Apricot pits - harm or benefit? We are talking about the kernels of apricot kernels, which are hidden under the shell.
There is a myth that apricot seeds are terribly harmful and toxic, as they contain dangerous hydrocyanic acid.
This is just a myth.
It is almost impossible to get poisoned with apricot pits.

The experience of many generations of people testifies to the safety of apricot kernels. In Uzbekistan, these bones are traditionally eaten. Just like in many other countries where apricots grow.

As a child, I myself ate raw apricot pits in whole handfuls. Fortunately, they were cheap in Tashkent. They were sold in the bazaar both peeled and in shells.

And we always cooked and nothing else! Like all our friends.
Every time they ate an apricot, the seeds were not thrown away, but put in a special jar. Then they sat together in the kitchen and pricked these bones for jam. No one has ever poisoned with apricot pits, never even heard of such a possibility!

Therefore, I was very surprised when I was told that apricot pits should not be eaten and they are harmful. How is it - it is impossible ?! All my life I eat them and I rejoice, and then suddenly they are harmful. I came to grips with this issue and found out many interesting facts.

Composition of apricot kernels

Let's take a closer look at the composition of apricot kernels. What do they contain?

• First of all - fatty oil,
• as well as proteins,
• essential oil,
• vitamins,
• micro and macro elements,
• natural pigments, including carotene.
• Also, apricot pits contain hydrocyanic acid (in negligible amounts, harmless to the body!)
• and the glycoside amygdalin. By the way, almonds also contain hydrocyanic acid and amygdalin - are you not afraid to eat almonds? Also sources of amygdalin are buckwheat, millet, beans and flax.

Let's take a closer look at the amygdalin. Let's figure out what kind of substance it is.

Amygdalin - aka "laetril" (English Laetril), aka vitamin B17. Definition from Wikipedia:

Amygdalin is a gencibioside of mandelic acid nitrile C20H27NO11, a glycoside contained in the seeds of many plants of the Prunus genus, giving them a bitter taste. First isolated from the bitter almond Prunus amygdalus var. amara.

In the human body, amygdalin breaks down into several simpler substances, including glucose and hydrocyanic acid. But a healthy human body secretes a special enzyme to neutralize amygdalin. This enzyme is rhodanase. It blocks the formation of hydrocyanic acid from amygdalin. therefore in a healthy body, amygdalin breaks down only with the formation of glucose, without hydrocyanic acid ... In addition, rhodanase is able to bind hydrocyanic acid, if it nevertheless entered the body from the outside in small quantities. Rhodanase converts it into safe salts, which are excreted in the urine. Hydrocyanic acid does not accumulate in the body.

In the body of cancer patients, the enzyme beta-glucosidase is produced in large quantities. Under the action of this enzyme, amygdalin decomposes with the formation of hydrocyanic acid and benzaldehyde. These poisons act on cancer cells, killing them. At the same time, healthy cells are protected from poisons with the help of rhodanase.

In some varieties of apricots, the bones are tasteless, bitter. In bitter pits, amygdalin is found in much greater quantities than in sweet ones. Sweetish pits contain on average about 0.9% amygdalin, while bitter pits have an average of 5%, depending on the variety of apricots.

For more detailed numbers and cultivar concerns, see the study: Fatma Akinci Yildirim and M. Atilla Askin: Variability of amygdalin content in seeds of sweet and bitter apricot cultivars in Turkey. African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 9 (39), pp. 6522-6524, September 27, 2010; The research is available online at http://www.academicjournals.org/AJB; DOI: 10.5897 / AJB10.884

Perhaps, if a cancer patient eats a large amount of bitter apricot kernels, he will achieve poisoning - he simply does not have enough rhodanase in his body to neutralize hydrocyanic acid and benzaldehyde. But tell me, who will do this on purpose? This is not a reason to declare apricot pits harmful. In large doses, any medicine becomes a poison, and apricot pits are no exception.

The benefits of apricot kernels

Apricot kernels have a high nutritional value along with almonds and nuts.

Traditionally, apricot pits are used in folk medicine to treat various diseases. I quote a quote from the book of Doctor of Medical Sciences, Professor L.V. Pastushenkov. "Medicinal plants: use in folk medicine and everyday life." - L .: Lenizdat, 1990

Nitrogen-containing compounds (amygdalin, hydrocyanic acid), essential and fatty oils were found in apricot seeds. The latter contains oleic, linolenic, arachidic and other acids.
"Apricot milk" is produced from the seeds. It is used as an antitussive agent for whooping cough, bronchitis, hiccups, inflammation of the trachea, pharynx and kidneys.
When treating heart disease, the seeds of the fruit are brewed like tea. In their raw form, they are anthelmintic.

