Beekeeping in Communist Romania
Beekeeping in Romania
Beekeeping in Communist Romania, which existed from 1947 to 1989, underwent significant changes due to the centralized nature of the government and the collectivization of agriculture. The Communist regime under Nicolae Ceaușescu aimed to transform Romania into a self-sufficient industrialized state, and this vision had an impact on various sectors, including agriculture and beekeeping. During the early years of Communist rule in Romania, there was an emphasis on collectivization and the establishment of state-controlled agricultural enterprises. This included the creation of large-scale agricultural cooperatives and state farms. Private land ownership was severely restricted, and beekeepers were expected to join collective farms or state-run beekeeping enterprises.
Beekeeping was considered an important agricultural activity, as honey production was seen as a valuable commodity for both domestic consumption and export. The government implemented measures to increase honey production and set production targets for collective farms and state-run enterprises. Beekeepers were encouraged to use modern techniques and equipment to achieve higher yields.
Under the Communist regime, beekeepers faced challenges related to bureaucratic control and central planning. Decisions about hive placement, bee breeding, and honey collection were often made by government-appointed officials. Beekeepers had limited autonomy and were expected to follow state directives.
Additionally, beekeepers had to navigate a system of quotas and regulations. The state determined the amount of honey each collective farm or beekeeping enterprise was required to produce. Failure to meet the assigned quotas could result in penalties or loss of privileges. This centralized approach often stifled individual creativity and entrepreneurship among beekeepers.
While the Communist regime aimed to increase honey production, the emphasis on quantity sometimes came at the expense of quality. Mass production methods and the use of chemical treatments were common, and natural beekeeping practices were often overlooked.
Despite the challenges, beekeeping continued to be an important activity in Romania, with the country known for its diverse flora and favorable climate for honey production. Beekeepers, particularly those operating in remote rural areas, were able to maintain some degree of independence and preserve traditional beekeeping methods.
Following the fall of Communism in 1989, Romania underwent significant political and economic changes. The transition to a market-oriented economy allowed for greater individual freedom and entrepreneurship. Beekeepers gained more autonomy and were able to adopt modern techniques while also preserving traditional practices. Today, Romania remains an important honey producer, with a growing interest in organic and sustainable beekeeping methods.
The Sweet Taste of South Florida Honey: Exploring Nature’s Golden Delight
Sunny Honey Miami – South Florida Honey
When it comes to delectable, all-natural sweetness, South Florida honey takes the spotlight. From the vibrant blossoms of tropical plants to the buzzing bees diligently collecting nectar, the region’s unique flora and fauna contribute to the creation of this golden elixir. In this blog post, we will embark on a journey to uncover the rich heritage, diverse flavors, and health benefits.
A Rich Beekeeping Tradition in South Florida
South Florida’s warm climate, abundant flora, and diverse ecosystems provide an ideal environment for honeybees to thrive. The region has a long-standing tradition of beekeeping, with dedicated apiarists carefully tending to beehives and harvesting the liquid gold produced by their industrious bees.
Distinctive Flavors and Varieties
South Florida honey boasts a delightful array of flavors, each with its own unique characteristics. The diverse floral sources, including citrus groves, wildflowers, mangroves, and tropical fruit trees, contribute to the distinct flavor profiles found in the region’s honey. From the delicate sweetness of orange blossom honey to the robust richness of avocado blossom honey, each variety offers a taste of South Florida’s natural bounty.
Nutritional Benefits and Healing Properties
Beyond its delicious taste, South Florida honey is renowned for its numerous health benefits. It is a natural source of antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Consuming raw, unfiltered honey from the region can provide relief for allergies, aid digestion, soothe sore throats, and boost overall immunity.
Supporting Local Beekeepers and Conservation Efforts
By choosing SFL honey, you not only indulge in a delectable treat but also support local beekeepers and their vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems. Beekeepers in the region play an essential role in pollination, contributing to the growth and sustainability of South Florida’s agricultural and natural landscapes.
