Sourwood Honey Benefits: What to Know
Explore the distinct properties of sourwood honey, a sought-after variety from the Appalachian Mountains with a uniquely smooth and complex flavor.
Explore the distinct properties of sourwood honey, a sought-after variety from the Appalachian Mountains with a uniquely smooth and complex flavor.
Sourwood honey is a monofloral honey, meaning it originates from a single plant source. This honey is sought after by chefs and enthusiasts for its complex flavor and potential wellness attributes. The specific qualities of this honey are a direct result of the tree from which it comes.
Sourwood honey is produced by honeybees that gather nectar from the blossoms of the Sourwood tree, Oxydendrum arboreum. These trees are native to the Appalachian Mountains, with production centered in North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. The honey’s name is derived from the sour taste of the tree’s leaves, not the flavor of the honey itself. The bloom period for the Sourwood tree is brief, lasting only a few weeks from late June through July, which contributes to its rarity.
This honey has distinct sensory qualities. It has a light amber to golden color and a smooth, buttery texture. The flavor profile is complex, with notes of caramel, anise, and spice with a warm finish. Unlike many other types of honey, sourwood is slow to crystallize, maintaining its fluid consistency for a long time. Its unique taste and limited production contribute to its status as a sought-after honey.
Sourwood honey is recognized for its antioxidant content, containing high levels of phenolics and flavonoids. These compounds function as antioxidants, which help the body manage oxidative stress linked to cellular damage. Raw, unfiltered sourwood honey is considered to have a strong antioxidant capacity.
Sourwood honey also has natural antibacterial properties. Like many raw honeys, it can produce hydrogen peroxide, an antibacterial agent, due to an enzyme called glucose oxidase that bees add to the nectar. This property makes it a traditional choice for soothing sore throats and calming coughs.
Sourwood honey is also used in folk medicine for its anti-inflammatory qualities. Some use it to aid digestion, as its enzymatic properties may promote a healthy gut environment. This use for general wellness has a long history in the Appalachian regions where it is produced.
The unique flavor of sourwood honey makes it a versatile ingredient. Its profile, with hints of buttery caramel and spice, complements many foods. It is an excellent choice for drizzling over warm biscuits, pancakes, or oatmeal. The honey’s smooth texture also makes it a great addition to yogurt and fruit bowls.
Sourwood honey works well with both sweet and savory dishes. It creates a balanced flavor combination when served with salty or tangy cheeses like goat cheese, blue cheese, or aged cheddars. It can be drizzled over fresh figs or pears, or served alongside charcuterie boards.
Its distinct taste also works well in beverages. Stirring it into hot tea, such as black or oolong varieties, allows its complex notes to come through. It can be used as a base for marinades and glazes for roasted chicken or pork, adding sweetness and helping to create a caramelized crust. Some use it to create a North Carolina-style barbecue sauce.
When purchasing sourwood honey, look for labels that indicate it is “raw” and “unfiltered.” This means the honey has not been heated or heavily processed, which helps preserve its naturally occurring enzymes and pollen. Authentic sourwood honey should be sourced from the Appalachian region, and many beekeepers will specify the location of their hives.
To maintain its quality, keep sourwood honey in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dark place like a pantry. Avoid refrigerating honey, as cold temperatures can accelerate the crystallization process.
It is natural for raw honey to crystallize over time, and this is not a sign of spoilage. Crystallization is the process of glucose separating from the water in the honey. If your sourwood honey solidifies, you can gently warm the jar in a bowl of warm water until it returns to a liquid state.