Apricot milk is prepared in the same way as - see recipe.

Due to the content of amygdalin in apricot kernels, they are used as a preventive and drug against cancer. I recommend reading, which describes in detail the action of amygdalin. The author also considers the question of why it is not profitable for the American government to spread information about the medicinal properties of apricot kernels and where did the rumors about their harm come from.

The apricot is a fruit whose country of origin is still unknown. So, some scientists suggest that the plant originally grew in Armenia, others lean towards Kazakhstan. Now the trees of this fruit can be seen where there are appropriate climatic conditions for them.

Some information about the fruit

Over the course of several hundred years, a number of varieties of this plant have been bred, which have also adapted well to a frost-resistant climate. The trees can be up to a hundred years old. They can be seen in warm countries. Apricot fruits are somewhat reminiscent of a peach, which are also similar in color. The orange color of the fruit indicates that it contains carotene, which is necessary for the human body. It contains useful trace elements, vitamins, tannins, phosphorus, calcium, essential oils.

As a rule, apricots are eaten fresh or dried. It should be noted that in any form, the fruit is very useful and retains all useful substances.

What is the composition of the apricot kernel kernels?

One of the main components of the fruit is amygdalin. Today, there are many questions and opinions about whether the treatment of apricot kernel cancer is a myth or a reality. So, the content of B17 in the fruit is compared with the chemotherapy procedure, but not harmful to health. Therefore, most people have a question: "Apricot pits from cancer - how to take them in the fight against this disease?" You will see the answer to this question in our article.

In addition, the seed of this fruit contains such components as proteins and acids, phospholipids and essential oils, and various kinds of trace elements.

Also, amygdalin itself contains which is harmful to the human body when consumed in very large quantities. One of the interesting facts about kernels is that the more bitter they taste, the more toxic substances they contain. In this case, it is advised to take bones with a sweet component, since they are the most useful and valuable in quality.

Can apricot pits be eaten?

There is such a judgment, which states that there was a Tibetan settlement. Here, residents took a few kernels of the fruit every day. As the researchers know, none of the settlers suffered from cancer. And women gave birth even at the age of 55, which was not outlandish and unhealthy for them, despite their rather large age.

According to statistics, those who consume these constituents of the fruit, even in adulthood, have excellent physical condition and mind.

With regard to the effectiveness of cancer treatment with apricot pits, traditional medicine has been using them for quite a long time. And not only with this disease. But, as well as with pneumonia and asthma. In addition, the kernels of apricot kernels are an excellent remedy for satisfying hunger. A few pieces are enough for a person to work actively, without thinking about food, for three hours.

Why do apricot pits taste bitter?

Having tried several types of grains of this fruit, it can be noted that some of them have a sweetish aftertaste, while others, on the contrary. But even in the first case, the presence of bitterness is felt.

Scientists say that this is a consequence of the presence of toxic substances in them. Only their concentration is different. In the case when the apricot kernel is sweet with a little bitterness, it can be eaten in the absence of contraindications.

If you come across a bone with a very bitter content, then you do not need to eat it. Since it is this terrifying taste that reports a large amount of hydrocyanic acid in it.

What is the difference between almonds and apricot pits?

It would seem that they are one and the same. But by telling the representative of Central Asia about this, you will make them smile. Yes, because they are absolutely two different things, although they are similar in the composition of nutrients.

The difference between them is as follows:

• the kernel of the almond is elongated and oval, while that of the apricot is slightly flattened and roundish;
• almonds are larger than the kernel of our fruit;
• the color of the first is more saturated than the first core.

Almonds are more popular than apricot kernels. They can be purchased at any chain of stores. It also contains slightly more beneficial micronutrients than orange fruit kernels.

Apricot pits: benefits and harms, useful properties

The kernels of this fruit are considered interesting in various discussions by scientists due to its heterogeneous composition. Most people, having eaten the pulp of an apricot, throw out their seeds along with the contents, not realizing their benefits.

