Is bitter apricot kernel a food that is not prone to causing poisoning?

Mar 29, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Shuwen

Introduction

Bitter apricot kernels are generally considered foods prone to causing poisoning. Bitter apricot kernels are a type of medicinal substance with certain toxicity. Long-term use or exceeding the recommended dosage may lead to adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, palpitations, and numbness of the mouth and tongue. In severe cases, symptoms may include coma and dilated pupils. Therefore, they must be used only under medical supervision to avoid poisoning.

Bitter almonds are generally considered a food prone to causing poisoning. The specific analysis is as follows:

Bitter almonds are a type of substance with certain toxicity. Long-term use or exceeding the recommended dosage may lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, palpitations, and numbness of the mouth and tongue. In severe cases, symptoms may include coma and dilated pupils. Therefore, they must only be used under medical supervision to prevent poisoning. Bitter almonds can be effective in treating coughing, wheezing, and constipation due to intestinal dryness. They are suitable for patients whose coughs are caused by pathogenic factors obstructing the lungs or impaired lung qi. Their function of moistening the intestines and relieving constipation comes from their oily and lubricating nature, making them beneficial for constipation caused by intestinal dryness. However, bitter almonds contain hydrocyanic acid (hydrogen cyanide), which can suppress respiration; in serious cases, this may lead to respiratory muscle paralysis and shock.

Therefore, bitter almonds are not a safe food and should be consumed with caution. If excessive consumption leads to symptoms of poisoning, immediate medical attention is required.

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What toxin is present in bitter apricot kernels?

The toxins in bitter apricot kernels are amygdalin and amygdalase, which produce hydrogen cyanide that can inhibit respiration and lead to poisoning. As a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, bitter apricot kernel has effects such as relieving asthma, suppressing cough, moistening the intestines, and promoting bowel movements. When amygdalin and amygdalase in bitter apricot kernels come into contact with water, they generate trace amounts of hydrogen cyanide, which can suppress respiratory function; excessive consumption may result in food poisoning.

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Can bitter apricot kernels be eaten?

Bitter apricot kernels can generally be taken in moderation, but excessive consumption should be avoided to prevent adverse effects on health. As a type of traditional Chinese medicine, bitter apricot kernels are rich in dietary fiber and trace elements. When taken appropriately under medical guidance, they can promote gastrointestinal motility and effectively relieve constipation caused by improper diet.

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What should I do if I accidentally ate a bitter apricot kernel?

In general, accidentally eating one bitter apricot kernel will not affect your health, so there is no need to worry excessively or take special measures. Bitter apricot kernels contain cyanide, which can be hydrolyzed in the gastrointestinal tract to produce a toxic substance. However, accidentally consuming one kernel usually does not lead to food poisoning.

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Can bitter apricot kernels be eaten every day? The correct way to eat them

Bitter almonds should not be consumed daily. The recommended single intake should not exceed 10 grams. Bitter almond contains amygdalin, which, under the action of the enzyme amygdalase, can produce hydrogen cyanide and benzaldehyde. Excessive consumption may inhibit cellular respiration and lead to poisoning symptoms. Generally, a single intake of no more than 10 grams—approximately 50 to 120 kernels—is unlikely to cause cyanide poisoning or suffocation.

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What are the effects and benefits of stir-fried bitter apricot kernels?

Stir-fried bitter apricot kernels are a type of bitter apricot kernel used as a cough-relieving and asthma-soothing herb. They are slightly toxic and are associated with the lung and large intestine meridians. Generally, they offer various benefits such as nutritional supplementation, moistening the intestines to relieve constipation, relieving cough, improving skin health, and nourishing yin to moisten the lungs. Bitter apricot kernels contain fatty oils, which typically provide a lubricating effect, promote gastrointestinal motility, and help improve symptoms of constipation and indigestion.

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Is it toxic to use processed bitter apricot kernels in medicine after boiling?

Decocted bitter apricot kernels are toxic when used medicinally and should be taken only as directed by a physician. Decocted bitter apricot kernels are commonly used to treat symptoms such as cough and asthma. However, they are considered slightly toxic. When prepared and used in medicinal formulations, they may be taken under medical supervision. Avoid long-term or excessive use to prevent adverse reactions or harm. If any discomfort occurs, patients should seek medical attention promptly.

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Are bitter almonds more likely to be toxic, or are sweet almonds more likely to be toxic?

Compared to sweet almonds, bitter almonds are more likely to cause poisoning. If poisoning occurs, seek medical attention promptly. To prevent poisoning, drink plenty of water after exposure to help replenish lost body fluids, and consume appropriate amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables to restore nutrients and alleviate discomfort.

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Are bitter apricot kernels toxic?

Bitter apricot kernels contain amygdalin and amygdalase. When these two substances come into contact with water, they produce hydrogen cyanide, which can bind to hemoglobin in red blood cells, impairing oxygen transport and metabolism within tissue cells, leading to cellular hypoxia and potentially even death. Ingestion of excessive amounts of bitter apricot kernels or their extracts may also cause symptoms of poisoning.

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