home Audience 3 What are the benefits of the apricot kernel? Recipe for apricot jam with pits. Are they good for health and why?

What are the benefits of the apricot kernel? Recipe for apricot jam with pits. Are they good for health and why?

The juicy pulp of apricots is rich in vitamins and substances important for our health, but is it worth eating apricot seeds, the benefits of which are so controversial?

Photos of apricots

It is no coincidence that the apricot is popularly called the “fruit of health”, because its pulp is saturated with vitamins B1, B2, B9, E, A, P, PP, C, H. It also contains a lot of iodine, iron, magnesium, sodium, potassium and phosphorus, sulfur, calcium and silicon. In addition, apricot fruits contain malic, citric, salicylic, tartaric acids, starch, inulin, dextrin, tannins, pectin and sugars.

Delicious apricots are quite suitable for those who adhere to a diet, since the calorie content of fresh fruits is very low (100 g contains 43 kcal). Dried apricots are much higher in calories - more than 230 Kcal per 100 g, but minerals there is more in it than in juicy apricot pulp.

Video about apricot kernels

Despite low calorie content, it should be taken into account that garden apricots are not inferior in sugar content - up to 27% in fresh fruits. In dried pulp, the percentage of sugars increases two to three times. Therefore, if you are predisposed to diabetes, you should be very careful when consuming apricots and especially dried apricots.

Regular consumption of fresh apricots has a very beneficial effect on the body, allowing you to effectively cope with various problems with health. Juicy, aromatic apricots help:

maintain a healthy cardiovascular system;
remove cholesterol from the body, as well as salts of heavy metals;
prevent the development of thyroid diseases;
regulate hematopoietic processes;
eliminate swelling;
increase hemoglobin in the blood;
stimulate brain activity and improve memory;
prevent vitamin deficiency;
cope with constipation;
lower blood pressure;
improve the functioning of the intestines, liver, gall bladder;
regulate stomach acidity;
cope with dry cough and stimulate sputum production;
quench.

Apricots in the photo

Based on the listed healing properties, apricots are recommended to be included in the diet of pregnant women, young children, hypertensive patients, those who suffer from obesity, anemia, constipation, cardiovascular or kidney diseases, as well as cancer patients in addition to maintenance therapy.

To improve your health, it is enough to consume 100-150 g of fresh apricots per day. Just don’t eat them on an empty stomach or after meat dishes, as this will have a bad effect on digestion.

Apricot juice is absorbed faster and more efficiently - it is especially recommended for expectant mothers and children to drink it to meet their daily requirement for vitamins. So, 150 ml of juice is enough to replenish the supply of carotene in the body, and to combat swelling you need to drink 100 ml of juice up to eight times a day.

Dried apricots are significantly superior to beef liver in their beneficial effects on the process of hematopoiesis. Dried apricots should be consumed if there are disorders heart rate, anemia, hypertension, and also for constipation - plant fibers remarkably cleanse the intestines.

Photography of dried apricots

Everyone's favorite apricots, the benefits and harms of which have been well studied by experts, are not as harmless as they seem. So, if you have gastritis with increased acidity or, even worse, a gastrointestinal ulcer, you should abandon fresh apricots in favor of more gentle apricot juice. And in case of pancreatitis and other liver problems, use the fruits with great caution.

Although apricots are very tasty and healthy, you shouldn’t even get carried away with them healthy people: sometimes even ten fruits are enough for diarrhea to begin (especially if you drink them cold water). In addition, from overuse apricots may cause dizziness, decreased blood pressure, decreased heart rate and respiratory depression.

As mentioned above, apricots are loaded with sugars and for this reason are contraindicated for diabetics. Moreover, not only dried apricots, but also fresh fruit pulp should not be consumed.

Apricots in the photo

Apricot kernel - health benefits and harms

Many people know how poisonous apricot kernels can be, beneficial features are not known to everyone. But in oriental medicine apricot kernels have long been used as a miracle remedy that saves from various diseases of the upper respiratory tract: from bronchitis, tracheitis, bronchial asthma, laryngitis. It is enough to extract the kernels from twenty seeds, dry them and grind them thoroughly, and then take the resulting powder four times a day, a teaspoon, with milk or tea.

Video about apricot kernels

But if you consume apricot kernels excessively, their benefits will come to naught due to amygdalin, a toxic component that turns into hydrocyanic acid in the digestive organs, which is very dangerous for the body. Apricot kernels contain only 12% amygdalin, so they are not as dangerous as those that are not eaten raw at all.

For those who do not want to take risks, it is more suitable apricot oil, obtained from seeds. Its composition is unique: linoleic, stearic, palmitic, myristic and oleic acids, phospholipids, magnesium and calcium salts, vitamins E, C, A, B. The benefits of the oil are evidenced by the fact that it is widely used in production various ointments, creams and children's cosmetics. Apricot seed oil perfectly moisturizes the skin, prolonging its youth, eliminates dead skin particles and heals cracks well.

Common apricot is a tree 5-8 m in height. Bears juicy, yellowish-red fruits with sweet pulp in June-August. For his own purposes, a person uses apricot fruits, its seeds, apricot gum (stains of a yellowish mass on the trunks). Gum is used in medicine for the production of blood-substituting fluids. The fruits not only have an excellent taste, but also have many beneficial properties.

Apricot kernels also have a healing effect, the benefits and harms of which should be known to those who are going to use them for therapy.