The kernels of this plant are used both in perfumery, and in medicine and cooking. They are used for pneumonia, bronchitis, cancer. The treatment of cancer with apricot pits is not a well-studied topic, therefore, in traditional medicine, the substance is used in small quantities.

As a rule, culinary experts use kernels to decorate the dish and to give it a specific taste.

In folk medicine, urbech is made from this content of apricot seeds. It consists of grains, honey, and butter. This remedy is very good for colds and is used to strengthen the immune system.

The harm of apricot kernels is that they contain a lot of sucrose. For this reason, people with diabetes mellitus and prone to obesity should not use it. Another contraindication is the presence of cyanide in it, which later turns into hydrocyanic acid. By eating apricot pulp and nuts, this poison can be neutralized. But if consumed in large quantities, you can get food poisoning.

Also, doctors do not recommend using this product for pregnant women, people with thyroid problems, with liver diseases. Children should not eat more than ten kernels a day, provided that they do not have allergies. In this case, you need to see a specialist and take an antihistamine.

Apricot pits for cancer: how to take them for prevention and in case of illness?

Amygdalin and pigmatic acid present in the nuclei of the fruit are those substances that have a detrimental effect on cells affected by oncology. Scientists have proven that moderate consumption of grains leads to inhibition of the growth of affected tissues and to their regeneration.

Despite the fact that some researchers talk about the dangers and the likelihood of toxic nuclear poisoning, this phenomenon is rare. As stated, they should be taken in small amounts. Apricot pits for cancer, how to take them? First, you only need kernels from wild plants that grow away from the road. Secondly, for the effectiveness of apricot grains, they are destroyed before direct intake. You only need raw kernels. And the brighter their color, the more nutrients they contain.

How much apricot kernels for cancer how to take? The number of grains depends on the body weight of a person. There should be one core per 5 kg. If the patient develops unpleasant symptoms, then the number of grains should be reduced. They must be eaten on an empty stomach.

There are all kinds of rumors about the benefits and dangers of apricot kernels (kernels). When consumed in excess, they can pose a health hazard in the same way as almonds, but, on the other hand, contain vitamin B17 or laetrile, which has positive effects on the immune system and acts as an alternative agent for the prevention or treatment of cancer.

In addition, apricot seeds () are a rich source of magnesium. Let's see if it is possible to eat apricot pits, what are their benefits and potential harm.

Health effects

Scientists interested in the reasons for the longevity of the inhabitants of the Hunza tribe (Pakistan) have found that their diet contains a high proportion of apricots, their kernels and oil.

The healing properties of bones are represented by the content of a large percentage of salicylic acid - an antibacterial component - capable of destroying microbes in the stomach and intestines, as well as stopping putrefactive processes.

Also noteworthy is the high beta-carotene content, which has an effect on reducing the risk of heart attack, contributing to good vision, healthy skin, hair and nails. What apricot pits are good for is due to the presence of vitamin C.

Scientists have shown that the acid in apricot kernels can prevent the uncontrolled growth of leukemia cells. Just 3 per day will provide half of the daily requirement for vitamin A. Potassium is very important for proper water management in the body.

Both the apricots themselves and their seeds are alkaline, due to which they are able to keep a counterbalance to the prevailing acidic foods in the diet of a modern person.

The combination of dried fruits and kernels contains a combination of health benefits and valuable substances not found in other fruits.

Cancer prevention

Apricot kernels are high in magnesium and potassium. The healing properties of bitter (non-sweet) species are further represented by the presence of a substance called amygdalin (known as vitamin B17).

Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glycoside that cleaves hydrocyanic acid in the presence of water. This substance has been widely used in alternative cancer treatments (traditional medicine) for many years.
In the 70s, studies were conducted that confirmed the effect of amygdalin (B17) on tumor cells.

However, mainstream medicine and doctors deny or underestimate its effect. However, it is possible to trace and evaluate (independently) from a series of patient testimonies the percentage of positive results where the use of apricot kernels had a beneficial effect on the course of the disease.

Important! Eating seeds (bitter) is only part of a comprehensive cancer treatment approach. Additional measures need to be taken to strengthen and mobilize the immune system.

What is Vitamin B17?
As mentioned above, under the name of vitamin B17 is a substance called laetrile, which also contains amygdalin molecules found in many edible plants, especially in the kernels of apricots and almonds.

