Catch the Buzz: Honey Rx for Pollen at Tahoe in 2026

   Cal Orey, M.A. Tahoe Daily Tribune 

It’s back! Dust and dander are the culprits. Then, the yellow stuff follows on cue. "Achoo!"

Every pre-Summer, the eerie yellow pollen arrives, an unwelcome guest dusting everything in sight. Reaching for a tissue and a plan, I brace myself for the season. During my research for the honey book, a Reno beekeeper, eager to introduce me to his new queen bees, shared his wisdom about nature’s nectar. I left with a jar of his golden honey, and, following his advice, I took a daily tablespoon of the local product. Honey experts suggested that consuming local honey could help my immune system adapt to the local pollen, reducing allergy miseries. Whether it was the honey, or a combo of tactics, I found myself better equipped to face the yellow powder that coated my world on the South Shore.

The presence of yellow pollen in the Lake Tahoe area during early summer is a common phenomenon. Here’s its potential health impacts, and tips to adapt to the yucky yellow stuff.

So, What is Yellow Pollen, Anyhow? Yellow pollen in the Tahoe area, in early summer, is primarily from pine trees. Pine trees are prolific pollen producers, and their pollen is easily spread by the wind. The result: Tell-tale yellow dust that can coat your car, yard, clothes, and even be visible on the lake’s surface. 

Is the Yucky Powder Unhealthy? Nah, but it can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, like me, and maybe you. Symptoms of tree pollen allergies include sneezing, itchy eyes, throat, and watery eyes. Blame it on the body’s immune system overreacting to the pollen, releasing histamine that causes inflammation.

How to Deal with Yellow Pollen: Check local pollen forecasts: (AccuWeather website) to anticipate high pollen days. Keep Windows and Doors Closed: This helps prevent pollen from entering your home. Shower and Change Clothes: After being outdoors, shower and change clothes to zap pollen. Try Allergy Medications: Over-the-counter antihistamines can help alleviate symptoms. Consider an Air Purifier (or two): An air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove pollen from indoor air. And consider what you consume, too…

Anti-Pollen Diet: Hydration: Drinking plenty of water and tea to help thin nasal mucus and ease congestion. Vitamin C-rich foods: Some studies suggest Vitamin C may have antihistamine properties. Consider citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers. Probiotic-rich foods: Probiotics may help curb the immune response. Yogurt is a good source.

Honey to the Rescue: Go ahead—drizzle honey in your yogurt, like I do. Check out local honey producers. Warning: To avoid infant botulism, don’t feed honey to a baby who is younger than one year.

In a nutshell, by July sometime the yellow dust will say good-bye and you’ll be ready for other summertime air quality culprits—but you’ll be better prepared.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, 2nd edition The Healing Powers of Honey (Aug. 2026, pre-order) and Courage with Paws: The Heart of a Siamese Cat, (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby.. Her website is http://www.calorey.com 

Discover Honey's Amazing Bee-Healthy Powers in the Chronic Disease Era (All Generations)

 

 Overview (Pre-Order for August 25--click on overview.) And now, sit down and warm up with the groundbreaking classic on Amazon Special Deal for 1.99 ranking #2 in 100 Best Sellers in different categories; and catch up for the unveiling of HONEY 2!)

Learn how to boost your immune system, combat ailments, and so much more, all with the natural power of honey—the pantry staple and sustainable superfood that’s also the green choice for healthy living, homeopathic remedies, and natural cures.

A newly revised and updated edition of the #1 hit, now with new research, heart-healthy recipes, honey bee data, and home cures!

DISCOVER HONEY’S AMAZING BEE-HEALTHY POWERS
Did you know? . . .

Eating honey, Mother Nature’s ancient medicine, can still work its healing magic and help lower the risk of disease—adding quality and years to your life—at any age!

The buzz: Consumers are seeking healthy alternatives to refined sugar due to concerns about obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the #1 killer.

Yes! Raw, unprocessed honey is more popular than ever before and is touted a “superfood” as it replaces unhealthy table sugar and artificial sweeteners—helping to combat the skyrocketing rise in chronic ailments and life-threatening diseases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health.

Increasing threats to honey bees’ survival may harm the planet’s nourishing superfoods that you love to eat—such as fruits and nuts—that the honey bee pollinates.

Honey, known as Mother Nature’s “nectar of the gods,” is an ancient remedy noted in the Bible and used for centuries to quell a cough, soothe a sore throat, energize you, and even calm frazzled nerves due to stressors such as post-COVID-19 virus variants and climate change health effects.

