What is Apricot Kernel Extract?

Apricot Kernel Extract is derived from apricot seeds and typically contains amygdalin, also marketed as laetrile or “Vitamin B17.” In the body, amygdalin can be broken down into compounds that may release cyanide.

Does Apricot Kernel Extract have proven health benefits?

No proven clinical benefits have been established in controlled human studies. Claims such as anticancer effects are not supported by reliable clinical evidence.

Why is Apricot Kernel Extract considered dangerous?

It can lead to cyanide poisoning, which can be severe and life-threatening. Risk may increase with higher intake or when combined with other sources that affect cyanide metabolism.

What are signs of possible cyanide poisoning from apricot kernel products?

Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headache, weakness, confusion, and breathing difficulty. Seek urgent medical care if poisoning is suspected.

Who should avoid Apricot Kernel Extract?

People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, children, and anyone with underlying health conditions should avoid it due to toxicity risk. Anyone considering it should consult a qualified clinician, especially if taking medications or other supplements.

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Apricot Kernel
Extract

Limited research available·3/10

A higher score indicates better study conditions, but not necessarily effectiveness.

Apricot kernel extract (mainly amygdalin/laetrile) is a controversial supplement with significant cyanide poisoning risks and no proven clinical benefit.

Anti-inflammatory Cancer-inhibitor

dose range

0–0

Consumption

Use is not recommended due to toxicity risk; no safe intake established.

Not fat-soluble.

Best time

—

There is no safe timing or dosage.

Description

Apricot kernel extract is derived from apricot seeds and contains amygdalin (often called laetrile or 'Vitamin B17'). It's promoted mainly for anticancer properties but is unproven and associated with dangerous cyanide toxicity.

benefits

Main effects with level of evidence

Limited

Note on evidence

Clinical evidence does not support benefits; toxicity is well-documented.

No established clinical benefits

Limited

Despite claims of anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects, controlled human studies have not validated any health benefits for apricot kernel extract. Potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects are based solely on preliminary animal or in vitro evidence, and there is no reliable human data supporting medicinal use.

Particularly relevant for: None

1 · NIH Cancer.gov—Laetrile/Amygdalin (PDQ®)2 · PubMed: Amygdalin attenuates inflammatory responses in animal models 3 · PubMed: Amygdalin: Acute and chronic toxicity and analgesic effects in rats

Safety & Information

Important safety information & known risks

For educational purposes only • not medical advice

Use of apricot kernel extract is unsafe for most people due to the risk of severe and potentially fatal cyanide toxicity.

warning notices

Serious risk of cyanide poisoning at commonly promoted doses.
Deaths and severe side effects reported, especially in children.
No clinical benefit established for any health condition.
Contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and people with liver or kidney issues.
Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding due to severe toxicity risk.
Avoid use if you have liver or kidney disease.
Risk of cyanide poisoning; use only under strict clinical supervision, if at all.
May cause serious side effects, including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and potentially fatal toxicity.
Monitor for signs of poisoning (confusion, difficulty breathing, weakness) if accidentally ingested.

Known interactions with medications