A single seed that is found within the stone of the apricot is popularly known as Apricot kernels. They are white in color when plucked from the tree and turn light brown when dried. According to some people, apricot kernels are a superfood that consists of cancer-fighting agents and detox-enhancing attributes that help holistic cancer treatment. In this article we will try to find out whether the statement is true or not, whether is apricot kernel helpful, or it is a myth.
Apricot kernels are almost similar to almonds but if we compare them by size, The size of apricot kernels is smaller than almonds. They are a rich source of
- 20-25 percent of protein
- 7-8 percent of carbohydrates
- 5-6 percent of fiber
- 47-55 percent of oil
The processed oil is used in cooking in the same way as the almond oil is used.
Fun Fact: There is a dish in Egypt in which coriander seeds and salt are mixed with the ground apricot kernel to make an old traditional snack popularly known as “Dokka”.
Are seeds helpful to fight against cancer?
According to scientists, there is a compound in apricot kernels, namely Amygdalin that might be able to remove tumors and can stop the cancerous cells to reproduce, and help in holistic cancer treatment.
A rodent study was conducted in the year 2011 where rats were given 1.5 mg of ground apricot seeds for three days against seven days and the dosage was given for a total of four weeks. These were not normal rats, but the rats were suffering from liver fibrosis. After the complete dosage, it was found by researchers that there is a significant improvement in the functioning of the liver.
One more study was conducted in 2005 in a laboratory, where it was found that Amygdalin can restrain genes that help in cell growth.
Another study was conducted by vivo studies and clinical trials in 2019 where it was found that Amygdalin has an oncopreventive effect.
Fun Fact: kernels and oil which are processed from the bitter family of apricot are used in cosmetics such as face cream, body oil, other essential oils, and lip balm. In India, apricot oil is used for massage as it provides relief from pains and aches.
Additional Amygdalin Benefits
- Rich in vitamin A, C, and E helps in eliminating toxic cells.
- Decreases pain in arthritis and other inflammatory/painful diseases.
- It improves immunity by boosting the white blood cells.
- Reduces hypertension.
Explain Amygdalin in Detail?
Amygdalin is a component of the apricot fruits’ pit that can be further transformed into Cyanide by the body.
A toxic element that is naturally present in small amounts in some fruits, namely apples, peaches, lima beans, and other foods is known as Cyanide. Excess quantity can make you sick, and you can even die.
Some people believe that cyanide helps in killing cancer cells and helps in holistic cancer treatment, but there is a lack of scientific evidence for this.
Presence of Amygdalin
There are many fruits in which amygdalin is present, such as plums, cherries, clover, and apples.
Many processed foods are rich in amygdalin such as almond finger biscuits, apricot jams, and amaretto biscuits.
Explain Laetrile and Vitamin B17
A synthetic form of amygdalin is known as laetrile and is also popular as Vitamin B17. It is used as a holistic cancer treatment. It is produced by a chemical reaction with water from amygdalin, but it is not proven by research.
Laetrile is taken by some people with the hope that:
- It will help in improving life and sense of wellbeing
- As a cleanser of the body
- Increase their level of energy
- Prolonged life
- Holistic cancer treatment
Side effects of an overdose of laetrile are:
- Dizziness
- Damage to liver
- Low Blood pressure
- Blue skin due to lower oxygen level
- Vomiting, nausea, and head pain
- Coma
- Death
- Fever
- Walking difficulty due to nerve damage
- Fasten heart rate
Get emergency medical help right away if you feel any of the symptoms as a wastage of time or can lead to nerve damage, paralysis, coma, and death. Please take medical advice before taking any home remedy for cancer treatment.
Consumption of Amygdalin
You should not consume apricot kernels more because you may get sick if you are taking them for a longer period of time. Do not make a pair of extra vitamin C and amygdalin. This combo can lead to a higher level of cyanide levels and that can lead to death as cyanide takes a lot of oxygen.
- For many people, the easiest way is to eat apricot kernels.
- Ten kernels per day are sufficient for the consumption of the laetrile proponents.
- You can take it in the form of tablets, which are easily available online.
- Skin lotion
- Injections
Research
No clinical trials on humans have proved that apricot has anti-cancer treatment effects.
But a study was done on animals in labs that turned out mixed results. In some cases, there were no benefits but in other amygdalin has shown a reduction in pains or slowed down the pains. It even kills the cell that generates the tumor. Cancer that is included is:
- Bladder
- Lungs
- Cervix
- Colon
- Kidney
- Prostate
Wrapping Up
With no clear evidence that apricot kernels are a holistic cancer treatment or not, but apricots are a good source of vitamin A and C in addition to being rich in potassium and dietary fiber.
It is a natural supplement and better taken in appropriate quantity fresh or dried, both as excess quantity may be injuries for health, so take the quantity that is recommended by the doctor.
Doctor advice is necessary before starting any cancer treatment. Take a healthy diet and medicines prescribed by the doctor with a positive attitude as it will help you in curing cancer.
Scientists have not stopped their studies. Till the time it is not proven, we cannot say that apricot kernels provide holistic cancer treatment.