Culinary Delights and Beyond
South Florida honey’s versatility extends beyond its role as a sweetener. Its unique flavors and textures make it a perfect accompaniment to various culinary creations. From drizzling it over fresh fruits and yogurt to incorporating it into marinades, dressings, and baked goods, the possibilities are endless. Additionally, honey-based skincare products, such as moisturizers and lip balms, harness its natural properties to promote healthy and nourished skin.
Sourcing and Appreciating South Florida Honey
To experience the authentic taste of South Florida honey, consider exploring local farmers’ markets, specialty food stores, and apiaries. Local beekeepers are often passionate about their craft and can offer insights into the honey production process, beekeeping techniques, and the unique aspects of their honey varieties.
South Florida honey is more than just a sweet treat; it is a testament to the region’s rich natural resources and the dedicated efforts of local beekeepers. From its diverse flavors and health benefits to its contributions to local ecosystems, South Florida honey is a golden delight worth savoring. So, indulge in a jar of this exquisite nectar, support local beekeepers, and let the pure taste of nature’s sweetness transport you to the vibrant landscapes of South Florida.
Honey Tapping Home Treatment
Hemp Honey vs CBD Oil: Which is Better?
Hemp Honey vs. CBD Oil
The wellness industry has experienced a surge in popularity with the rise of natural remedies and alternative health solutions. Among the many products gaining attention are hemp honey and CBD oil, both derived from the versatile hemp plant. Hemp and CBD oil offer unique benefits, but determining which one is better depends on individual needs and preferences. In this blog post, we will delve into the characteristics of hemp honey and CBD oil, comparing their properties and discussing their potential advantages. Let’s explore the world of hemp-based products and discover which option might be the right fit for you.
Understanding The Difference
They both share a common origin, as both are derived from the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa). However, they differ in terms of extraction methods, composition, and potential applications.
- Hemp honey is a delicious, natural sweetener infused with hemp extract. It is created by infusing raw honey with hemp extract or CBD isolate. It typically contains a blend of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial compounds found in hemp. The infusion process allows the honey to retain its natural flavor while incorporating the potential therapeutic properties of hemp.
- CBD oil, on the other hand, is extracted from the hemp plant using various methods such as CO2 extraction or solvent-based extraction. It contains high concentrations of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound renowned for its potential therapeutic effects. CBD oil is often available in different concentrations, allowing users to choose a potency that suits their needs.
Comparing The Two
- Consumption and Versatility: Hemp is a versatile product that can be consumed in various ways. It can be used as a sweetener in beverages like tea or coffee, drizzled over desserts or fruits, or enjoyed straight from the spoon. The versatility makes it an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate the potential benefits of hemp into their daily routine.
CBD oil, on the other hand, is primarily consumed orally. It can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) for fast absorption or added to food and beverages. Some CBD oils are specifically formulated for topical application, providing potential benefits when applied to the skin.
- Potential Benefits: Both hemp honey and CBD oil offer potential wellness benefits due to the presence of cannabinoids and other compounds found in hemp. CBD oil is often used for its potential analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic properties. It may help with managing pain, reducing anxiety and stress, improving sleep quality, and promoting overall relaxation.
Hemp honey, in addition to the potential benefits of cannabinoids, offers the added advantages of honey itself. Honey has been used for centuries for its antibacterial properties, wound healing capabilities, and as a source of antioxidants. Combining the benefits of hemp extract and honey creates a product that may aid in promoting general well-being and supporting a healthy immune system.
- Taste and Enjoyment: One notable aspect of hemp honey is its delicious taste. The infusion of hemp extract gives the honey a subtle earthy flavor, which complements its natural sweetness. It provides an enjoyable way to incorporate the potential benefits of hemp into your daily routine.
CBD oil, on the other hand, has a distinct hemp flavor that can be an acquired taste for some individuals. However, many manufacturers offer flavored options to mask the natural taste, making it more palatable for those sensitive to the earthy undertones.
In the ongoing debate, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preferences and desired outcomes. Hemp honey offers a tasty and versatile way to consume the potential benefits of hemp while enjoying the added advantages of honey itself. On
What Is CBD Honey?
