Apricot kernels are seeds found inside the apricot pit. Purified apricot kernel oil is sometimes used as a flavoring agent in food, and the kernels themselves may be consumed in small amounts.
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| Apricot kernes and fruits |
Therapeutic Effect
According to the literature, the apricot kernel comprises various polyphenolic compounds such as anthocyanin, phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids, Vitamin E, and quality proteins. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), apricot seeds, commonly known as Xing Ren, are highly valued for their medicinal properties. These seeds possess a warm and bitter profile, which makes them suitable for addressing various health concerns. Xing Ren enters into the Lung and Large Intestine meridians. To preserve its therapeutic properties, Xing Ren is often added near the end of the decoction process when preparing herbal remedies.
The primary actions of Xing Ren in TCM are twofold:
Stops cough and calms wheezing: Xing Ren is known for its ability to alleviate coughs and calm wheezing. By targeting the Lung meridian, it can help to soothe irritated airways and promote easier breathing, making it a valuable remedy for respiratory issues.
Moistens the intestines to relieve constipation: In addition to its respiratory benefits, Xing Ren is also employed to address constipation. Its association with the Large Intestine meridian allows it to moisten the intestines, promoting smoother bowel movements and providing relief from constipation.
Two faces of Amygdalin
Xing Ren(apricot kernel) contains a chemical called amygdalin, which is one of active ingredients and cause of side effects. When ingested, amygdalin is converted into cyanide in the stomach. It has been utilized in the pharmaceutical industry due to their amygdalin content, which has been used to prevent and treat various diseases such as migraine, constipation, asthma, hypertension, and coughs. They are also used in traditional medicine, including Chinese Guangmo moon cakes, which treat respiratory illnesses. The market value of apricot kernel in pharmaceutical industries has grown rapidly, as it is used to create medicines for cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and more. Apricot kernel extracts are effective antifungal agents, while the oil promotes blood circulation and reduces pain and inflammation. Apricot kernel flour is used in herbal tea for various ailments, and the kernel's properties are beneficial in treating skin conditions such as acne, dandruff, and furuncles.
Amygdalin and its semi-synthetic form, laetrile, were once marketed as potential cancer treatments. However, subsequent research has shown that they offer no benefit in the fight against cancer. Neither amygdalin nor laetrile is approved by the US FDA for any use.
The primary concern regarding the consumption of apricot kernels is the potential for cyanide poisoning due to the amygdalin content, which can cause severe side effects such as seizures and even death. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should be particularly cautious, as consuming large quantities of apricot kernels may pose a risk of birth defects. Ingestion of apricot kernels by expectant mothers can lead to thyroid disease during pregnancy and expose them to cyanide and thiocyanate.
Possible symptoms with amygdalin:
nausea, fever, headache, insomnia, thirst, nervousness, joint and muscle pains, low blood pressure, and in severe cases, coma
Dosage:
It is essential to limit the intake of apricot kernels, you should not eat more than 0.37g per adult per day, which is the equivalent of 1-2 small kernels(European Food Safety Authority) According to Commission Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1237, apricot kernels (unprocessed whole, ground, milled, cracked or chopped) must not contain more than 20 mg/kg of hydrocyanic acid. Eating more than this amount could cause an acute health risk. Children should not eat apricot kernels.
The safety of decoctions prepared in TCM or virgin apricot kernel oil remains uncertain, as they may still contain cyanide. In TCM, apricot seeds are typically prescribed in doses ranging from 3 to 9 grams. In Ben Cao Gang Mu, it is mentioned that "when using apricot seeds, soak them in hot water, remove the skin and the end part (embryo part), and roast until they turn yellow. Alternatively, roast with wheat bran." The toxicity in apricot seeds is mainly due to amygdalin, which is primarily contained in the embryo part. Amygdalin is vulnerable to heat and mainly found in the embryo part, so the end part is removed, and the seeds are thoroughly roasted before use in TCM.
Reference;
Seung Choi, Traditional Medicinal Herbology, second edition (Lecture notes)
Akhone MA, Bains A, Tosif MM, Chawla P, Fogarasi M, Fogarasi S. Apricot Kernel: Bioactivity, Characterization, Applications, and Health Attributes. Foods. 2022 Jul 22;11(15):2184.
https://www.fsai.ie/faq/apricot_kernels.html
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-952/apricot