At the same time, they are present in the grains of apples, pears, plums, cherries and oranges, as well as in blackberries, raspberries and even in legumes, some cereals, and macadamia nuts. There is a theory according to which the increase in the incidence of cancer is associated precisely with the lack of vitamin B17 in the diet of modern mankind.

How does a healing substance work in oncology?
Amygdalin contains 4 components:

• 2 - glucose;
• 1 - benzaldehyde;
• 1 - cyanide.

Cyanide and benzaldehyde are poisons released or released as pure molecules not associated with other molecular entities. Many cyanide-containing foods are safe because the cyanide stays bound and incorporated into another molecule and cannot be harmful.

In normal cells there is an enzyme that "catches" free cyanide molecules and detoxifies them by binding to sulfur. This enzyme, which stimulates a reaction and binds free cyanide molecules to sulfur, is called rhodanase. As a result of the combination of cyanide and sulfur, cyanatane is formed - a neutral substance that is easily excreted in the urine and does not damage normal cells.

But tumor cells are not normal. They contain an enzyme not found in other cells, beta-glucosidase. It is present exclusively in cancer cells and is considered a "release enzyme" by amagdilin molecules. It releases benzaldehyde and cyanide, creating a toxic mixture that acts over the capabilities of the individual components. Thus, the cancer cell's beta-glucosidase induces self-destruction.

Amygdalin or laetrile, in combination with protective enzymes in healthy cells and unblocking enzymes in cancer cells, is able to destroy cancer cells without endangering healthy ones. In comparison, it kills many normal cells and reduces the function of the immune system while destroying an indefinite number of cancer cells.

Along with the benefits, the harm of apricot kernels is also known - rare cases of allergy or intolerance to the product have been registered. If side effects appear (nausea, dizziness, etc.), it is necessary to reduce the amount consumed to that which does not cause negative reactions.

For this reason, it is important to start with a small amount, slowly and gradually work up to the recommended amount. Watch your body's reactions closely.

Dosage and method of administration for oncology
In the treatment of oncology, the correct admission plays an important role. How many apricot kernels can you eat per day? It depends on the stage of the disease.

1. Recommendations for the number of cores consumed vary from 2 to 10 cores per day. The optimal dose is: 1 piece per 10-13 kg of body weight.
2. In case of nausea, stop taking for 3-6 hours. At this time, drink a little 1.5 liters of warm water, then reduce each serving.
3. For prophylaxis, chemotherapy or radiation, it is recommended to take 1/2 the therapeutic dose.
4. It is important to know how to use: the seeds should not be swallowed whole, they should be crushed. You can do this with a coffee grinder and add yogurt or muesli.
5. Apricot kernels, which are high in B17, are very bitter. Bitterness can be reduced by consumption with fruit juice or (even better) with apricots, papaya, or pineapple, whose enzymes support the effect of amygdalin.

Respiratory (bronchitis, cough) and heart disease

The benefits of bones extend to treating bronchitis, laryngitis, respiratory catarrh, tracheitis, whooping cough, and even heart disease. For these health problems, it is recommended to take 1 tsp. (without a slide) of powder per day. Such therapy shows the greatest effects in arrhythmias, tachycardia and coughs of various etiologies.

Healing powder
The natural medicine is prepared using a coffee grinder. To do this, remove the shell from the grains and dry them. Grind. The powder is ready.

Diabetes

For the treatment of diabetes mellitus, the medicinal product should be taken with extreme caution - it contains sugar! The optimal recommended dosage is 3 pieces per day (in powder form) half an hour before meals, which must be washed down with water (at least a glass). The therapeutic course is 3 weeks.

Useful grains will help get rid of worms. For this, it is recommended to use them in an amount of 2-3 pieces per day - preferably in the form of a powder, washed down with water or stirred in water.

Despite the content of nutrients, due to the presence of hydrocyanic acid (cyanide) and other toxic elements, bones are not recommended for pregnant and lactating women. Their use should be discontinued even during pregnancy planning and should not be started until lactation has completely ceased!

Acceptance of bones in children

Adult women and men

For both men and women, nucleoli are useful due to their ability to strengthen the immune system and, therefore, prevent various diseases, incl. civilizational. The substance amygdalin is responsible for this - a natural remedy that increases the ability of the blood to fight pathogens.

Apricot oil for external beauty

Among the main benefits of the oil is the high content of B vitamins. The combination of the B-complex with vitamins A, C and F makes it a unique cocktail that benefits not only in terms of improving health, but also in terms of body beauty. Internal reception helps to restore skin cells, while external - makes it smooth and healthy. Suitable for all skin types.