What is CBD Honey?
A natural sweetener infused with CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. CBD is known for its potential health benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and anti-inflammatory properties. When combined with honey, it can be a delicious and easy way to incorporate CBD into your daily routine.
Benefits
This honey can provide a variety of potential health benefits. The CBD in the honey may help to reduce anxiety and stress, alleviate pain and inflammation, and promote better sleep. Honey itself is known for its antioxidant properties and ability to soothe sore throats. Combining CBD with honey can provide a tasty and effective way to support your overall health and wellness.
How to Make It
To make it at home, you will need CBD oil or tincture, and honey. Simply mix the desired amount of CBD oil or tincture into the honey and stir until well combined. It’s important to use high-quality CBD oil or tincture to ensure the best possible results. Store in a cool, dry place and use as desired.
Dosage
The recommended dosage can vary depending on the individual and their specific needs. It’s best to start with a small dose and gradually increase until the desired effect is achieved. It’s also important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding CBD to your daily routine to ensure that it is safe for you to use.
Recipes
CBD honey can be used in a variety of recipes, from baked goods to salad dressings. Some popular options include adding it to tea or coffee, drizzling
What Is Whipped Honey?
Whipped Honey: A Sweet and Spreadable Delight
Honey is a natural sweetener that has been used for centuries in cooking and baking. But have you ever heard of whipped honey? Also known as honey butter, it is a fluffy and spreadable form of honey. It is perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your toast, bagel, or oatmeal. We will explore everything you need to know about it, including what it is, its benefits & how to make it.
What is Whipped Honey?
Whipped honey is honey that has been aerated by whipping it with a mixer until it becomes light and fluffy. This process creates a spreadable form of honey that is much easier to use than traditional, liquid honey. Unlike traditional honey, it does not run or drip, making it ideal for spreading on toast, bagels, or crackers.
Benefits:
Easier to spread: Whipped honey is much easier to spread than traditional, liquid honey. It has a lighter, fluffier texture that makes it ideal for spreading on bread, bagels, and crackers.
Natural sweetener: Whipped honey is made using only raw honey, making it a natural and healthier alternative to processed sugars and artificial sweeteners.
Longer shelf life: It can last up to a month in the refrigerator, making it a great option for those who want to have a natural sweetener on hand.
Versatile: Whipped honey can be used in a variety of ways, including as a topping for oatmeal, yogurt, or ice cream, or as a sweetener for tea and coffee.
How to Make It
Making it at home is incredibly simple and only requires two ingredients: raw honey and a mixer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make it:
- Pour the raw honey into a large mixing bowl.
- Begin to beat the honey on medium-high speed with a stand mixer or a hand mixer.
- Continue to beat the honey until it becomes light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Transfer it into a container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a month.
Note: It will harden in the refrigerator, but it can be softened by heating it in a double boiler or in a warm water bath.
In conclusion, whipped honey is a delightful alternative to traditional honey. It is a natural sweetener that is easy to spread, versatile, and has a longer shelf life. Whether you’re looking for a way to add a touch of sweetness to your toast or want to use it as a natural sweetener in your tea or coffee, this is a great option. So, go ahead and give it a try and see for yourself why it’s quickly becoming a popular choice among health-conscious individuals.
What is Creamed Honey?
What is creamed honey?
The raw honey, the one we use is honey that comes straight form the honeycomb, we never heat it up, which preserves all the amazing qualities of the honey. Our honey is Canadian white clover honey, the highest quality honey there is!
Creamed honey, also known as spun or whipped honey, is a type of processed honey that has been creamed and whipped to create a thick, spreadable consistency. It is created by blending granulated honey crystals with liquid honey until it reaches the desired creamy texture and then slowly crystallizing it in large cooling tanks. The creaming process breaks down the larger crystals into smaller ones, making creamed honey smoother and easier to spread. It spreads like butter at room temperature and has an incredibly sweet flavor. Creamed honey is loved by many for its versatility—it can be used just like any other form of liquid or creamed honey, drizzled on oatmeal or yogurt, added to smoothies for extra sweetness, mixed into cake and cookie batters, or spread on toast.
