Raw is the real deal when it comes to India’s honeys

In January, the lower slopes of hill ranges and farmlands in Erode and surrounding areas stretching up to Kodaikanal are awash with the white blossoms of the mudakathan. The medicinal creeper, known as the balloon vine, is popularly used to treat joint pains. The sweet smelling flowers are also an excellent source of honey. P Stephen, the co-founder of Ghats Honey, an Erode-based brand that sells wild, unpasteurised honey, says their mudakkathan honey is much sought-after.