- 5 November, 2018
- Blanks
- Irina Kotova
Not all apricot lovers know that the seeds from this fruit are also allowed to be eaten, especially since they are a nutritious and healthy product. Therefore, do not underestimate them and throw them in the trash can.
Apricot kernels are rich in vitamins, which has a beneficial effect on health. The benefits of peeled apricot kernels were discovered several centuries ago, where they were used as food and medicinal raw materials. Many people wonder what are the benefits of apricot pits? This is what this article is about.
The benefits of apricot kernels
Like other nuts, apricot kernels are, above all, a rich energy product, which contains a lot of healthy fats and proteins. Also, this product contains phosphorus, magnesium and potassium in small amounts, which has a beneficial effect on the general brain and nervous activity, internal organs and the endocrine system. The circulatory system is strengthened and hemoglobin is normalized due to iron, which is present in apricot pits.
The unrefined oil also contains ascorbic acid, B vitamins, provitamin A and tocopherols.
Depending on the processing and application methods, this product has the following effects:
- anti-aging;
- antiseptic;
- antiparasitic;
- anti-cancer;
- regenerating;
- immunomodulatory;
- antioxidant;
- anti-inflammatory.
Scientific studies of the composition have shown that the nuclei contain vitamin B17, which is distinguished by its high proportion of cyanide. It also turned out that this product is considered potentially poisonous, but in moderation it promotes the destruction of cancer cells without injuring health.
It is believed that the nuclei of this fetus help fight the tumor. Many scientists are inclined to this conclusion, but, despite this, there are no official statements on this matter. In this product, in addition to vitamin B17, experts have identified a substance called amygdalin, which is an effective agent in oncology. Drugs with these additives are used in chemotherapy.
Among other things, moderate consumption of apricot kernels has a beneficial effect on the body in the following diseases: anemia, cirrhosis of the liver, kidney disease and digestive disorders.
Apricot kernels from cancer
Dr. Krebs fully proved back in the 50s that vitamin B17 does no harm to humans. At first, he tried this vitamin only on animals, but after successful tests, he injected himself with a huge dose of Vitamin B17. Dr. Krebs Died in 1996 (lived 96 years).
Why is vitamin B17 harmless? Because each molecule of this vitamin consists of only 1 cyanide compound, as well as 1 benzaldehyde and 2 glucose compounds, which are compactly and tightly packed together. In order for cyanide to become dangerous, it is necessary at the beginning to "open" the molecule, thereby releasing it from there, and this can only be done by an enzyme called beta-glucosidase.
This enzyme is found in the body of every person in extremely small quantities, but it is 100 times more in cancerous tumors.Since cyanide is released exclusively in cancerous areas of the body, it is even amazing how destructive this effect is for all cancer cells. All cancer cells die.
About the composition
Apricot kernels contain minerals, organic and fatty acids. Due to this, such oil is considered high-calorie. These substances help to improve the functioning of internal organs and normalize metabolism. Nutritional value per 100 grams is 520 kcal.
The following components are a part of apricot kernels:
- fats - 45.4 g;
- proteins - 25 g;
- water - 5.4 g;
- carbohydrates - 2.8 g;
- ash substances - 2.6 g;
- potassium - 802 mg;
- phosphorus - 461 mg;
- magnesium - 196 mg;
- calcium - 93 mg;
- sodium - 90 mg;
- iron - 7 mg.
About 29% of the composition is occupied by oleic acid, which promotes the absorption of lipids, and is also part of the basic energy sources. Oleic acid helps reduce the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and obesity. The beneficial properties of acid slow down the aging process, improve mood and prevent cancer.
About 11% of the composition is linoleic acid. It helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, is responsible for proper heart function, and also has an antioxidant effect.
In addition to linoleic and oleic acids, this product contains the following types of fatty acids:
- Stearic acid is used in vegetable oils, and is also used in cosmetology and food production. Cosmetologists have proven that the properties of this acid have a positive effect on human skin, therefore it is stearic acid that can be found in various soaps, creams and face masks.