People have known about the benefits of apricot kernels for a long time, because it was brought to Russia from the West back in the 17th century, and since then it has taken root well in warm regions. Siberian apricot, the most frost-resistant of all varieties, is common in Eastern Siberia.

Chemical composition

Apricot kernels are rich in vitamins and nutrients
What are the benefits of apricot kernels? They are eaten like any other nut. Depending on the variety, each seed contains from 35 to 60% oil. Its chemical composition is similar to peach oil.

Apricot kernels are very high in calories: 100 g of product contains 520 kcal.

Raw seeds are rich in:

nutrients;
water;
vitamins C, E, P, group B;
microelements (iron);
macroelements (K, Ca, Mg and others).

This composition provides medicinal properties, and this is what apricot kernels are useful for:

Vitamin B15 contained in the product lowers cholesterol and benefits the liver;
K, Ca, Mg improve heart function, promote the conduction of nerve impulses;
Iron increases hemoglobin.

Blackberries will also help increase hemoglobin and normalize blood composition.

The seeds also contain the glycoside amygdalin, lactase, and hydrocyanic acid. Processed different ways the seeds continue to retain their beneficial properties. The daily intake of the product for an adult is 20-50 g, for children - no more than 25 g. We should not forget that apricot kernels can bring both benefit and harm - if they are overdosed.

Not too long ago, a vitamin was discovered in these nuts, indexed B17. There is still controversy about its ability to suppress the growth of cancer cells. Some experts believe that the vitamin contained in apricot kernels brings not only benefits, but also harm.

How are they useful?

Apricot kernels can help overcome many diseases. Even in ancient China, oil extracted from the seeds was used to treat skin and joint diseases. To the question of whether they are harmful or not, we can answer the following: if you take apricot kernels correctly, their benefits are fully revealed, and there is practically no harm to the human body.

A significant benefit of apricot kernels for the body is the prevention and treatment of malignant tumors. It is believed to be destructive cancer cells The cyanide contained in vitamin B17 works. For healthy cells in small quantities this compound is not dangerous; its effect is directed only at atypical cells. A drug called Laetrile was even created, which contains apricot cores. However, US scientists believe that the drug is too toxic and does not have sufficient effect on cancer cells. Thus, the question of whether apricot kernels bring benefit or harm when oncological diseases, is not completely closed today.

The composition of the seeds determines the beneficial properties of apricot kernels. The substances contained in them can have a positive effect on the urinary and respiratory systems and improve immunity. Products made from apricot nuts, have an expectorant effect.

Apricot kernel kernels alleviate the condition of:

bronchitis and pneumonia;
cold;
jade;
decreased immunity.

The apricot kernel is beneficial, but it can also cause harm to the body if used incorrectly.

Benefit or harm?

When using the core of the fruit for treatment and prevention, you need to remember that the apricot kernel has both beneficial and harmful properties, as it contains a number of substances, an overdose of which can cause undesirable consequences. Thus, cyanide contained in the nuclei has a negative effect on malignant cells and promotes the development of healthy ones. An overdose of cyanide leads to the suppression of vital functions and healthy cells, which has a detrimental effect on the entire body.

It is dangerous to eat bitter seeds. Bitterness indicates the content of an excess amount of amygdalin and hydrocyanic acid. When poisoned by these substances, the brain suffers and the functioning of the central nervous system deteriorates.

For more information about whether apricot kernels are beneficial or harmful, watch the video:

Remember that eating seeds in large quantities will not bring benefits. Those who use apricot kernels for their beneficial properties should not forget about contraindications and reasonable measures, and be attentive to their well-being.

Poisoning manifests itself:

the appearance of bitterness and metallic taste, sore throat;
vomiting;
increased heart rate and breathing;
headache, dizziness.

If you have such symptoms, seek help from a doctor; do not self-medicate.

Contraindications for use

In order not to harm your body, you should know not only about the benefits and harms of apricot kernels, but also about contraindications to taking them.

Use is undesirable for:

gastrointestinal diseases;
diabetes mellitus;
allergies;
bradycardia.

In case of the listed pathologies, fruit seeds should be taken with great caution. An overdose should not be allowed: it is better to divide the drug into several doses than to take the whole daily norm at once. Otherwise, apricot pits will bring harm, not benefit.

Taking raw seeds for oncology

The benefit of raw apricot kernels is the prevention of cancer. It’s better to start by eating 1 seed three times a day. If discomfort are absent, the dose can be increased without exceeding 50 g per day. Prevention should be carried out daily all year round.

How to take apricot kernels for cancer: the dose needs to be significantly increased. Begin treatment with 5-10 seeds per day. They are taken throughout the day. The dose is individual for each person, so it is very important to monitor your well-being. To improve the taste, add a little honey.

To facilitate the work of the pancreas during treatment, it is necessary to take enzyme preparations or eat half a pineapple daily.

When asked whether apricot kernels are useful for oncology, doctors find it difficult to give a definite answer. Experts are of the opinion that this method of treatment is best combined with the traditional one.

You will learn more about whether apricot kernels can fight cancer from the video:

It may be useful for you to know that burdock root is also successfully used for cancer. Read more details

When to use medicinal infusions

The seed can be consumed not only in its raw form. Infusions from apricot kernels are beneficial, and there is no harm from their use.

To get rid of cramps and colds, use the infusion according to the following recipe orally.

10 g grains;
100 ml water.

Crush the kernels and pour boiling water over them. Leave for 3 hours. The strained product is taken 3 times a day, 50 grams each. The infusion is used to treat conjunctivitis as a lotion. The product is also used externally for diseases of the skin and joints.

