Some cell studies suggest apricot seed properties may have anticancer effects. However, apricot seed products may have high levels of amygdalin, a toxic compound that can cause symptoms of cyanide poisoning.

The apricot kernel is a small seed inside the center of an apricot stone. It contains a compound called amygdalin or laetrile, which some people considered a potential cancer remedy in the 1800s and 1900s.

Although some cell and animal studies suggest that amygdalin has anticancer properties, human clinical trials are rare and don’t show the same benefits.

Amygdalin can cause symptoms of cyanide poisoning, including liver and nerve damage, fever, coma, and death.

Read on to learn more about apricot seeds as a cancer remedy, including potential benefits and risks.

According to a 2022 article, the potential anticancer compound in apricot seeds is hydrogen cyanide, which comes from amygdalin. Amygdalin is also present in various plants and other fruit pits.

Laetrile is the patented drug name for amygdalin. It’s also called vitamin B17, but the American Institute of Nutrition Vitamins does not approve it as a vitamin.

The first use of laetrile in cancer treatment in the United States was in the 1920s. In Russia, people began using it in cancer treatment in 1845.

According to a 2023 review, although some research supports amygdalin’s potential anticancer effects, there aren’t enough credible scientific studies, including studies on animals and clinical trials involving humans, to prove it.

The authors of the review emphasize that more research and clinical trials are necessary to ensure amygdalin’s safety before anyone uses it as a remedy for cancer.

Despite this lack of scientific evidence, amygdalin-endorsing websites may rely on anecdotal claims from people with cancer. But, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve amygdalin to treat cancer or any other medical condition.

According to the 2023 review, studies on cells outside of living organisms (in vitro) suggest that amygdalin’s anticancer activities may involve its ability to affect the cell cycle and immune response. It may also encourage cell death and damage.

In vitro research in the review explored amygdalin’s potential effects on the following types of cancer:

However, studies on animals and clinical trials involving people are limited. The results of current studies are also inconsistent. These studies and trials are necessary, as researchers can’t assume the effects of amygdalin on cells outside of living organisms will be the same as on humans.

A major concern about using amygdalin to combat cancer in humans is that amygdalin metabolites can turn into hydrocyanic acid, which can build up and have toxic effects.

The review states that further research is necessary to find a nontoxic form of amygdalin and learn if professionals could use it alongside other cancer treatments, like chemotherapy.

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), manufacturers make laetrile in Mexico using crushed apricot pits. The FDA does not regulate it, and the purity and contents of each batch may vary.

A buildup of hydrocyanic acid from amygdalin can cause toxicity in humans. The NCI lists the following potential side effects from laetrile:

  • headache
  • dizziness
  • nausea and vomiting
  • droopy upper eyelid
  • blue or gray skin from a lack of oxygen in the blood (this may be more visible on palms, soles of feet, lips, or gums in those with darker skin)
  • liver damage
  • nerve damage, which may affect your ability to walk
  • fever
  • confusion
  • coma
  • death

If you experience any side effects after eating apricot seeds or laetrile, get emergency help. Laetrile side effects may be worse when you:

  • take it by mouth
  • eat certain fruits and vegetables, like celery, carrots, or bean sprouts
  • eat raw almonds or crushed fruit pits
  • take high amounts of vitamin C

The FDA Poisonous Plant Database notes the link between apricot kernels and cyanide poisoning. They state that accidentally eating the occasional apricot pit will not typically hurt you, but eating large amounts can lead to cyanide poisoning symptoms.

In May 2024, the FDA issued a warning about amygdalin in certain apricot seed products. They’ve advised that consumers:

  • stop using and dispose of the products
  • contact a healthcare professional if you’ve already consumed the products, even if it wasn’t recent
  • seek emergency help if you experience any side effects from these products

They’re continuing their investigation into these products.

The FDA does not approve of laetrile as a form of cancer treatment or a treatment for any other medical condition.

According to a 2022 review, apricot kernels contain various nutrients, including:

  • protein
  • fiber
  • carbohydrates
  • flavonoids

The review suggests apricot kernels may have antioxidant potential and may reduce the risk of free radicals in your body.

However, the 2023 review suggests that amygdalin’s risks may outweigh any benefits.

If you’re thinking about adding apricot seeds to your diet, you should speak with a healthcare professional first. They can discuss the recent research, any potential risks, and safety precautions to take.

Although some cell studies suggest that amygdalin, a compound from apricot seeds, may have some anticancer properties, it can be toxic to humans.

The FDA does not approve amygdalin or apricot seeds as a cancer treatment. Eating large amounts of apricot seeds may lead to symptoms of cyanide poisoning, which can be fatal.

Talk with your doctor before trying any alternative therapies for cancer treatment. A licensed nutritionist may also be able to make dietary recommendations to complement your treatment.