- Myristic acid has an antibacterial effect, improves the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases.
- Palmitic acid is a major component of breast milk, which aids in the absorption of calcium and improves the baby's digestion. Also, this acid is widely known among the cosmetic industry. On its basis, anti-aging creams are made that promote the regeneration of skin tissues.
Useful properties of the product
The product has an antiseptic effect. The enzymes contained in the bones are able to cleanse the body even of some types of worms. The product has a beneficial effect on the functionality of the heart and blood vessels. Eating seeds every day will protect your cardiovascular system and help keep your risk of disease to a minimum.
Beneficial properties are concentrated both in raw and soaked or thermally processed seeds. The daily norm for an adult is 20-50 grams.
The component will help to gain the missing weight due to the high content of vegetable oil. It is perfectly absorbed by the human body, promotes long-term saturation, the formation of energy potential and a set of both fat and muscle mass.
Fruit kernels have been used in medicine since ancient times. In ancient China, they were used to treat skin and joint pathologies. The cost of the product was equated to the price of jewelry. The process of squeezing oil took an enormous amount of time and effort, since resources were limited. Procedures using apricot kernels and oils from them were available only to members of the imperial family and those close to the emperor.
Today the product is used in the food industry, added to creams / serums and other care products for the face, body, hair and nails. Abrasive scrubs and mascara are made from crushed apricot kernels, and massages and wraps are made with the help of oil.
How to take apricot pits?
Apricot kernels are considered an amateur to taste, as they have a slight bitter taste.Speaking about how many apricot kernels can be used, it is worth noting that this calculation is made individually.
For example, it is advisable for children not to consume more than two apricot kernels per day. As for the use of seeds during pregnancy, doctors advise sticking to the child's portion - no more than two pieces a day.
According to reviews about the benefits and dangers of apricot kernels, the use of this product from compote is allowed, but in limited quantities. Although potentially hazardous substances are destroyed after heat treatment, you should limit yourself to ten bones a day to avoid feeling unwell.
Daily rate
Nutritionists advise to eat 20-40 g of kernels per day. It is recommended to start with 1-2 pieces and then, if the body reacts normally, gradually increase the dosage. The taste of the stone depends on its composition. Bitterness speaks of the presence of a large amount of amygdalin, during the decomposition of which hydrocyanic acid is formed. It is better not to use such kernels.
Attention! The high temperature only partially neutralizes toxic substances, therefore, when eating bones that have undergone heat treatment, the dosage must also be observed.
If you eat more than 40 g of kernels per day, it can end up in intoxication. It develops slowly. Severe symptoms occur within 1-4 hours. It is accompanied by disorientation in space, nausea, weakness. In case of poisoning, you need to induce vomiting, and then take activated charcoal at the rate of 1 tablet per 10 kg of weight. After that, a doctor's consultation is required.
How to choose the right apricot pits?
In order for the nucleoli to benefit the body, it is necessary to focus on the correct choice of this product. The pits of a good quality apricot fruit should resemble almonds: an even, elongated shape and a brown tint. In this photo, apricot pits are perfect for these criteria. The shade can range from pale to coppery brown.
The benefits and harms of apricot kernels: reviews of doctors
Modern medical theory does not provide a detailed medicinal characterization of the apricot kernel. The pharmaceutical and chemical industries work directly with the oil of this product, but they have identified the benefits and harms of apricot kernels. Next, let's look at how to use the product.
Reviews of apricot pits from doctors are advised to use the product for pathologies:
- With the help of decoctions and tinctures from this product, they fight respiratory diseases.
- The use of the nucleoli themselves and its oil help to improve the state of the cardiovascular system.
- With the use of a small amount of oil, the work of the gastrointestinal tract improves.
- Thanks to its soft and light texture, apricot kernel oil helps with gastritis and ulcers.
