Bitter Apricot Kernel

APRICOT KERNEL

An apricot kernel is the seed of an apricot.

It is known for containing amygdalin, a compound which, together with the similar compound laetrile, has been marketed as a cancer treatment with some clinical evidence for its efficacy.

Seeds or kernels of the apricot are grown in central Asia. Oil pressed from these cultivars has been used as cooking oil.

Apricot kernels can sometimes be strong-tasting and bitter. They feature in recipes for apricot jam, and Italian amaretto cookies and liqueur. Taken in excess, they may produce symptoms of cyanide poisoning including nausea, fever, rash, headache, insomnia, increased thirst, weakness, lethargy, nervousness, various aches and pains in joints and muscles, and a drop in blood pressure.

APRICOT KERNEL must be used in any form under advice of Medical Practitioner only.