In Ayurveda, honey is widely used in therapeutics as an important vehicle (Anupana) for drug administration through the oral route and also in the preparation of various medicaments. In this present study, attempt was made to compare physico-chemical analysis of different samples of honey collected from different sources. Samples of honey were collected from natural habitat (Sample A), local pharmacy (Sample B), GMP certified pharmacy (Sample C), AGMARK certified company (Sample D). These samples are compared for their physico-chemical characteristics with standards of API. Results revealed that in Fieche’s test except for sample A, other samples turned to in cherry red colour indicating addition of artificial invert sugar in the samples of honey. The Specific Gravity was least in Sample C and was most in Sample D. pH value of Sample A was similar to API standard where as in other samples was more. Least Ash value of 0.023% was found in sample D and most in sample A. The refractive indices of all the samples were similar. Fructose/Glucose ratio was more than 1 in all the samples. All the samples were soluble in water and insoluble in alcohol. n. p. Honey collected from natural habitat (Western Ghats) complied with the API standard.

Key words: Ayurveda; Honey; Physico-chemical analysis; Fieche’s Test.