Chestnut tincture will also help cure sore joints.

Thermally processed apricot kernels are beneficial, and harm is observed only if the dosage is not observed.

Jam with seeds added: what are the benefits?

Apricot jam with kernels retains the beneficial properties of fresh ingredients. However, during the cooking process the amount useful substances decreases. Therefore, jam should rather be perceived as healthy dessert, not a medicine.

In small quantities, the delicacy is useful for pregnant women, the elderly, children, and patients with heart problems.

Apricot oil

What are the benefits of apricot kernels? big amount the oil they contain. They knew how to extract it in ancient China, and it was very expensive.

Today, apricot seed oil is available to everyone.

If you prefer to be treated natural means, it can be used to treat diseases of the skin, respiratory tract, joints, and colds.

The question of whether apricot kernels are healthy can be answered in the affirmative. However, we should not forget that everything is good in moderation. If the recommended dosages are not followed, apricot kernels will not bring benefit, but harm to the body. To avoid unwanted consequences, approach treatment responsibly.

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22.10.2016

Legend has it that apricots are sparks sunlight who did not want to live in heaven, and descended to earth, turned into apricot trees...

The cure for cancer has existed longer than the disease itself, which in some cases can be associated with metabolic disorders and, first of all, with a deficiency of the basic component in the modern human diet - vitamin B17.

There is no need to look for a cure for cancer in chemical laboratories. It is found in some fruit seeds - for example, in apricots - and can not only prevent the occurrence of cancerous tumors, but also cure them.

To prevent cancer, it is enough to eat a few apricot kernels a day. As children, many of us did this - we ate the pits of apricots and other fruits, and we were frightened by the fact that they contained a toxic substance and were forced to give up this extremely healthy delicacy.

Diet of centenarians

If a person eats incorrectly, then the mountain climate will not save him from illness.

“A Hunza woman will never follow her sweetheart to a place where apricots do not grow,” says the saying of a tribe of centenarians living among Himalayan mountains on the banks of the Hunza River and calling themselves the Hunzakuts.

Average duration The life span of the Hunzakuts is 120 years. Many live more than 160 years; women, even in their old age, retain the ability to bear children and are unaware of many diseases, including cancer. Many researchers have noted that the only difference between the Hunzakuts and their neighbors is their diet, which is based on whole-flour wheat cakes and fruits, mainly apricots.

Apricots

Some doctors claim that daily consumption 7-10 apricot seeds protect the body from the development of cancer. And if cancer has already arisen, then with the help of the same apricot kernels, or more precisely with the help of the vitamin B17 they contain, you can reduce the size of the tumor, stop the formation of metastases, and even defeat the disease itself. More on this later in the article, but for now more about the apricot itself.

History of apricot

About the origin of apricot for a long time there were disagreements. Initially, botanists believed that the birthplace of this fruit tree was Armenia. That's why they gave the common apricot Latin name Prúnus armeniáca or Armeniaca vulgaris, which translated from Latin means Armenian ordinary, as if paying tribute to its homeland. However, historians claim that the apricot still comes from China, and in support of this they cite the deciphered records of the Chinese emperor who lived 220 BC. e., in which a much earlier description of the apricot is given.

Some scientists claim that the homeland of apricot is India and, according to archaeological finds, it began to be cultivated here much earlier - about 5000 years ago (which is 3000 BC). But, no matter what happened in the distant past, today the apricot has conquered the whole world. After all, it is cultivated not only in countries of Asia and Europe with warm climates, but also in Australia and in countries with temperate climates, where winter temperatures reach -30*C.

By the beginning of the 16th century, apricot had spread from Italy throughout Southern Europe and far to the north - to Germany; England, Poland and Russia. Now apricot grows everywhere. But there are places where this plant is found wild, for example in China or mountainous areas Central Asia, in the western and eastern Tien Shan and in Dagestan.

As a result of thousands of years of selection, today botanists know 7 species of this genus of plants and a huge number of varieties. At the same time, the color of the fruit is different varieties varies from various shades of yellow to deep orange and almost red. However, there are also apricot varieties with white fruits.

Despite the fact that apricots bring a bountiful harvest almost every year, the apricot season is very short. Nevertheless, dried apricots(dried apricots or apricots) are available almost the whole year.

Beneficial properties of apricot

Apricot fruits contain vitamins - A, B1, B2, B12, P, PP, C, sugar, insulin, citric, tartaric, malic and salicylic acids, silver, iron... The bark contains tannins, and the wood contains flavonoids. The leaves contain vitamin C, carbohydrates, phenol carbonic acids and flavonoids. In flowers - provitamin A. In seeds - hydrocyanic acid, essential and fatty oils.

Apricots are eaten fresh or dried. Apricots are whole dried fruits with a seed, and dried apricots are seedless. Apricots, both fresh and dried, are very good for the heart due to their high potassium content. Apricots have antimicrobial properties, strengthen the walls of blood vessels, remove cholesterol, toxins, heavy metals and decay products from the body. They are prescribed to strengthen the heart muscle, prevent atherosclerosis, for anemia, vitamin deficiency, diseases digestive system, to strengthen the immune system.

Fresh and dry fruits improve digestion and the functioning of the cardiovascular system. The significant content of iron in apricots determines their medicinal value for people suffering from anemia (100 g of apricot fruits have the same effect on the process of hematopoiesis as 40 mg of iron or 250 g of fresh liver). As a diuretic, apricots can easily replace potassium supplements, but for this you need to consume at least 1 cup of dried apricots per day - the richest source of potassium.

