Are bitter apricot kernels toxic?
Nov 12, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Xiuhong
Introduction
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.
Bitter almonds are generally toxic, but they also possess certain medicinal value. The specific analysis is as follows:
Bitter almonds contain amygdalin and the enzyme emulsin. When these substances come into contact with water, they produce hydrogen cyanide. Hydrogen cyanide can bind to hemoglobin in red blood cells, impairing oxygen delivery and metabolism within tissue cells, leading to cellular hypoxia and potentially even death. Consuming excessive amounts of bitter almonds or their extracts may cause poisoning symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, arrhythmia, and hypotension. Besides their toxic components, bitter almonds also have some therapeutic benefits. In traditional Chinese medicine, bitter almonds are used to treat symptoms such as coughing and asthma. Trace amounts of hydrogen cyanide can inhibit the respiratory center, producing antitussive and anti-asthmatic effects.
It is recommended to thoroughly soak bitter almonds in warm water before consumption to reduce their toxicity. Cooking by boiling or stir-frying can also help lower toxicity. However, even after processing, bitter almonds still retain some level of toxicity and should therefore be consumed with caution.