A well-known feature of the oil is its softness, due to which it can be used to care for the skin of young children. Despite the benefits for all skin types, the greatest effects appear on dry skin, where the oil soothes and helps to quickly restore the protective film. Its advantage lies in the absence of fat content after application and good absorption.

Due to these properties, the oil is often used for massage, in which it inhibits inflammation in the affected areas. Good results, visibly reducing the appearance of acne.

In the case of eczema, it soothes the skin and helps relieve unpleasant feelings of tension. Seed oil has extraordinary regenerating effects and is therefore used to soothe irritated and burnt skin. It moisturizes well, prevents the formation of wrinkles, and promotes the formation of collagen.

Cold-pressed oil preparation
The kernels must be peeled and the kernels must be left to dry completely. After several weeks of drying, cut them into pieces, heat briefly in the oven at 80C, then press down with a small but powerful press to release the cold-pressed virgin oil.

Thermally cooking oil
The second option is the thermal path, when the dried crushed kernels are heated in a hot water bath at 80 ° C for 60 minutes, decanted, and the solid residues are squeezed out.

All liquid should be left to stand in the refrigerator, preferably in a PET bottle. The next day you will see a separate top layer of apricot oil and water that has settled down below. Drain the water with a tube, cut the bottle and take away the hardened oil.

Cold pressing will bring quality oil while retaining all important components. The thermal path will bring more oil.

The problem is that the apricot kernels are poisonous. The cyanide contained is responsible for this. The drug amygdalin is a glycoside that is converted to hydrocyanic acid during digestion. It is characterized by the famous sweet almond scent known from the detectives of Agatha Christie.

However, as in any natural substance, the content of amygdalin in each nucleus is different. To prevent adverse effects, it is important to know how much you can eat per day.

Experts say that the amount of 5 pieces per day cannot be exceeded. However, the recommended therapeutic doses for oncology are incomparably higher.

Another problem is that it is impossible to estimate a safe amount of a toxic substance, so any consumption can easily lead to poisoning. By the way, apricot kernel poisoning is very unpleasant. It can cause seizures, vomiting and respiratory muscle paralysis, which can lead to death.

This should be taken into account by people who have contraindications for consumption: children, pregnant and lactating women.

Is it possible to eat apples from apples, some people ask this question when they start eating tasty and juicy fruits. The apple itself is a very valuable and healthy fruit, and this product comes in a variety of varieties and ripening periods.

The seeds from apples, the benefits and harms of which have been the cause of controversy among many experts for several years, can be included in your diet, but subject to certain rules.

Internal composition of seeds from apples

Apple seeds contain the following beneficial elements:

• fatty oils, up to 35% of the total bone mass;
• protein;
• sucrose;
• vitamin B17. This vitamin, also called letril, is a very rare and important trace element. The daily norm of an element is in 4-5 bones;
• mineral elements, iodine with a daily requirement in 10 seeds and potassium with a content of 200 mcg in a stone.

The benefits of apple seeds

Apple kernels contain vitamin B17, which is quite important for humans, letril, which is a rare but useful trace element. This vitamin slows down the spread of tumor cells, therefore leading oncologists recommend the use of apple seeds for prophylactic purposes in cancer.

Vitamin B17 increases the activity of the body and improves its general condition. A person receiving such a vitamin in the required dose feels and looks much younger than his peers.

Apple seed contains a high content of iodine. With a lack of such a trace element, a person is characterized by constant headaches, distracted attention, memory loss, frequent change and deterioration of mood. To equalize the iodine content in the patient's body, the attending physicians prescribe to eat up to five apple seeds a day in order to take part of the daily intake of the element.

However, apple changes are not the only source of iodine, so you need to include in your daily diet and other food that allows you to bring the iodine content to normal.

When absorbing juicy apples, it can be cut in half and fresh seeds removed. After that, these seeds must be crushed in any available device to powder. The prepared powder can, as an option, be mixed with honey of any collection in a ratio of one to two. After that, such a mixture can be safely added to kefir, yoghurts, cereals, or generally taken as a separate supplement in the amount of one teaspoon per day. The daily allowance for grains is five or six.

When studying the properties of seeds from apples, useful substances were discovered in their composition that help in the fight against wrinkles. After this discovery, the bones have been widely used in cosmetology in the manufacture of creams, scrubs and face masks.