After collecting and straining raw honey from the hive, we throw it in a honey creamer. A honey creamer is essentially a big tank with an auger that spins liquid honey periodically over a few days. Honey naturally wants to crystallize in the tank but by stirring it we interfere with the crystallization process. This allows us to control the size of the crystals. The smaller the crystal, the smoother and creamier the honey. Creamed honey has a smooth, sumptuous texture that is perfect as a spread but preserves the goodness of raw honey. This process takes 4 days!
Creamed honey is especially popular among beekeepers who prefer harvesting creamed versions of their own raw honeys to save time and effort in the kitchen. The creaming process stabilizes the liquid form so that it won’t crystallize too quickly or deposit any sediment at the bottom of the jar. This creamed honey is a great choice for those looking to enjoy their honey without worrying about it becoming overly thick or grainy, as it maintains its smooth consistency for much longer than traditional liquid honey.
In addition, creamed honey has a much more subtle flavor than regular liquid honey and can be used in a wide variety of recipes, from toast and yogurt to baked goods and tea. It’s also perfect for adding an extra layer of sweetness to your favorite dishes like pancakes, oatmeal, ice cream sundaes, and even smoothies!
So if you’re looking for a delicious alternative to regular liquid honey that won’t leave your hands sticky or cause any mess in the kitchen, creamed honey is the perfect choice. Not only is creamed honey easier to spread than spun or whipped honey, it also has a superior flavor and texture that will have you coming back for more! Try creamed honey today and experience the difference!
Creamed honey, despite any of its names, contains no cream (or any dairy products).
Other Names For Creamed Honey:
- Whipped honey
- Spun honey
- Granulated honey
- Churned honey
- Fondant honey
- Honey butter, or
- Soft set honey.
Tips for Staying Healthy Through the Changing Seasons
Tips for Staying Healthy Through the Changing Seasons
As autumn changes to fall, and fall into winter, the days become shorter, the air becomes colder, and the leaves fall to the ground to decompose. Just as nature moves through seasonal changes, so too do our bodies. This is a time when we can turn inward to regain our strength through practices that ground and nourish us. Doing so will help us to reemerge in the spring with vitality and vigor.
Simple meal swaps that focus on seasonal offerings, grounding lifestyle practices, adaptogenic herbs, and the cultivation of balance, are all key ingredients to a staying healthy through flu season.
The seasonal transitions into the darker, colder months can leave your body feeling dry and depleted. Tending to your body’s needs for increased nourishment and more digestible foods is fundamental for a smooth transition between seasons, all year long. When you support a healthy digestive and immune system during times of seasonal change, you give your body the resources and “back-up” it needs to face any colds and flus headed your way. Focus on preparing meals with seasonal ingredients, like carrots, beets, pears, citrus, celery root, and more, and prepare them in ways that are grounding, like low and slow cooking methods, and in warming dishes like soups, stews, warm beverages, and more!
Luckily, many of the most beneficial herbs for cold and flu season are probably sitting in your spice cabinet or on your counter right now – making them the perfect immune-supporting addition to any breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Garlic, thyme, ginger, oregano, to name a few, are some of the most powerful and safest antivirals and antibacterial herbal medicines we have available. Cook dishes packed with antioxidant, vitamin, and mineral rich food choices, and your meals will not only be delicious, but nutritious and immune-boosting as well!
