Apricot kernel refers to the seed of the fruit of Prunus armeniaca, more commonly known as the apricot tree. Because the seed is encased in an exceptionally hard shell, it is often called a 'stone.'
Raw Apricot seed kernels are one of nature's highest sources of amygdalin sometimes referred to as Vitamin B-17 or Laetrile (laevomandelonitrile). It is contained in hundreds of foods, but those particularly rich in Amygdalin have largely disappeared from our Western diet.
Apricot seed kernels do contain cyanide, but this is also found in Vitamin B12, almonds, strawberries, wild blackberries, wild crabapples, elderberries, apple seeds, cherry seeds, nectarine seeds, peach seeds, pear seeds, plum seeds, prune seeds, bamboo, alfalfa, eucalyptus and a host of other foods we consume. The cyanide is locked into the Amygdalin, so it is chemically inert and completely harmless to normal cells. In the same way, common salt (sodium chloride) is safe to eat despite containing the poison chlorine. Amygdalin is actually less toxic than salt and sugar.
Amygdalin was first extracted and named over 100 years ago and has been in pharmacological dictionaries since that time as being non-toxic. The assertion that taking Apricot Kernels poses a health risk is simple ignorance by pharmaceutical companies. Apricot Kernels are a staple part of the diet for many peoples, and thousands of others all over the world choose to take Apricot Kernels for the health benefits.
The Hunza people in Pakistan who live healthy productive lives well into their 100s are renowned for being some of the healthiest peoples in the world. Of course, one of the key factors is the mineral rich water they drink and their diet. One of their favorite foods and an important part of the Hunza people's diet is Apricots. They are eaten fresh in the summer and dried for the winter. The kernels are removed, ground and roasted; the oil is used for cooking, dressings and as a facial lotion. Apricot Kernel oil is healthful in tightening the skin. On average, The Hunzas eat between 50 to 75 milligrams of Vitamin B17 a day but in the Western World, most wouldn't consume this amount in a year!
Alternative health practitioners often use apricot seeds for respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, coughing and wheezing.
Apricot seed kernel powder can be taken internally for nutritional support and also works wonderfully as a mild exfoliating scrub for the skin.
Some possible benefits of our Raw Apricot Seed Kernel Powder may include:
● Boosting the immune system
● Relieving arthritis pain
● Excellent natural source of vitamin B-17
● Strengthening our ability to resist infections like colds & flu
● Lowering blood pressure
● Reducing respiratory issues such as bronchitis, asthma, emphysema, coughing & wheezing
● Improving general health
Do not use apricot kernel preparations during pregnancy or to self-treat any condition without checking with your physician.
Suggested Use: Mix 1/2 teaspoon with juice, yogurt or add to your favorite smoothie.
Botanical Name: Prunus armeniaca
Other Names: Armenian plum
Origin: USA
Z Natural Foods strives to offer the highest quality organically grown, raw, vegan, gluten free, non-GMO products available and exclusively uses low temperature drying techniques to preserve all the vital enzymes and nutrients. Our raw Apricot Kernel powder passes our strict quality assurance which includes testing for botanical identity, heavy metals, chemicals and microbiological contaminants. ZNaturalFoods.com offers raw Apricot Seed Kernel powder packaged in airtight stand-up, resealable foil pouches for optimum freshness. Once opened, just push the air out of the pouch before resealing it in order to preserve maximum potency. Keep your Apricot Kernel powder in a cool, dark, dry place.