To make apple cosmetics at home, you need to cut the entire apple, including the seeds, while removing only the rough leaves from the core of the fruit.

Due to their great biological power, apple seeds are widely used in modern seed therapy courses in the treatment of internal organs of patients. So, for example, when undergoing a course of treatment for su-jok, apple seeds are applied to the biologically active points of the patient's palms and feet, which are responsible for the state of one or another internal organ.

Harm from apple seeds

In addition to the benefits, apple grains, if used incorrectly, can be very harmful. This is due to the fact that fruit seeds contain a very dangerous substance - amygdalin glycoside, which turns into hydrocyanic acid in the human stomach. This acid - called cyanide - is a powerful poison.

However, the human immune system with an unweakened and healthy body is ready to cope with an insignificant amount of such poison. Therefore, with a rationed intake of apple grains in food, they will not bring harm, but only benefit.

Now it is clear why you cannot eat large quantities of apple pits. Uncontrolled intake of grains from apples can lead to food or even chemical poisoning with possible death.

The main symptoms of hydrocyanic acid food poisoning are:

1. Respiratory problems leading to choking.
2. Sudden changes in blood pressure and heart rate.
3. Profuse vomiting.
4. Intolerable head pain.
5. Unconsciousness.

In case of such poisoning, it is necessary to call a team of doctors and urgently rinse the stomach. Failure to provide timely qualified assistance can lead to death.

It should be borne in mind that the poison in the pits of apples disintegrates during heat treatment, therefore, compotes, jams and other dishes that contain fruit seeds do not pose any danger to human health.

It should be remembered that tinctures and liqueurs made at home from fruit with seeds without heat treatment can lead to food poisoning.

Contraindications

Apple seeds, although they are a good source of iodine, are contraindicated in women during pregnancy and breastfeeding. And there are objective reasons for this. Expectant mothers are very susceptible to all harmful and toxic substances, the influence of which can cause a deterioration in the general well-being of a woman, headache and severe toxicosis.

To maintain a normal iodine content in a woman in a position that is important for the expectant mother herself and the growing fetus, it is necessary to include fruits and foods with iodine in the diet, as well as vitamin complexes prescribed by the attending physician.

Babies with a developing immune system inherent in them cannot fight even with a minimal amount of toxic acid. Therefore, children should generally be protected from the consumption of pitted fruits. Therefore, such grains should not be eaten by women who are breastfeeding.

Apricot seeds can help expel worms, heal the heart, and even prevent cancer.
The sweet, aromatic fruits that we all love to feast on are not just delicious. They are very useful, and - to the very bone. The fragrant grains contain a substance that can cure a cough and dermatitis. It is apricot oil that has always been judged by its weight in gold.

What is the secret of apricot seeds?

Apricot pits smell like almonds. They contain amygdalin - it is also called vitamin B17, - says phytotherapist Elena Baklyukova. - It is also found in bitter almonds, pits of apples, cherries, peaches, plums, millet. This vitamin, according to some studies, prevents cancer, but recently it is questionable. They also contain carotene and other essential vitamins that make bones a universal medicine.

In addition, apricot kernels contain a unique oil that treats dermatitis, sore throats, runny nose, annoying cough, can replace an expensive nourishing cream (vitamin F is especially useful for the skin, accelerates cell regeneration, controls the work of the sebaceous glands, restores balance, counteracts the formation of acne) ...

This oil acts as an antibiotic. If there are wounds on the tongue or gums (stomatitis), then you can chew an apricot kernel, this fatty gruel relieves pain and inflammation.

Is it true that you can't eat a lot of apricot seeds?

Amygdalin breaks down in the intestines, forming hydrocyanic acid, and it provokes severe poisoning. Therefore, apricot pits can be eaten only a little - a maximum of 3 - 5 pieces per day for adults and adolescents. By the way, this is a recognized anthelmintic agent. And if you add crushed seeds one at a time to tea, you get a good prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Nutritional value

Apricot kernels are a controversial health food and suggest cancer prevention and treatment. The seeds contain monounsaturated fat and are a good source of protein and dietary fiber. The oil in the seeds has vitamin E. However, the seeds also contain cyanide, a potentially deadly toxin. Although your body can detoxify small amounts of cyanide, eating too many apricot seeds or kernels can be hazardous to your health.