Delicious Ingredients with Medicinal Benefits
Honey: Not only is honey a superfood, it may also help prevent both viral and bacterial infections, including colds, flus, and more! Honey, especially raw/unprocessed honey, offers a wide array of nutritional benefits, makes a great sugar replacement in coffee or tea, and can be eaten right off the spoon as a delicious, throat-soothing remedy with immune-boosting benefits. Sunny Honey Miami only uses raw honey, infused with whole ingredients. https://sunnyhoneymiami.com/product-category/creamed-honey/
Sage (Salvia officinalis): Traditionally, sage was used to support upper respiratory distress and sore throats, move phlegm out of the body during sinus infections, and soothe the stomach when upset. The earthy-pine flavors make sage easy to incorporate into soups, stews, and a wide variety of sauces/gravies.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Turmeric is a well-known herb for its bright color, and without a doubt, this herb is one of the most potent anti-inflammatory botanicals recognized by modern research. Turmeric can be easily added to any cold or warm dish, giving any meal a pop of color and potent dose of antioxidants!
We hope you’ll put to use some of the strategies and tips from this article to help you minimize the chance of becoming sick this cold and flu season. Fall and winter are a great time to check-in on your health and tend to self-care habits that will provide a strong foundation for your mind, body, and soul to thrive throughout each season ahead.
She Grew Up In A Family of Romanian Beekeepers
Growing up in Communist Romania, Mihaela Gutman and her family lacked many basics.
Honey, however, was abundant.
“Honey was our dessert, our medicine, our everything,” said Gutman, who now lives in South Beach. “We didn’t have sugar; we didn’t have anything. But we had honey. I grew up fascinated with bees.”
Today, she is a nascent entrepreneur, having recently launched Sunny Honey Miami with her husband, Jorge Gutman, a Miami Beach contractor.
The company sells seven types of honey. But this is not the honey you squeeze out of a plastic bear. Imported from Canada, the honey is creamed and bottled in Florida, giving it a texture similar to crème brulée. The honey is flavored with vanilla, matcha, cacao, coconut, key lime or lavender for as long as two weeks. The company also sells a plain creamed honey, Gutman’s favorite.
It’s not cheap — $22.99 for a 12-ounce jar, sold on Sunny Honey’s website and at My Deli Market on Brickell Bay Drive. They are also marketing it at specialty food shows.
They’ve sold about $50,000 since launching three months ago, says Jorge Gutman, adding they have seven employees.
“What they have done is a change in the industry,” said Joaquin Mantovani, a honey importer in Florida who advises them.
Romanian roots
Gutman grew up in Romania in a family of beekeepers. When she was young, Romania was ruled by the dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, whose 22-year Communist rule was marked by killings of thousands of Romanians, drastic shortages of food and water and government corruption, including Ceausescu appointing his wife Elena as first deputy prime minister.
On Dec. 25, 1989 — after he and his wife were convicted of genocide in a military trial and sentenced to death — they were executed by firing squad. The northern part of Romania borders Ukraine.
Growing up, Gutman was told women didn’t work, that their calling was in the home.
That changed when Gutman left Romania for the first time in 1994. At age 20, she was selected to represent Romania at the Miss Universe pageant in the Philippines. Seeing life outside of a Communist country opened her eyes.
“I decided I was going to travel the whole world,” said Gutman, now 47.
Baker in Turks and Caicos
One of her stops was the Turks and Caicos, an archipelago southeast of the Bahamas in the Atlantic Ocean. In 2011, she was working in a bakery there when Jorge Gutman, vacationing in the islands, walked in.
“She walked out of the kitchen and I fell in love,” he said. “For me, it was love at first sight.”
Two years later, she moved to South Beach and the couple married. They bought a beehive for the backyard of their South Beach home, eventually leading them to create Sunny Honey. Gutman works full time at the business while her husband continues in real estate.
Gutman tested the recipes over three years, trying different honeys and infusing them with different flavors.
”What they have done is put a white gold on the shelf,” Mantovani said, noting they use a rare white honey.
White honey, unlike amber honey, has a milky, custard-like color. Mantovani says the lighter the honey, the sweeter it is.
“If you try theirs and then you try a Publix honey, you will taste the difference. It’s sweeter and not bitter.”
Jesse Liebermann
Read the full article here: https://www.miamiherald.com/news/business/article256826967.html?fbclid=IwAR3_p3vAokHlKuqmR6kxC22fZi1JN5qHZ5pOFopNqfnmMJFjDnW7zVV6EYY
Honey Mouthwash for Reduced Plaque
How many times have you heard from the dentist to limit the amounts of sweets you consume or you’ll end up with a mouth full of cavities?