Enjoy gripping and adventurous survival stories about honey bees and humans as well as fascinating reasons why the popularity of honey is soaring, Manuka honey medicinal uses are surging, and herbal flavored varietals are trending. You’ll also love new heart-healthy recipes with honey twists such as Whipped Ricotta Toast with Lemon Thyme Honey, Hot Honey Glazed Turkey Loaf, and Turmeric Honey Immunity Booster, plus buzzworthy home cures thanks to honey’s gifts (including super “bee foods” like propolis and royal jelly) from the hive!

“This eye-opening book provides you with a delicious truth of the traditional Mediterranean diet. Honey is a sumptuous route to optimal health.” —Dr. Will Clower, author of The French Don’t Diet Plan 

Buzzworthy Book Event: Healing Powers Series Author is Hitting the Road!

By Cal Orey, M.A.

My latest release The Healing Powers of Honey, Revised & Updated is hitting the road! I’ve been booked at Barnes & Noble (Reno, NV) for a buzzworthy signing, and I can’t wait to meet you all in person.

Get ready for some stories, and maybe even a local beekeeper with a few treats from the hive. Mark your calendars: 9-19-2026--National Honey Month!

Learn how to boost your immune system, combat ailments, and so much more, all with the natural power of honey—the pantry staple and sustainable superfood that’s also the green choice for healthy living, homeopathic remedies, and natural cures.

A newly revised and updated edition of the #1 hit, now with new research, heart-healthy recipes, honey bee data, and home cures!

DISCOVER HONEY’S AMAZING BEE-HEALTHY POWERS
Did you know? . . .

Eating honey, Mother Nature’s ancient medicine, can still work its healing magic and help lower the risk of disease—adding quality and years to your life—at any age!

The buzz: Consumers are seeking healthy alternatives to refined sugar due to concerns about obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the #1 killer.

Yes! Raw, unprocessed honey is more popular than ever before and is touted a “superfood” as it replaces unhealthy table sugar and artificial sweeteners—helping to combat the skyrocketing rise in chronic ailments and life-threatening diseases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health.

Increasing threats to honey bees’ survival may harm the planet’s nourishing superfoods that you love to eat—such as fruits and nuts—that the honey bee pollinates.

Honey, known as Mother Nature’s “nectar of the gods,” is an ancient remedy noted in the Bible and used for centuries to quell a cough, soothe a sore throat, energize you, and even calm frazzled nerves due to stressors such as post-COVID-19 virus variants and climate change health effects.

Enjoy gripping and adventurous survival stories about honey bees and humans as well as fascinating reasons why the popularity of honey is soaring, Manuka honey medicinal uses are surging, and herbal flavored varietals are trending. You’ll also love new heart-healthy recipes with honey twists such as Whipped Ricotta Toast with Lemon Thyme Honey, Hot Honey Glazed Turkey Loaf, and Turmeric Honey Immunity Booster, plus buzzworthy home cures thanks to honey’s gifts (including super “bee foods” like propolis and royal jelly) from the hive!

“This eye-opening book provides you with a delicious truth of the traditional Mediterranean diet. Honey is a sumptuous route to optimal health.” —Dr. Will Clower, author of The French Don’t Diet Plan 

5 Anti-inflammatory Honeys & the Mediterranean Diet Work to Keep You Working!

   5 ANTI-INFLAMMATORY HONEYS 

By Cal Orey, M.A.

While my original “bible on honey” was penned fifteen years ago at Tahoe, a newly revised second edition of the #1 hit, is coming in August 2026! I noticed it's maintained #2 Top Best Seller in antioxidants on Amazon for a special deal at 1.99; it is sandwiched in between anti-inflammatory books and Mediterranean diet books--a big trend. 

Yep, as one reader told me, all the diseases and ailments I write about are linked to one culprit--INFLAMMATION!  Indeed! So, "inflammation has been dubbed the silent killer," notes The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth author Dr. Bowden. He penned the foreword for the revised edition. Research in the new release shows inflammation is the culprit for obesity, diabetes, heart disease... And yes, the #Mediterranean diet with its clean foods and #honey are anti-inflammatory gifts from the hive!

These honeys are anti-inflammatory--which can help keep infections at bay stopping the scourge of chronic diseases developing, including immunity health scares like viruses and even pneumonia to a life-threatening cardiac event. 

Why Honey from the Hive Makes a Cool Gift for Hot Summer Days and Nights.

Cinnamon Honey: Infuse raw honey with cinnamon sticks. Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It pairs wonderfully with apple dishes, oatmeal, or iced teas and coffees.  

Ginger Honey: Infuse raw honey with fresh ginger slices. Ginger honey is excellent for soothing sore throats and boosting immunity, making it ideal for summer ailments. Serve in tea or over roasted root vegetables. 

Orange Zest & Clove Honey: Infuse raw honey with orange zest and whole cloves. This combo evokes classic aromas and flavors. Orange zest provides vitamin C, and cloves offer antioxidants Great for glazes on grilled fish or poultry. 