In medicine, apricot seeds are used to obtain apricot oil and almond water, as well as gum - a thick juice released from the bark on the surface of the trunks.

WITH therapeutic purpose Apricot seeds are used as a sedative for coughs and hiccups; they are prescribed in combination with other medicinal plants for whooping cough, bronchitis, tracheitis and laryngitis, as well as for nephritis. Apricot oil is used to prepare medicinal ointments.

A decoction is prepared from the bark of the apricot tree, which helps restore the functioning of brain cells in rehabilitation period after cerebrovascular accidents.

Patients with diabetes should limit their consumption of apricots due to their high sugar content.

Apricot kernels in cooking

Apricot kernels are added as an additive to various dishes. They are crushed or made into creams for waffles and other baked goods, added to ice cream, yoghurts, and many other sweet foods. Chopped apricot kernels can be added to compotes, jams and preserves to give them more pronounced shades of apricot flavor. It is also useful to use apricot oil as an additive in cooking.

Harvesting apricot kernels and storing them

Apricot kernels are harvested by extracting them from fully ripe apricot fruits. Stones from not fully ripe apricots have not fully ripe kernels; when dried and stored, such kernels wrinkle and lose their quality. appearance, and quality, and are not suitable for food. Ripe apricot pits can be stored either in hard shells or after peeling them. In the future, all that remains is to remove from them the thin shell, the skin that gives bitterness. You can remove this skin before drying, but with it the apricot kernels will be better stored. Next, before long-term storage, the apricot kernels are dried. Store in glass, metal or wooden jars to prevent pests from infesting them, such as food moths and other pests and worms. If stored properly, apricot kernels can be stored for quite a long time, while retaining their useful qualities and properties.

Vitamin B17. What it is?

Vitamin B17 (Laetral, Letril, Amygdalin) is one of the most controversial “vitamins” of recent decades.

It was first identified in pure form from bitter almonds back in the 19th century. Subsequently, amygdalin was discovered in fruits, more precisely in the kernels of other plants, in particular in the seeds of apricots, peaches, cherries, and plums. Not a large number of This compound is present in the seeds of pears and apples. Researchers have established the presence of vitamin B17 in the leaves of bird cherry and cherry laurel, as well as in young shoots of rowan. Another more or less accessible source of amygdalin is flaxseed.

From a chemical point of view, this substance is a combination of two sugar molecules (benzendehyde and cyanide), called “Amygdalin,” which is rich in apricot kernels. Vitamin B17 is called a “perfect chemotherapeutic agent” that selectively acts on cells: it kills cancer cells and does not harm healthy ones. Also in Ancient Egypt and China, bitter almonds were used as medicine. In 1802, one chemist obtained hydrocyanic acid from it, and in the 1830s, scientists discovered that it was formed during the breakdown of Amygdalin. In 1952, Dr. Ernst Krebs modified the process for obtaining Amygdalin from apricot kernels, named the product Laetral and stated that its anti-cancer effect was much stronger than previously thought.

Why does modern medicine ignore all natural methods of treating cancer? The answer lies not in science, but in the politics of the approach to oncology - and it is hidden in the economic motivation of those who dominate the medical business. If billions of dollars are spent annually on cancer research, other billions (or rather hundreds of billions) come from sales medical equipment, surgery, hospitalization and pharmaceuticals, then a completely understandable picture emerges before us: they “live” from cancer more people than they die from it. And if the solution can be found in a simple vitamin, then overnight a gigantic industry collapses, which, of course, resists this with all its might. Pharmaceutical companies conduct research only on the chemical compounds they invent; thus, if a drug is approved, they have exclusive rights to sell it. And they will never agree to conduct research on simple food that cannot be patented by them and is sold publicly.

The answer is simple - Western governments are bending under pressure from pharmaceutical transnational corporations: the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the American Medical Association. All of them very successfully carried out a joint campaign against vitamin B17 at one time, based on the fact that the vitamin contains “deadly” cyanide (senyl acid salts). B12 also contains significant amounts of cyanide, however, no one has removed it from stores. Dr. Krebs Laetrile was obtained from apricot kernels and then synthesized into crystal form through its own unique processes.

But suddenly the FDA bombarded the press with a story about an unhappy couple from San Francisco who were poisoned by eating raw apricot pits. Across America, this story was on the front pages.

However, journalists working on this issue were unable to identify the unfortunate couple. But the job was done. Since then, the consumption of vitamin B17 or apricot kernels has become strongly associated with suicide.

Multinational pharmaceutical companies, together with the US medical establishment, forced the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to announce illegal sale“raw” apricot kernels, as well as vitamin B17 with information attached to them about their anti-carcinogenic effect.

A world without cancer

But, based on studies and research on the properties of vitamin B17, confirmed by documents, the book “A World Without Cancer” by Edward Griffin and Dr. Krebs was subsequently published, which has been published in many countries since 1974. They claim that Daily consumption of 7-10 apricot seeds protects the body from the development of cancer. And if cancer has already developed, then when using vitamin B17, the size of the tumor decreases, new metastases do not form, and even hopelessly ill people defeat cancer. In experiments under a microscope, it was seen that after adding vitamin B17, cancer cells were destroyed and died.