Bitter and sweet apricot pits

The nutritional value and toxicity of apricot kernels vary by cultivar. Some apricot seeds are sweet and contain cyanide. These sweet apricot seeds are suitable substitutes for almonds. Bitter seeds contain higher levels of cyanide. The product label should indicate whether apricot seeds are considered sweet or bitter. However, expect a little bitter taste even from sweet apricot seeds.

Calories, nutritional value

A 1/4 cup serving of apricot kernels contains 160 calories. Only 1 gram of fat is saturated fat. Apricot pits do not contain cholesterol, they contain a small amount of sodium or potassium. A serving of apricot kernels contains 7 grams of carbohydrates with 2 grams as sugars and 5 grams of dietary fiber. One serving of apricot kernels contains 7 g of protein. Apricot seeds are not a significant source of most vitamins or minerals, but there are 4 milligrams of vitamin E per 100 g serving of apricot oil.

Amiglalin and pangamic acid

Apricot seeds contain amygdalin, which some researchers believe helps prevent and cure cancer, and pangamic acid, which may be helpful in treating coronary heart disease. Levels of these compounds are highest in raw, whole apricot kernels as opposed to cooked or processed ones. You may find that amygdalin is referred to as vitamin B-17 and pangamic acid as vitamin B-15, but these substances are not recognized as vitamins and are considered unsafe for use in food or medicine.

Safe consumption

Cyanide occurs naturally in apricot seeds and related foods, including cherries, peaches, and almonds. The amount of cyanide in apricot seeds varies by size and variety, but on average, an apricot seed contains 0.5 milligrams of cyanide. The lethal dose of cyanide ranges from 0.5 to 3.5 milligrams per kg of body weight, depending on factors including age and liver health. Based on medical history, the lethal dose for an 80 kg person was 80 to 560 apricot kernels per day. For a 60-pound woman, the lethal dose would be 65 to 455 seeds per day. Toxicity occurs at lower doses, so the lethal range should be considered the extreme upper limit.

See how to separate seeds from pits:

Vitamin B17: Apricot Pits and Cancer

Apricot kernels - the seeds in the center of the fruit - are characterized by high levels of B17. While not technically a vitamin, B17 is consistently referred to as such. The Vitamin and Nutritional Guidelines describe B17 - also known as amygdalin - as having properties useful in reducing arthritis-related pain and lowering blood pressure. However, the most commonly cited attributes of the amygdala revolve around perceived cancer control and prevention capabilities.

Cancer application

Extracted from apricot kernels, amygdalin has been used since the early 1950s to create a chemically modified version of B17 known as Laetrile. Although their names usually change, amygdalin and Laetrile do not share the same qualities. Laetrile is known for killing cancer cells while leaving normal cells unchanged. Hence, Laetrile's reputation is based on the idea that it has the same benefits of chemotherapy without side effects or disadvantages.

What research shows

The results of a clinical study conducted between 1979 and 1981 showed that the use of Laetrile was not an effective treatment for cancer. In fact, within three months of starting the study, 91% of those who took part saw their cancer was actually progressing. Consequently, since then, the American Cancer Society and other leading cancer researchers have found that apricot kernel extract is not an effective cancer treatment.

The cyanide problem

The practice of consuming large amounts of apricot kernels every day as a cancer-fighting drug has survived largely on anecdotal evidence. However, not only is the consumption of apricot kernels ineffective against cancer, it poses additional health risks when consumed in abundance. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the cyanide levels in apricot kernels pose a health risk.

The American Cancer Society further claims that B17, when consumed in combination with a high vitamin C content, increases the amount of cyanide released in the body and increases the risk. Safe amounts of amygdalin depend on the person's age and size, diet, and general health. It is best to consult your doctor before consuming large quantities of apricot kernels.

Toxicity

Inside the fruit is one large seed, which is enclosed in a hard shell. Although the flesh of the fruit is most commonly eaten, few people realize that the bones are edible. Seeds, or "kernels," are a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Plus, they're cholesterol-free and a rich source of vitamin E and heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.

Apricot kernels are advertised as healthy foods. Apricot kernels can range in flavor from mildly sweet to very bitter. The sweeter variety is similar in taste and texture to almonds and can sometimes be used as a substitute in recipes. Amaretto, a type of almond-flavored lemongrass, is sometimes made with apricot kernel extract. In addition, the kernel oil can be extracted and used for cooking.