Rosemary Honey: Infuse raw honey with fresh rosemary sprigs. Rosemary has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Its earthy, piney flavor complements savory dishes like salmon or chicken, and can also be surprisingly good in herbal teas. 

Vanilla Bean Honey: Infuse raw honey with a split vanilla bean. Vanilla adds a rich, comforting sweetness without being overpowering. Vanilla beans contain antioxidants. This is a luxurious addition to coffee, Greek yogurt, or as a drizzle over summer fresh berries.

These infused honeys offer unique flavors and health benefits, thanks to their anti-inflammatory effects, making them excellent gifts—as additions to clean food summer meals and beverages.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. Currently, the updated and revised 2^nd edition, 2026 of a popular Healing Powers book, is launching in August!  Her website is www.calorey.com

Pre-Order for Summer of 2026! Enjoy the Classic 1st Edition Now

(Special pre-Fourth of the July Amazon 1.99 SALE)

The Healing Powers of Honey 2 is the NEW Anti-inflammatory Bible!

  UNVEIL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY HONEYS 

Pre-Order for Summer of 2026! Enjoy the Classic 1st Edition Now

(Special pre-Fourth of the July Amazon 1.99 SALE)

By Cal Orey, M.A.

While my original “bible on honey” was penned fifteen years ago at Tahoe, a newly revised second edition of the #1 hit, is coming in August 2026! I noticed it's maintained #2 Top Best Seller in antioxidants on Amazon; it is sandwiched in between Anti-inflammatory books--a big trend. Yep, as one reader told me, all the diseases and ailments I write about are linked to one culprit--INFLAMMATION!  Indeed! So, "inflammation has been dubbed the silent killer," notes The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth author Dr. Bowden. He penned the foreword for the Revised edition. Research in the new release shows inflammation is the culprit for obesity, diabetes, heart disease... Yes, the #Mediterranean diet and #honey are anti-inflammatory gifts from the hive!

These honeys are anti-inflammatory--which can help keep infections at bay stopping the scourge of chronic diseases developing, including immunity health scares like viruses and even pneumonia to a life-threatening cardiac event. 

Why Honey from the Hive Makes a Cool Gift for Hot Summer Days and Nights.

As noted, the delicate floral notes with a sweet finish and tang for me make it a gourmet item that's a cut above regular honey. It's a culinary adventure in a jar! It can be drizzled over yogurt, oatmeal, or toast, used in baking, paired with cheeses, or even added to cocktails for a sophisticated twist. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties make it a gift that's both delicious and good for the mind, body, and spirit.
Here are 5 healthy infused raw honeys you can make for a festive touch during the summertime season. 

Cinnamon Honey: Infuse raw honey with cinnamon sticks. Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It pairs wonderfully with apple dishes, oatmeal, or iced teas and coffees.  

Ginger Honey: Infuse raw honey with fresh ginger slices. Ginger honey is excellent for soothing sore throats and boosting immunity, making it ideal for summer ailments. Serve in tea or over roasted root vegetables. 

Orange Zest & Clove Honey: Infuse raw honey with orange zest and whole cloves. This combo evokes classic aromas and flavors. Orange zest provides vitamin C, and cloves offer antioxidants Great for glazes on grilled fish or poultry. 

Rosemary Honey: Infuse raw honey with fresh rosemary sprigs. Rosemary has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Its earthy, piney flavor complements savory dishes like salmon or chicken, and can also be surprisingly good in herbal teas. 

Vanilla Bean Honey: Infuse raw honey with a split vanilla bean. Vanilla adds a rich, comforting sweetness without being overpowering. Vanilla beans contain antioxidants. This is a luxurious addition to coffee, Greek yogurt, or as a drizzle over summer fresh berries.

These infused honeys offer unique flavors and health benefits, thanks to their anti-inflammatory effects, making them excellent gifts—for you/yours—as additions to clean food summer meals and beverages.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. Currently, the updated and revised 2^nd edition, 2026 of a popular Healing Powers book, is launching in August!  Her website is www.calorey.com

Discover Honey's Amazing Bee-Healthy Powers in the Chronic Disease Era

 Overview (Pre-Order for August 25--click on overview.) And now, sit down and warm up with the groundbreaking classic on Amazon Special Deal for 1.99 ranking #2 in 100 Best Sellers in different categories; and catch up for the unveiling of HONEY 2!)

Learn how to boost your immune system, combat ailments, and so much more, all with the natural power of honey—the pantry staple and sustainable superfood that’s also the green choice for healthy living, homeopathic remedies, and natural cures.

A newly revised and updated edition of the #1 hit, now with new research, heart-healthy recipes, honey bee data, and home cures!

DISCOVER HONEY’S AMAZING BEE-HEALTHY POWERS
Did you know? . . .

Eating honey, Mother Nature’s ancient medicine, can still work its healing magic and help lower the risk of disease—adding quality and years to your life—at any age!