The Italian Professor Guidetti from the University Medical School of Turin, who had a report before the Conference of the International Society Against Cancer, which took place in Brazil in 1954, demonstrated the results of using Laetrile on clinical patients with cancer. He showed how Laetrile has been shown to destroy many types of tumors, including those of the neck, rectum, uterus and breast.“In many cases,” he said, “we observed a whole group of tumors that resolved very quickly.” He reported that after using Laetrile in the treatment of patients with advanced lung cancer, he could see, using X-ray, regression of tumors or metastases.

After Guidetti's speech, an American doctor announced that laetrile had been studied in the United States and found to be unsuitable for the treatment of cancer.

Dr. Guidetti replied that he was not interested in what was recognized in the United States. “I am simply informing you of what I observe in my own clinic.” (Cancer News Journal)

A World Without Cancer reveals a wealth of information about cancer research that was halted and major scientists who were arrested when they began telling others the truth about the vitamin. It contains a report of trials conducted on Amygdalin (vitamin B17, laetrile) at the renowned cancer institute, Sloan Kettering, New York, USA, and were closed.

Back in the 50s, Krebs proved that B17 in reasonable doses is harmless to people. After testing the vitamin on animals, he filled his syringe with a megadose and injected it into his vein. And he remained alive. And he lived for many more years after that.

The vitamin is harmless to body tissue for the simple reason that each B17 molecule consists of one cyanide compound, one benzene dehyde and two glucose (sugar) compounds tightly packed together. For cyanide to become dangerous, the molecule must first be “cracked open” and released, which only an enzyme called beta-glucosidase can do. This enzyme is present in the body in minimal quantities, but is almost 100 times more abundant in cancerous tumors. Consequently, cyanide is released only in the cancerous areas of the body with amazing results that are detrimental to the cancer cells because benzene dehyde is also released at the same time. It is a deadly poison in its properties, but when combined with cyanide it becomes 100 times stronger. The effect produced by these substances on cancer cells exceeds all expectations. Cancer cells die.

Excerpts from a talk given by Dr. Krebs (Jr.) at the Los Angeles Annual Cancer Conference in 1989:

Cancer is a consequence of a chronic metabolic disorder, which is already obvious today. Is not infectious disease which is caused by bacteria or viruses. It is a disease that is metabolic in nature. This is a metabolic disorder. Most metabolic disorders are based on an imbalance of vitamins and minerals in our body.

No metabolic disease in the history of man has ever been cured or prevented by anything other than factors having to do with the diet of the body. In the past we have had many devastating deadly diseases that are now virtually unknown. They were prevented and neutralized. The source of these diseases was rooted in the nutritional deficiency of the body.

For example, scurvy destroyed humanity by the thousands. A disease that could destroy an entire polar expedition or knock out 50 percent of the crusaders from the army. This disease is completely corrected by vitamin C or ascorbic acid, which introduced a complete factor into the human diet and extinguished scurvy epidemics.

You are probably well aware of the fact that Great Britain again gained dominion over all the seas when it experimentally discovered that adding lemon or other citrus juice to the diet of sailors lifted the curse of scurvy from the entire fleet. Before the inclusion of vitamin C in the diet of sailors, it was not uncommon for three-quarters of the crew to become seriously ill by the end of a voyage, and then those who did not die would mystically recover upon arrival on shore: they would have access to fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C.

In the past we also had pernicious anemia, which had a mortality rate of up to 99%. And no medical technique could cope with it. So far, researchers Dr. Murphy, Shipple and Mino have not found the cause to be nutritional deficiency. Medical institutions in 1974, were concerned that a simple dietary factor could prevent a disease whose mortality rate was almost as high as that of anemia.

But it is a scientific truth that the seeds of all common fruits (except citrus fruits) contain vitamin B17, a key anti-cancer vitamin. If we consume adequate amounts of the vitamin, either in pure form or through foods containing nitrilocides, we are protected from developing this disease, just as we were able to prevent scurvy with vitamin C and anemia with vitamin B12.

Another disease that is metabolic in nature is pellagra. At one time it spread in epidemic proportions in some parts of the world. Sir William Osler, in his book The Principles and Practice of Medicine, spoke of pellagra: “I was in the hospital of Lenoir, North Carolina, where during one winter 75 per cent of the people died from this disease. It spread like an epidemic and convinced me that beyond any doubt it was a virus.” But soon came the brilliant work of Dr. Goldberger, a surgeon at the United States Health Service, who clearly proved that the cause of pellagra is a lack of fresh greens in the diet. Thus, another deadly chronic metabolic disorder has found itself complete cure in simple nutritional factor, which consists in balanced diet. We have established that cancer is no exception to this rule.

Previously, fruits contained vitamin B17 not only in their seeds, but also in their pulp. Today, only wild fruits contain B17. The fruit we eat today is the sad result of years of cultivation for size and appearance; its pulp no longer contains B17. To meet the body's needs for this vitamin, we must eat the seeds of these fruits. In almost all cases of cancer, when B17 is taken in large doses, cancerous tumors are pulled together.

To prevent cancer, start with a small amount of seeds: 1-2 per day and go up to 7 - 10 pieces. Bones should be eaten within reasonable limits, the basic rule is to eat the fruit and its pit, but nothing more.

Try not to consume refined sugar (sugar feeds cancer cells), caffeine (very bad for the liver and kidneys), and high-grade flour (easily converted into sugar in the body). Try to eat more unprocessed foods.

Prepared based on website materials.