It looks like you can cross honey off that list as honey doesn’t contribute to cavities says a new study. In fact, it appears to have significant dental health promoting properties.
Scientists set out to compare the effect of honey versus a chlorhexidine mouthwash and a xylitol chewing gum/chlorhexidine mouthwash combination on dental plaque levels in ninety dental health students.
Chlorhexidine is a common ingredient you see in mouthwash products and is designed to reduce dental plaque and oral bacteria. The issue I have with over the counter mouth wash products is that virtually all of them have artificial color or food coloring agents in them (there is a reason they are bright blue or yellow). Scope contains Blue 1 and Yellow 5. They also have chemical preservatives in them like sodium benzoate and benzoic acid and artificial sweeteners like sodium saccharin, again all contained in Scope.
Xylitol on the other hand, is a naturally occurring sweetener that is found in many fruits and vegetables. You can find it used in many natural toothpastes and mouthwashes and in sugar free recipes as it is a popular, low glycemic sugar alternative.
The subjects were randomly divided into three groups for the study:
- the honey group
- the chlorhexidine mouthwash group
- the combination of xylitol chewing gum and chlorhexidine mouthwash group
What the study found was that all three groups were effective in reducing dental plaque in the students. Honey however was significantly more effective than the chlorhexidine (over the counter mouthwash) group and was reported to cause a significant reduction of plaque over 30 days. The xylitol group was also more effective than the chlorhexidine group.
Why Is Honey Good for Your Teeth?
The study didn’t get into how or why honey works well for reducing dental plaque but I suspect it is related to the lactic acid bacteria found in honey. A study done in Tehran found that honey prevents cavities by inhibiting Streptococcus mutans.
The scientists set out to evaluate the antibacterial activity of honey on Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus. These bacteria are the evil little devils that cause cavities and a mouth full of fillings, not to mention the pain and suffering that accompanies the trip to the dentist.
Over the last several years, raw, unpasteurized honey has been shown to have very strong anti-bacterial activity. Could consuming honey contribute to fewer trips to the dentist along with much smaller dental bills?
In this study, solutions containing 0%, 5%, 10%, 20%, 50% and 100% natural honey were prepared in a test tube. The cavity causing bacteria were then exposed to the different concentrations of honey for 24 hours.
What the scientists found was that the honey had significant antibacterial activity on Streptococcus mutans in concentrations more than 20% and on Lactobacillus in 100% concentration.
So it seems that the antibacterial activity of honey could be used for the prevention and reduction of dental cavities. More studies need to be done but this is very promising as we discover more about the dangers of processed, refined sugars and convert to more natural sugars such as honey. Don’t go brushing your teeth with raw honey just yet but the day of honey infused toothpaste just might be closer than we think!
Honey and Your Teeth
So how can you use honey in your daily routine to limit plaque and reduce cavities? Easy. First off, ditch your bottle of Scope or Listerine and the toxic ingredients contained in those products. Switch to a xylitol toothpaste that is fluoride free and contains propolis. Next, try this home made honey mouthwash that I have created. It tastes great and only takes a minute to prepare:
Honey Mouthwash for Reduced Plaque
- 1/2 cup filtered water (luke warm if possible)
- Dissolve 1 tsp of our plain creamed raw honey into the water. It is very important to use unpasteurized honey. Pasteurized honey will have no living bacteria in it which I believe are the mechanism by which honey works to reduce plaque.
- Stir to help dissolve
- Bonus:add one packet OR 1/2 tsp of xylitol to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into your mouth and rinse as you would a regular mouthwash.
- Since honey kills Streph, I recommend gargling with the rinse to keep your throat clear of infections.
- After thoroughly rinsing, spit the mixture into the sink.
- Do NOT rinse your mouth out after spitting. I believe there may be some value in having the honey (and xylitol if you use it) remain on your teeth for several minutes to let the ‘good bacteria’ do their work.