- It is believed that apricot pits should be used for preventive purposes, as well as in the treatment of cancer.
- Infusion of brewed seeds prevents bronchitis, dysbiosis, vitamin deficiency, nephritis and flatulence.
But, despite the large number of positive properties, there is also a negative side to this product. Apricot seeds contain hydrocyanic acid, which can harm the body. But in small doses for a healthy person, it does not pose a threat.
Reviews of apricot kernels say that there is less hydrocyanic acid in sweet kernels. Thus, if the apricot kernel tastes very bitter and has the smell of almonds, then this product should be abandoned in order to avoid poisoning. Hydrocyanic acid poisoning can be detected by the following symptoms:
- Strong headache;
- lethargy;
- convulsions;
- stomach ache;
- hard breath;
- nausea and vomiting.
With these indications, it is necessary to drink an adsorbent and see a doctor. But experts assure: apricot pits do not pose a threat to the human body when consumed no more than forty grams per day.
Economic value and use of the product
Apricot seeds were approved by the state authorities of the Soviet Union as an alternative to bitter almonds. The bones contain up to 0.17% amygdalin glucoside and up to 0.11% hydrocyanic acid. Varieties with a low-juiced pericarp are considered especially valuable.
Sweet varieties of apricot pits are eaten like any other nuts. A specific sweet vegetable milk is squeezed out of them, which can easily replace cow's milk both in taste and in structure. Each seed contains from 35 to 60% (depending on the variety) of fatty apricot oil. Its composition is very similar to peach oil, so the State Pharmacopoeia allowed its use for medicinal purposes. Apricot oil has the qualities of a solvent for a number of medicinal substances. For example, oil is excellent at dissolving camphor. The liquid component is used to prepare injection solutions, gels and ointments for the skin.
Apricot oil contains 899 kcal, 99 grams of fatty acids and 85 milligrams of tocopherol (vitamin E).
Apricot seeds and pulp are used in the cosmetic industry. The ingredient is especially popular in dry and aged skin lines. Apricot pits are added to:
- herbal scrubs;
- nourishing / moisturizing face creams;
- anti-age cosmetics;
- hair care rulers;
- gels for hands, nail plate care and cuticle strengthening oils;
- ink (created on the basis of burnt apricot seed).
The component is included in the INCI international classification, which regulates the safety and quality of industrial cosmetic products.
Almond water is prepared from the seeds of bitter plant varieties. The composition includes several varieties of nuts, apricot pits, but the predominant ingredient is almonds. The liquid has a sweet tart aftertaste, quickly quenches thirst and minimizes cravings for harmful carbonated drinks.
Chinese national medicine has been using apricot pits since ancient times. Local people believe that the seeds have a calming effect, help with hiccups and coughs. The component is combined with medications and used for therapy:
- whooping cough;
- laryngitis;
- jade;
- bronchitis;
- tracheitis.
The use of apricot kernels in alternative medicine
Reviews about the benefits and dangers of apricot kernels are different, but despite this, they are popular in alternative medicine, where they are primarily used as anti-cancer therapy. In addition, the following recipes with apricot pits are popular among the people:
- To eliminate cough, you should use a decoction based on apricot kernels, one tablespoon per day.
- Apricot milk will help boost immunity and simply improve your well-being. It is not difficult to prepare it: you will find a detailed description of the recipe in this video.
- The use of raw seeds in an amount of no more than ten pieces will help remove pests from the body.
- A tincture consisting of half a liter of vodka and one glass of seeds is perfect for rubbing your legs with wrapping. When preparing such a mass, it is necessary that two to three weeks pass for infusion.
- To cleanse the blood and strengthen the vessels you will need: fry the shells of apricot kernels, grind into powder and take one teaspoon daily on an empty stomach.
When using medicinal infusions
You can eat the seed not only raw. Apricot kernel infusions are beneficial, and there is no harm from their use.
To get rid of cramps and colds inside, use the infusion according to the following recipe.