An excellent fruit tree that produces a healthy harvest is the apricot. The benefits of juicy fruit are double: having tasted the fruit itself, which is a pantry useful microelements, you can saturate your body with a variety of useful vitamins contained in apricot kernels - kernels. Apricot kernels, whose benefits and harms are multifaceted, will surprise you with their potential effects on the body.

The kernels are not only nutritious, but also represent the seeds of the apricot tree itself.

Nutrient content and uses of apricot kernels

Apricot seeds are rich in substances that have therapeutic effect health, produce a healing effect in many diseases, including those that are difficult to treat, and also serve to improve immunity in general.

Fruit seeds, especially varieties characterized by low-juiciness pericarp (part of the plant fruit), contain organic compounds amygdalin and hydrocyanic acid, known characteristic feature effective fight with pathogenic microorganisms that cause various diseases and which are inherently pathogenic microbes.

The use of non-bitter varieties of apricot and its kernels

Not bitter varieties fruit tree make it possible to use the seeds for food instead of almonds; the seeds are also used to create milk, indispensable both in cosmetology and pharmacology, which is obtained by squeezing the kernel of the seeds.

The kernel is also rich in oil content, called apricot oil, which in its entirety is very fatty, chemical composition The oil's structure is similar to that of peach. For medicinal purposes, the oil is used in pharmacology as a substance capable of dissolving certain medicinal components, serves as the basis for liquid ointments, and in the creation of injection solutions.

Due to their nutritional composition and fatty oil content, apricot kernels are actively used in cosmetology, as they allow the creation of dry skin care products, creams that have a rejuvenating effect and can provide nutrients to dry skin, as moisturizing face masks. Apricot kernels can contribute to the creation of effective hair care products that can take care of the condition of the hair and provide it with the necessary comprehensive care.

Reviews from users of shampoos based on this component indicate the possibility of a means of combating dandruff, as well as preventing its occurrence. Apricot oil is actively used in salons specializing in providing professional massage services, as this oil has a relaxing, soothing effect and perfectly nourishes the skin.

Bitter varieties and apricot kernels

Bitter varieties of the fruit tree are used in the production of almond milk - a drink based on apricot kernels and water; vegetable milk is used in food products. It is used instead of animal milk by vegetarians, as well as people suffering from individual intolerance or inability to digest animal milk. Almond milk is an excellent source of calcium, has a pleasant taste, and does not contain the carbohydrate lactose and the organic compound cholesterol.

In cosmetology, bitter varieties of the plant, which is the source of apricot kernels, are used in the production of carcass, which is made from burnt kernels.

In China, tree seeds were obtained wide application V folk medicine and are actively used for coughs and hiccups, as they can have a calming effect on irritants respiratory system, and thanks to the fatty oil, they perfectly lubricate inflamed areas of the oral cavity. It is recommended to use the seeds in combination with other medicinal plants for diseases of the respiratory system: bronchitis, inflammation of the trachea (tracheitis), inflammation of the mucous membranes of the larynx (laryngitis), bacterial infection whooping cough, as well as kidney diseases, including nephritis.

Universal properties of apricot kernels

Apricot kernels are an unsurpassed source of fatty oil that does not dry out during fruit ripening and storage of the seeds themselves after eating these fruits.

Apricot seed oil contains:

oleic acid is an Omega-9 fatty acid (monounsaturated), a good preventative against atherosclerosis, resists the formation and fixation of cholesterol plaques on the walls of blood vessels. An excellent component that is effective in diabetes because it relieves insulin resistance in the body, which leads to increased blood sugar levels, so consuming oleic acid also prevents the development of diabetes mellitus;
linolenic acid – polyunsaturated acid Omega-3, by its nature, is essential due to its inability to be synthesized in human body. Such acids are effective in reducing the risk coronary disease hearts, because they reduce the level blood pressure, the content of cholesterol, triglyceride fats in the body, and Omega-3 acids improve vision, stimulate brain activity, and the rheological properties of blood;
amygdalin glycoside - according to some studies, mainly by foreign scientists, the organic compound is considered effective in the fight and prevention of cancer, including malignant neoplasms, by others - it is described as a dangerous, somewhat toxic substance, in large applications which can lead to violations normal operation body. The organic compound amygdalin gives a bitter taste to the kernels of apricot kernels;
emulsin enzyme - promotes the breakdown of amygdalin into sugar, refers to protein substances;
lactase enzyme - necessary for the decomposition of the complex substance lactose disaccharide in order to avoid the occurrence of intolerance to milk sugar (lactose) contained in milk and dairy products;
hydrocyanic acid – has both positive and negative physiological effects. The advantage of the effect of hydrocyanic acid on the body is its use as a neuromodulator, an agent against pathogenic microorganisms, a regulator of the functions of the cardiovascular system, and to lower high blood pressure.

Oil obtained from apricot kernels is characterized by low acidity and low internal friction (viscosity); it is successfully used in both cosmetology and medicine.

Use in cooking

Apricot seed kernels are used in fresh, they are fried, subjected to the cooking process and are actively used in the preparation of sweets, as a filling (icing, caramel) for cakes, waffles, cookies, and in the production of dairy products. Also popular in home cooking is the preparation of compotes and various drinks with the addition of kernels.

Harmful effects of apricot seeds on the body

Every product, even one that has universal positive properties, also has contraindications for use. It is also possible that the components of apricot kernels have a negative effect on human health.

adult – no more than 40 grams of nucleoli;
children - the norm should not exceed 20 grams!