The buzz: Consumers are seeking healthy alternatives to refined sugar due to concerns about obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the #1 killer.

Yes! Raw, unprocessed honey is more popular than ever before and is touted a “superfood” as it replaces unhealthy table sugar and artificial sweeteners—helping to combat the skyrocketing rise in chronic ailments and life-threatening diseases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health.

Increasing threats to honey bees’ survival may harm the planet’s nourishing superfoods that you love to eat—such as fruits and nuts—that the honey bee pollinates.

Honey, known as Mother Nature’s “nectar of the gods,” is an ancient remedy noted in the Bible and used for centuries to quell a cough, soothe a sore throat, energize you, and even calm frazzled nerves due to stressors such as post-COVID-19 virus variants and climate change health effects.

Enjoy gripping and adventurous survival stories about honey bees and humans as well as fascinating reasons why the popularity of honey is soaring, Manuka honey medicinal uses are surging, and herbal flavored varietals are trending. You’ll also love new heart-healthy recipes with honey twists such as Whipped Ricotta Toast with Lemon Thyme Honey, Hot Honey Glazed Turkey Loaf, and Turmeric Honey Immunity Booster, plus buzzworthy home cures thanks to honey’s gifts (including super “bee foods” like propolis and royal jelly) from the hive!

“This eye-opening book provides you with a delicious truth of the traditional Mediterranean diet. Honey is a sumptuous route to optimal health.” —Dr. Will Clower, author of The French Don’t Diet Plan 

An Up Close and Personal Interview with Author Cal Orey

 Cal Orey

• Previous

Cal Orey, M.A. is an author and non-fiction novelist. Her books include the Healing Powers Series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, Herbs and Spices) published by Kensington. (The collection has been featured by the Good Cook Book Club.) Orey’s new book is Soulmates with Paws. 

Granola Girl’s Healing Power’s Series: A Treasure Chest of Goodness

Are there any classic novels that you only recently read for the first time?

Well, it’s not a “classic” but it is a bestseller and I finally read it. I savored the short and oh so sweet, Tuesdays with Morrie. As a ghostwriter I was told by the client that this is the kind of vibe he wanted for the non-fiction novel I wrote for him. 

The end is a bittersweet one. I was promised co-author credit. The client fibbed and my name is not on the book. I did pen The Healing Powers of Tea, and tea plays a big role in his book. So in my heart I know it’s my baby.

You’re organizing a party. Which two authors, dead or alive, do you invite? 

I would love to host John Steinbeck. He input his emotion into his work. And, of course, Travels with Charley is one of my favorites books. When I was in my early twenties, I left Northern California and hitched and hiked with my dog in search of America. Steinbeck was my mentor, my teacher, my hero. 

Next up for tea and scones, would be Stephen King. I would love to hear him tell a spooky tale. One late winter, I drove from Lake Tahoe to Reno for a book signing. He was there a week prior. It was a hard act to follow. But I got a call from the manager a day before my event. She said, “I don’t know how to tell you this but all of your books sold out.” So, I took my beloved Brittany and we ended up bringing more books to the bookstore. 

Who are your favorite writers? Are there any who aren’t as widely known as they should be, whom you’d recommend in particular? 

The trio of authors I chose for my oral exams in grad school are still my favorite writers. So, it’s John Steinbeck, Edward Albee (I was going to be a playwright), and George Elliot who had a sensitive husband who trashed her bad reviews. (My professors did approve of the master. However, they said they hoped I became an author—not a literature teacher.)

What do you read when you’re working on a book? And what kind of reading do you avoid while writing?

I read books and articles related to my chosen topic. I make a point of it to choose a different angle, style, and turn the subject matter upside down—this way it’s all mine. I stay clear of novels because it’s too distracting and takes me out of the zone.

What moves you most in a work of literature? 

When the author reveals the inner self and isn’t timid to share feelings—that is what makes me laugh or cry.

What genres do you especially enjoy reading? 

My favorite genres include Sci-Fi, Romance, and Adventure.

What book are you planning to read next? 

I’m too busy writing. I will not be reading but writing Book 2: Soulmates with Paws: A Collection of Tales & Tails.

What books and authors have impacted your writing career? 

Anne Rice taught a class at San Francisco State University—and she was amazingly real. Rice told us when we write we should pretend to disrobe and share ourselves without inhibitions. And that’s just what I do.

UPDATE: June 13, 2026--I have penned more books and novels for myself and as a co-author or developmental author. The Healing Powers series continues to thrive. The Healing Powers of Honey, Revised and Updated, Top Rated #1 label on Amazon... Launch date August 25, 2026. Available for pre-order and the groundbreaking first edition is currently on sale on Amazon to catch the buzz before the NEW edition rocks your world!