Take:
- 10 g of grains;
- 100 ml of water.
Pound the kernels, pour boiling water over. Leave on for 3 hours. The filtered agent is taken during the day 3 times, 50 grams each. The infusion is used to treat conjunctivitis as a lotion. Also, the remedy is used externally for diseases of the skin and joints.
Chestnut tincture will help to cure sore joints.
Thermally processed apricot kernels are beneficial, and harm is observed only if the dosage is not followed.
In cosmetology
A common agent in cosmetology is apricot kernel oil. Apricot oil, which is made on the basis of seeds, has a huge number of beneficial properties for the beautiful half of humanity. The fatty acids contained in it help to maintain the elasticity of the skin, and are also responsible for the healthy appearance of the integument. This product has a positive effect not only on the skin, but also on the structure of nails and hair.
An excellent gentle and cleanser for the face is apricot pits. A homemade scrub with this ingredient helps to cleanse the skin, stimulate cell renewal, smooth the surface of the skin and improve the complexion.
To prepare a scrub, you should:
- extract the kernels from ten previously slightly dried apricot kernels;
- apricot kernels should be dried for several days and chopped;
- after which you can add a couple of drops of olive oil to such a powder and use it as a face and body scrub.
Application methods
The medicinal properties of apricot kernels appear when ingested over a period of time.
To lower blood pressure and improve heart function, it is recommended to eat 5 seeds daily for 4 weeks. The apricot kernel treatment can be repeated several times a year.
How much apricot kernels can be eaten per day depends on age, condition of the body, disease.
The optimal amount of the product for daily use for many diseases is from 5 to 8 pieces.
For problems with the gallbladder, they eat 5 to 8 pieces daily. The kernels are consumed within 2 weeks. The use of apricot kernels to improve memory - 5-10 kernels per day. The course is 14 days.
The effect of the treatment is manifested in the form of increased energy, muscle tone, improved digestion, blood circulation, and metabolism.
With diabetes, cancer, the dose is gradually increased. They do not eat all the recommended number of kernels at once, but divide it into several tricks.
In folk medicine, apricot pits for diabetes are prescribed according to the scheme for a month:
- 3 days, 3 pcs. in the morning and in the evening.
- 4 days, 5 pcs. twice a day.
- Every 4 days, the number of eaten kernels is increased by 2 pcs.
The maximum reception in the last days of the course is 12 pcs. in the morning and in the evening.
Apricot pits for cancer
Apricot pits are an essential alternative medicine for cancer treatment. The popularizer of this trend is the author of the book "A World without Cancer" E. Griffin.
The researcher writes that amygdalin concentrate isolated from apricot kernels is more effective for treatment. Griffin also recommends eating 4-5 to 6-9 apricot kernels daily.
Use in food
Apricot kernel urbech contains raw milled kernels, has all the properties of the original product. The protein content reaches 21.6%, fats - from 48 to 49%, carbohydrates - 3.1%. Calorie content - 550 kcal.
The paste is rich in minerals: potassium, calcium, iron, zinc. The product is taken orally for various types of cough, bronchitis and laryngitis are treated.
Urbech helps with constipation, has tonic, immunomodulatory effects. After eating 1 spoon of the product, hunger is not felt for several hours.
You can buy salted apricot pits or make your own:
- Boil the kernels in salted boiling water for 1 minute.
- Insist 30 minutes.
- Peel.
- Fry in a pan for 10-15 minutes.
A sign of readiness is the appearance of brown spots on the convex sides of the kernels. Serve a snack for beer.
Apricot kernel jam
To make delicious jam you will need:
- apricots -1 kg;
- apricot kernels - 100 gr;
- lemon peel - 10 gr;
- sugar - 1 kg;
- nutmeg to taste.
Cooking method:
- Wash apricots, remove the seeds from them.
- Fill the apricots with sugar in a separate container and leave for two hours.