Exceeding the permissible concentration of hydrocyanic acid, as a result of the breakdown of amygdalin, can provoke severe poisoning, but such a reaction of the body occurs when the permissible norm is exceeded several times. It is also possible to suppress the central nervous system, oxygen starvation, which can be caused by hydrocyanic acid, but only in great content in blood. In order for the level of hydrocyanic acid to be exceeded, you need to consume a huge amount of apricot kernels.

During pregnancy, you should also not overuse apricot kernels, but you shouldn’t give them up at all.

Apricot kernels impress with their wide range of effects on the internal and external state of the body, their universal properties, thanks to which they are actively used in cosmetology, pharmacology, and are recommended in folk medicine, as an effective remedy against diabetes, coronary heart disease and other diseases. Are you interested in which one? The active substance amygdalin has served as a separate component in studies in the fight against cancer, and in some countries it is considered an effective treatment for dangerous illness. Therefore, neglecting the use of apricot kernels is unacceptable if you want to maintain health for a long time, but with moderate consumption.

Many people remember from childhood that under no circumstances should you eat apricot kernels, otherwise you may get poisoned! The bitter kernel contains hydrocyanic acid, which can cause serious health damage. Due to an unfounded belief instilled at a young age, we often throw away edible products that bring health invaluable benefits.

Even in ancient China they knew how healing properties Apricot seeds have. The bitter nuts were only available to the imperial families. Today you can buy seeds at the market or in stores. But is such a purchase safe?

We suggest you figure out what apricot kernels are. Benefits and harms, what is more?

Is it possible to eat apricot kernels?

Actually, this is one of the main doubts about apricot kernels that needs to be dispelled. Their use is not only acceptable, but necessary! At the same time, so that the bitter seeds do not harm the body, remember the safe daily intake - no more than 20 grams for adults (about 10 pieces), and 10 grams for children (about 5 pieces). It's all about hydrocyanic acid, which is part of the nuclei. Small doses are safe for health, and consumption of more than 40 grams of kernels will lead to serious intoxication.

It is a mistake to assume that preparations with whole apricot kernels are harmful. Temperature treatment neutralizes the effect of hydrocyanic acid, but does not completely eliminate it. You can eat any amount of apricot pulp from jam or compote; with kernels, you should not exceed the norm of 10 pieces.

Apricot kernels description and composition

Apricot kernels - for these you will have to work hard to carefully remove the contents from the dense shell, surrounded by sweet, fleshy pulp. By the way, due to the complexity of the process, Ancient China Only representatives of the imperial families ate whole nucleoli. Externally, the seeds are similar to almonds, but differ significantly in taste, and most importantly, in properties.

Apricot kernels, like most nuts, have their own special taste. But the bitter taste and anti-cancer effect are due to amygdalin, which you will learn about a little later.

How to distinguish almonds from apricot kernels

Due to the external similarity, buyers sometimes fall for the tricks of sellers and purchase apricot kernels for the price of almonds. Main differences:

Apricot kernels are smaller in size, both in length and volume;
The seeds have a rounded shape; almonds, on the contrary, have a more pronounced sharp tip;
The apricot kernel is slightly flattened on the sides. Almonds have a smooth, evenly tapering surface;

The nuts are also similar in taste. There are both varieties of apricots with sweet seeds and bitter almonds - it is better to focus on appearance. The most important difference is not the cost of the products. Overeating almonds will not lead to poisoning, but kernels can, and quite severely. Therefore, it is so important to understand what is in front of you: apricot kernels or almonds.

Chemical composition

The composition of the apricot kernel determines its benefits and harms. The seeds contain:

Vitamins A, B, PP, C, F;
Tocopherols are substances that prevent premature aging processes;
Essential oils;
Phospholipids that improve liver function;
Unsaturated and saturated acids;
Essential and non-essential amino acids
Natural pigments, including carotene;
Microelements: magnesium, iron, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium;
Vitamin B17 (amygdalin) and apricot kernels in connection with it have earned the title of “natural chemotherapy”. When the vitamin comes into contact with affected cells, cyanide and benzaldehyde are released, as a result of which the development of an oncological tumor is inhibited. In small amounts, vitamin B17 is safe for healthy cells. B17 gives the seed a bitter taste. The more bitterness, the higher the concentration of vitamin. It is found in plum, apple, and cherry kernels, bitter almonds, millet and flaxseed.

Calorie content of the product

Apricot kernels have a high calorie content - approximately 440 kcal per 100 grams. The energy value and large amount of fat do not allow the product to be called dietary. But even the fats from seeds are incredibly healthy. About 30% of the composition is allocated to oleic acid, which provides the body with energy and promotes the absorption of other fats. Linoleic acid, occupying about 11%, regulates cholesterol levels and provides correct work cardiovascular system and neutralizes the effects of free radicals.

100 grams of apricot seeds contain 45.4g fat, 25g protein, 2.8g carbohydrates, 2.6g ash, 5.4g water.

What are the benefits of apricot kernels?

The healing properties of apricot kernels have been discovered for a very long time. For example, in Ancient China, seeds and products based on them were used for treatment. skin diseases and inflammation of the musculoskeletal system.

The beneficial effect of apricot and its seeds was clearly confirmed by the people of the Hunza tribe - famous long-livers. The tribe lives in northern India, in rather harsh climatic conditions. The basis of the Hunza diet is apricot and its seeds, which serve as raw materials for the production of valuable oil. Vegetarianism and the constant presence of apricot kernels in the diet allows people to live more than 120 years!