Despite the beneficial properties of apricot kernels, they are high in amygdalin, which is a potentially toxic cyanide-containing molecule. Side effects of the toxicity of this compound include headache, nausea, fatigue, and lethargy. The molecule has been known to have anti-cancer properties for years, but recent research has challenged these claims. A clinical study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that amygdalin was potentially toxic and unsuitable for cancer treatment.

Although apricot kernels are potentially toxic, poisoning due to amygdalin is relatively rare. A study in the Annals of Emergency Medicine published the effects of the poisoning and described them as similar to cyanide toxicity. However, the number of apricot kernels that must be consumed in order to lead to these symptoms is very large. Eating one seed no more than once a day is safe for healthy adults, and the health benefits outweigh the potential risks.

Apricot kernel oil for skin

Apricot seed oil is a light and gentle oil used in creams, lotions and other cosmetics to balance, nourish and lubricate your skin. According to the University of Minnesota, organic apricot oil is cold pressed and has a very low scent, making it an excellent carrier oil used to dilute aromatic essential oils prior to application to the skin. Store organic apricot oil by refrigeration in an airtight container for up to a year. Throw away the apricot oil if it becomes rancid or discolored. Avoid buying synthetic apricot oil, which is extracted with chemical solvents and lacks its natural color and aroma.

Moisturizes

Apricot kernel oil is light and gently moisturizes the skin. Choose apricot oil for moisturizing balanced skin, oily skin and skin with hormonal imbalances. The light texture of apricot oil makes it useful in facial serums or oil blends used to moisturize the face. Apricot oil is light enough that after use it does not leave greasy on the skin. While apricot oil is most beneficial for oily oxydis, it is mild enough to be used on all skin types. Apricot oil will also help rehydrate dry skin.

Nourishes

Apricot kernel is rich in gamma-linoleic acid, which is derived from essential omega-6 fatty acids. Its content in apricot oil helps the skin maintain moisture balance. The acid also plays a role in firming and toning your skin, according to Close. In addition, organic apricot oil contains vitamins A and E, which soothe the skin and slow down the signs of aging. The nourishing properties of apricot oil are anti-inflammatory and can soothe minor skin conditions such as eczema. Check with your doctor about your skin condition before using apricot oil.

Lubricates

Apricot seed oil provides lubrication to the skin. As a light and gentle lubricant suitable for sensitive skin types, apricot oil is often used in massage. Use apricot oil as a lubricating ingredient in lip balms. Apricot oil is suitable for use on the sensitive skin of your lips.

Other uses of apricot oil

Apricot oil is a thin, odorless oil pressed from the seeds or kernel of an apricot - Prunus armeniaca. Commonly used in the massage world, apricot oil is a versatile oil that has several benefits, depending on how you use it.

Readily available

Generally, in large quantities, apricot oil is readily available in natural health stores and pharmacies both in-store and online. Prices vary depending on factors such as how the apricot is extracted from the pits. Apricot oil has a texture and color similar to that of sweet almond oil Generally, apricot seed oil has a longer shelf life than other commonly used oils.

Vegetable oil

Apricot kernels are used to make a versatile oil suitable for all types of cooking. Rich in monounsaturated fat, edible apricot oil can help lower LDL or "bad" cholesterol and promote cardiovascular health, especially when used in recipes instead of other sources of saturated fat.

Skin enrichment

Paula Begun, author of The Complete Bible of Beauty, notes that apricot oil is one oil with a lipid content similar to that of your skin. When the lipid content of the skin becomes too low, dryness and irritation occur; Topical application of apricot oil can help soothe and heal rough, damaged skin. The fine texture of the oil allows for faster penetration into the skin, which promotes faster healing and healing of wounds or cracked skin without residue. Shirley Price, co-author of Aromatherapy for Healthcare Professionals, notes that apricot oil is also helpful in relieving itching and skin irritation caused by eczema. As an added benefit, he points out that apricot oil helps prevent and minimize the appearance of wrinkles.

Aromatherapy

According to Phyllis Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of The Recipe for Nutrition, apricot oil is the primary use as a carrier oil in aromatherapy. When using apricot oil topically, you can mix it with several different essential oils, including lavender, chamomile, rose, lila, jasmine, and ylang ylang, to create a pleasant yet gentle massage oil. Balch recommends 25 drops of essential oil per 32 ml of apricot oil for massage for adults.