Overview

Apricot kernel is the seed found inside the apricot pit. It contains a chemical called amygdalin, which the body turns into cyanide. It can be toxic.

Amygdalin from apricot kernel and a semi-synthetic form of amygdalin known as laetrile were once marketed to fight cancer, but research has shown that they don't help. Laetrile and amygdalin are not approved by the US FDA for any use. Amygdalin is converted into cyanide in the stomach.

People use apricot kernel for treating cancer, but there is no good scientific evidence to support this use. It is also unsafe when consumed in larger amounts. Purified apricot kernel extract or oil are sometimes used in topical products and to flavor liquors.

Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Ineffective for

  • Cancer. Taking apricot kernel or amygdalin, a chemical in apricot kernel, by mouth doesn't seem to help treat cancer. It can also cause cyanide toxicity.

There is interest in using apricot kernel for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Purified apricot kernel oil is used as a flavoring in food. Apricot kernels are also sometimes consumed, but no more than 2 small apricot kernels or half of a large apricot kernel should be taken daily. Consuming larger amounts is likely unsafe. Apricot kernels contain amygdalin. The body converts this chemical to cyanide, which can cause serious side effects, including seizures and death.

There isn't enough reliable information to know if non-purified or virgin apricot kernel oil is safe. Poorly or partially processed apricot kernel oil might contain cyanide.

When applied to the skin: Purified apricot kernel oil is likely safe. There isn't enough reliable information to know if non-purified or virgin apricot kernel oil is safe.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Purified apricot kernel oil is used as a flavoring in food. Apricot kernels are also sometimes consumed, but no more than 2 small apricot kernels or half of a large apricot kernel should be taken daily. Consuming larger amounts is likely unsafe. Apricot kernels contain amygdalin. The body converts this chemical to cyanide, which can cause serious side effects, including seizures and death.

There isn't enough reliable information to know if non-purified or virgin apricot kernel oil is safe. Poorly or partially processed apricot kernel oil might contain cyanide.

When applied to the skin: Purified apricot kernel oil is likely safe. There isn't enough reliable information to know if non-purified or virgin apricot kernel oil is safe.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Apricot kernel is likely unsafe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding due to its cyanide content. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: It is likely unsafe for children to consume whole apricot kernels. Apricot kernels contain cyanide, and even one-half of a single apricot kernel can cause serious side effects in small children.

Interactions

We currently have no information for Apricot Kernel overview.

Dosing

Purified apricot kernel oil is used as a flavoring in food and liquor. It is also sometimes used in cosmetic products.

When taken as medicine, there isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of apricot kernel might be. But large doses can be dangerous. Apricot kernel contains the chemical amygdalin. Amygdalin is converted into cyanide in the body and can cause cyanide poisoning.
View References
Show More Show Less

CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is licensed from Therapeutic Research Center, LLC. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
Licensed from Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Copyright © 1995-2025 by Therapeutic Research Center, LLC. All Rights Reserved.