

Research Methodology

Biological & Physiological Assessment

Animals are monitored across multiple dose cohorts for physiological responses including heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory function, and neurological indicators. Assessment protocols are designed to capture both acute and sub-acute effects across a range of grayanotoxin exposure levels.

Behavioural Assessment

Standardised behavioural tests assess motor function, coordination, and anxiety-related responses. Behavioural data is cross-referenced with physiological findings to establish the onset thresholds for observable effects.

Blood Biochemistry & Histopathology

Blood biochemistry panels assess hepatic and renal function markers, haematological parameters, and electrolyte profiles. Histopathological analysis of key organ systems provides tissue-level evidence of dose-dependent effects, identifying the mechanisms and extent of systemic impact.

Expected Outcomes

Dose-Response Relationships

Quantified relationships between GTX-I and GTX-III exposure levels and observed physiological and behavioural effects in rats.

Human-Equivalent Doses

Conversion of rat study findings to human-equivalent dose estimates, enabling evidence-based safe consumption threshold recommendations.

Regulatory Evidence Base

Toxicity thresholds and supporting data that can be submitted to international food safety bodies for consideration in regulatory frameworks.

Findings will be published in peer-reviewed literature and made available to regulatory agencies, healthcare providers, and the broader research community. Contact info@imhsinstitute.org for enquiries about this research.

Interested in collaborating?

IMHSI welcomes research partnerships with universities, laboratories, and independent toxicologists.

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Rat Toxicity Study