- Cook the fruit over low heat for about thirty minutes, then remove from heat and wait until it cools down.
- Re-cook the apricots for the same amount of time with the addition of apricot kernels, citric acid and nutmeg until the syrup becomes thick with a beautiful amber color.
- After that, the finished jam should be poured into sterilized jars, sealed and stored in a cool place.
Apricot kernel cookie recipe
Cooking such delicious and healthy cookies does not require a lot of time and products. It can be created using special shapes, or simply cut into squares.
For cookies you will need:
- butter - 110 gr;
- sugar - 150 gr;
- baking powder - 2 g;
- flour - 300gr;
- apricot kernels - 100 gr;
- eggs -1 pcs;
- salt to taste.
Cooking method:
- The kernels must be chopped with a blender.
- Beat sugar with softened butter until fluffy, add egg, continuing to beat until smooth.
- Add sifted flour with baking powder to this mixture, put a pinch of salt and then knead the dough.
- The dough should be rolled out into a layer no more than 0.5 cm thick, and cut out the figures.
- We send cookies on a baking sheet, covered with parchment paper, in a preheated oven to 180 degrees for 15 minutes.
Apricot Kernel Muesli Bars
These bars are a healthy and tasty treat for both children and adults.
For cooking you will need:
- dates - 50 gr;
- sesame seeds - 30 gr;
- almonds - 50 gr;
- sunflower seeds - 50 gr;
- apricot kernels - 60 gr;
- raisins - 50 gr;
- honey - 40 gr;
- bananas - 80 gr;
- water - 50 ml.
Cooking method:
- If the dates are hard, then they should first be soaked in water for 2 hours, after which we grind them using a blender with the addition of water.
- Add pre-chopped apricot kernels and almonds to the dates.
- After thoroughly washed and dried the sesame seeds, we send them to the main mixture.
- We cut the raisins and, together with the sunflower seeds, add to the rest of the ingredients.
- Lastly, knead the banana with a fork, add it to a common bowl with honey and mix thoroughly.
- Using a tablespoon, lay out the future bars on a baking sheet, previously covered with parchment paper. This delicacy must be allowed to dry in the oven for four hours at a mark of ninety degrees. It is advisable to keep the oven door ajar during drying.
Storage
We have covered how to take apricot pits. Now let's talk about product storage. Preservation of apricot kernels is possible both in the husk and in the peeled form. But it is worth considering that the unrefined product is stored longer.
It is advisable to leave carefully dried seeds in a container with a tightly closed lid. The container can be different: wood, metal or glass. The most important criterion for selection is that it protects from dust, pests and sunlight.
It is recommended to store apricot kernels no more than a year, and an expired product will have a bitter taste.
Taking raw seeds for oncology
The benefits of raw apricot kernels are in the prevention of cancer. It is better to start with the use of 1 sunflower seeds three times a day.If there are no discomfort, the dose can be increased without exceeding 50 g per day. Prophylaxis should be carried out daily throughout the year.
How to take apricot pits for cancer: the dose needs to be increased significantly. Treatment is started with 5-10 seeds per day. They are taken throughout the day. For each person, the dose is individual, so it is very important to monitor your well-being. A little honey is added to enhance the taste.
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 pits are useful in 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.
For detailed information on whether apricot pits can beat cancer, you will learn from the video:
It may be useful for you to know that burdock root is also successfully used for cancer. Read more in this article ...
Contraindications
According to experts, eating apricot kernels in moderation will not harm the body. But it is advisable to exclude this product in the following cases:
- in case of disruption of the digestive tract;
- if there is an individual intolerance to the components;
- with diabetes;
- with chronic and acute diseases of the thyroid gland and liver;
- with instability of the endocrine system.
The benefits and harms of apricot kernels (consumer and professional reviews confirm this) are still a controversial issue. Some believe that they are hazardous to health and should not be consumed. Others, on the contrary, are sure that the benefits of apricot kernels are great, and they carry more positive properties than negative ones.