An apricot kernel is the apricot seed located within the fruit endocarp, which forms a hard shell around the seed called the pyrena (stone or pit).[1][2]
The kernel contains amygdalin, a poisonous compound, in concentrations that vary between cultivars. Together with the related synthetic compound laetrile, amygdalin has been marketed as an alternative cancer treatment. However, studies have found the compounds to be ineffective for treating cancer.[3]
- ^ Considine, Douglas M. (6 December 2012). Foods and Food Production Encyclopedia. Springer Science & Business Media. p. 776. ISBN 978-1-4684-8511-0.
- ^ Solomon, Eldra; Berg, Linda; Martin, Diana W. (16 February 2004). Biology. Cengage Learning. p. 679. ISBN 1-111-79434-0.
- ^ Milazzo S, Horneber M (2015). "Laetrile treatment for cancer". Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (Systematic review). 2018 (4): CD005476. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD005476.pub4. PMC 6513327. PMID 25918920.