Today, the apricot kernel is used in the production of medicinal and cosmetic preparations, and traditional medicine uses it in its healing recipes. On the body regular use apricot kernels have: anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antiseptic, antioxidant; immunomodulatory, anthelmintic, regenerating effect

The beneficial properties of the seeds will be fully manifested if they are fresh, keep an eye on the expiration date. The seeds can be consumed lightly roasted, but preferably raw.

For men

For women

Apricot kernels - source healthy fats, responsible for women Health and beauty. Unsaturated fatty acid slow down aging, restore hormonal balance, have an antioxidant effect, normalize hematopoiesis, improve the condition of the cardiovascular system, support nervous system. Oils, vitamins and minerals are in high concentrations, so it is difficult to say which organs are left “deprived” positive action seeds

Apricot kernel oil is in demand in the field of cosmetology.

The benefits of apricot kernels for diseases

As already mentioned, treatment with apricot kernels has been known for a long time. The product effectively copes with many painful conditions:

Milk extracted from apricot kernels promotes coughing and sputum removal, fights whooping cough, bronchitis and many diseases of the upper respiratory tract;
Ground and brewed apricot kernels cope with cardiac arrhythmia;
Use raw seeds on an empty stomach - excellent remedy to combat helminths.
The oil normalizes the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, eliminates bloating, prevents constipation, normalizes the functioning of the pancreas and gall bladder, and alleviates hemorrhoids;
For gastritis and ulcers, the oil carefully envelops and protects inflamed mucous membranes, minimizes pain;
The vitamins included in the composition inhibit the action of pathogenic microorganisms and stop dysbacteriosis;
The anti-inflammatory and regenerating effect of apricot kernel oil is especially noticeable in case of kidney disease (in particular, nephritis) and cirrhosis of the liver;
The oil fights skin and joint inflammation;
The rich vitamin and mineral composition eliminates vitamin deficiency, normalizes hemoglobin levels, improves hematopoiesis, nourishes the heart, and has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, hair and nails. One of the most delicious and healthy recipes, coping with vitamin deficiency - apricot kernels, ground with lemon and honey. To do this, 20 grams of seeds, lemon and zest are crushed using a blender or meat grinder and mixed with 3-4 tablespoons of honey. It is recommended to take 1 teaspoon of the mixture on an empty stomach.

Of course, in folk medicine, apricot kernels are associated with a natural cure for cancer. There are examples in folk medicine where regular consumption of apricot kernels stopped the development of oncology. There is no official confirmation of the effectiveness of treatment in scientific medicine yet.

Application of apricot kernels

Apricot kernels have found many uses, especially in medicine, cosmetology and cooking.

In medicine

Despite the lack of official confirmation of the inhibitory effect of apricot kernels on cancerous tumors, drugs and dietary supplements based on this product are increasingly appearing. Pharmacies sell ground kernels, extracts and oils of apricot kernels, vitamin B17. Such funds should be considered as prevention and support in the fight against cancer.

In cosmetology

In the 15th-16th centuries, oil extracted from apricot kernels was worth its weight in gold. Of course, now it can be purchased tens of times cheaper, but this does not reduce the unique and useful action, especially in the field of cosmetology. Apricot oil is added to shampoos, creams, scrubs, masks and lotions, and used as an independent remedy.

Transparent oil with a subtle nutty aroma nourishes the skin, maintains elasticity, eliminates fine wrinkles and creases in the skin. It promotes accelerated wound healing and minimizes skin inflammation. Despite its fat content and thickness, the oil lays on the skin in a thin, almost imperceptible layer, without interfering cutaneous respiration. Masks with apricot oil stimulate growth and strengthen weakened hair, making it smooth and silky.

In cooking

Bitter grains have found their place in cooking. To give a delicate apricot-nut flavor, ground seeds are added to baked goods, ice cream, desserts, dairy products and sweet salads. And jam with whole kernels is a real work of culinary art.

Oil, on the contrary, has not found widespread use for cooking; it is extremely rarely used for dressing salads.

Apricot kernels can be stored in shells or peeled. Usually, hard shell extends shelf life. Over time, fat oxidation occurs and the concentration of hydrocyanic acid increases significantly, so it is not recommended to store the product for more than one year. The seeds must be dried, placed in a container with a tight-fitting lid and stored in a kitchen cabinet, protected from direct sunlight.

Contraindications and harm

Paracelsus said: “Everything is poison, nothing is poisonous, and everything is medicine. Only a fraction makes a substance a poison or a medicine.” This wise saying perfectly reflects the invaluable benefits and possible harm from apricot seeds.

Firstly, you should always remember the norm - no more than 40 grams per day. It is not recommended to consume more than 1 kernel per 5 kg of human weight.

Secondly, only fresh seeds with good timing suitability. It is strictly unacceptable to eat old and rancid bones.

Thirdly, it is recommended heat treatment product (frying in a pan or drying in the oven). At temperatures above 40 degrees, amygdalin is destroyed, which means its concentration and the risk of intoxication are reduced.

Failure to follow the recommendations can lead to poisoning, which occurs approximately 5 hours after consuming the product. A person’s activity decreases and strong headache, nausea, stomach cramps and abdominal pain. Breathing becomes intermittent. In severe cases, convulsions, fainting, or acute heart failure may occur.

If you exceed the daily norm, consume a low-quality product, or when the first signs of poisoning appear, call immediately ambulance, rinse your stomach and drink an adsorbent drug.

Apricot kernels are completely contraindicated for:

Diabetes mellitus;

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