Apricot seeds: useful properties and contraindications

Apricot seeds are considered waste. Many people use this very formulation. After all, since childhood, everyone remembered that fruit kernels can not be eaten, because they contain poisonous hydrocyanic acid. But apricot kernels are an edible product that has useful properties. Ancient Chinese healers used them for preparing medicinal tinctures. They advised emperors and their families to take apricot kernels. Now this product is used in medicine, cosmetology and cooking.

How to tell the difference between almond and apricot

Almonds are fruits that grow on trees or shrubs in the subgenus Amygdalus. The plant belongs to the genus Plum. It is called a nut because of its hard rind. It grows in areas with a warm climate (the Mediterranean countries, China, Asia, the Himalayas). In Russia almonds are grown in Krasnodar Krai and on the Crimean peninsula. He comes in 2 varieties: bitter and sweet.

Sweet almonds are eaten raw or fried, and they are also used in cooking. This variety is used to make herbal milk.

Usually, bitter almonds are not eaten. It is used to produce medicines and cosmetic skin care products.

Apricot kernel is the kernel of the fruit of the same name. The fruit grows on trees in almost all countries with warm temperate climates (Russia, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Tien Shan, North Caucasus). The apricot has a color that varies from light yellow to a rich orange hue. This depends on the variety of tree. The fruit itself is juicy, soft, and sweet. The pips are a rich brown color, and the seeds are light in color.

Almonds and walnut kernels have a certain external similarity, but due to the chemical composition have different useful qualities.

Distinguishing characteristics:

1. Shape. Almonds are more elongated, convex, it is larger than an apricot kernel. It also has a flattened appearance, its tips are oblong and slightly pointed.
2. Taste. Apricot kernel has a bitter taste, not very dense. Almonds are sweet, having a dry nutty flavor.
3. Peel. It is easy to remove the seed from an apricot, because it is very soft and quickly breaks into slices. For almonds it is better to use a walnut cutter or a knife. Its skin is not stiff, but rather dense.

The best way to remember the differences is to put almond and apricot kernels side by side. Once seeing them together, a person will no longer be confused.

How many apricot kernels can you eat a day

The taste of the kernels is bitter. This is promoted by amygdalin, which is the source of the poisonous substance. Depending on the variety, its concentration varies. It is quite rare to find species with no amygdalin at all.

A small dose of acid does not cause any consequences for the human body. The usefulness of fruits and their kernels is proven scientifically, but you need to eat them correctly and in moderation. Children should not eat more than 20-25 grams. Adults can eat 5 kernels at a time - about 40-50 grams. No more than 2 meals a day are allowed.

To calculate the individual dose is simple: 1 kernel per 5 kg of weight of an adult.

When making compote or jam for the winter, you can not remove the kernels from the fruit. During heat treatment, the poisonous properties of the acid are reduced. But this is not a reason to use them in large quantities, the allowable norm - no more than 7-10 pieces per day.

Composition and calories

Apricot kernel contains many useful substances. In terms of its chemical composition it is unique. The seed contains such substances:

1. A number of vitamins A, C, F, PP and group B. It is precisely to the latter group that amygdalin (B17), which is so controversial among scientists and a source of fear among people. Some biologists argue about the beneficial properties of this vitamin, especially for people with cancer. Others are of the opinion that amygdalin contributes to the release of large amounts of cyanide, which often leads to acute cases of poisoning.
2. Essential oils. They are contained in a large volume, so the pips have a fat content of 50-60%.
3. Micro- and macronutrients: calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium.
4. Acids. Most of all the seed contains oleic acid - about 30%. It strengthens the walls of blood vessels, as well as helps to prolong youthfulness. Palmitic acid is, of course, also contained in other plant products. It has useful properties that are used in medicine and in the production of cosmetics. Linolenic acid human body does not produce on its own, and gets it by eating foods that are enriched with it. It helps to fight malignant tumors. Nicotinic acid helps to reduce cholesterol levels.

A daily allowance for an adult (50 g) contains:

• 13 g protein;
• 1.5 to 2 g carbohydrates;
• 23 g of fats;
• 1.5-2 g of saturated fatty acids;
• 6 mg of macronutrients;
• 20 mg of unsaturated fatty acids;
• 2 mg of PP vitamins;
• 3 mg of iron.

Consumption of apricot kernels by people suffering from obesity or following a diet is not recommended because the caloric content of the product is quite high: 470 calories per 100 grams.

What are the benefits of apricot seeds

The product is rich in vegetable oils, so it is very nutritious. Apricot stones are a good addition to the basic diet of professional athletes. Doctors recommend eating them for people with poor appetite, as well as those suffering from anorexia.

For men

Apricot kernels have a beneficial effect on male strength. This was determined by the ancient healers. On the advice of the court healers, the emperors of ancient China included them in the daily ration. Bones are especially useful during the period of planning children.

The fats, proteins in the product contribute to a quick recovery and weight gain. This is very important for men who are into bodybuilding, weightlifting and hard physical labor.

For women

The complex of beneficial substances has a beneficial effect on the female body, especially during hormonal disorders and nervous disorders. They normalize blood circulation, preventing the formation of varicose veins. The high content of oleic acid fights the aging process, so it is contained in various cosmetics. Also for the fairer sex of mankind is useful oil.

Pregnancy

Vitamins and minerals, which are in natural products, are more quickly absorbed by the body. Pregnant women need an additional source of vitamins, and in the apricot seed, in addition to a large set of useful substances, contains calcium, phosphorus and folic acid. It is necessary for the future child for full development. Iron and copper prevent anemia by increasing hemoglobin. These elements are contained in a fairly large amount.

But pregnant women are better to reduce the daily dose for adults by half and do not eat the product more than once a week.

When breastfeeding

In the diet of a nursing mother the presence of apricots is mandatory, but in small doses. The fruit can cause bloating and diarrhea in the baby. It is better to refuse from the fruit kernels at all, as they can have a negative impact on the development of the child's nervous system.

For children

The presence of carotene in the composition contributes to the normalization of vision and prevents the occurrence of eye diseases. This is especially true for teenagers. Apricot kernels have expectorant properties, so in the period of illness they make infusions for children.

It is not recommended to often use the product in children. The main thing is to adhere to acceptable norms and not to give it to kids under the age of 3-4 years.

When losing weight

For people on a diet, it is an indispensable product in the diet. After all, the fats, proteins, carbohydrates contained here in sufficient quantities can make up for the missing balance. In this case, the fats are more quickly absorbed and broken down in the body, as it is a natural product. Apricot seeds can be added to yogurt, muesli, milk porridge. But you should not forget about the high caloric content of the product, so you should not eat more than 5-7 pieces per day.

Seeds can be consumed in fried or raw form. The second option is more effective. But the most important thing is that they should be fresh.

Urbech from apricot kernels: benefits and harms

Useful, also very tasty paste with the addition of apricot kernels, which has a creamy taste, is called Urbech. This dish is considered by Dagestanis as a national dish. The composition usually includes flax seeds, sunflower seeds, apricot kernels, butter and honey. All of these components are useful in their own way, and in combination represent a unique set of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and vitamins.

Urbech can be bought ready-made in a store or cooked yourself, but it is a long and time-consuming process. All the kernels must be thoroughly grinded to a homogeneous mass.

Urbech can be used for medicinal purposes, as it:

1. Especially good for colds - it is an excellent expectorant, in addition, it increases immunity.
2. Removes toxins and normalizes metabolism.
3. Improves bowel function, getting rid of bloating and constipation.
4. Normalizes heart function, eliminates nervous disorders.
5. Prevents the formation of cancer cells.

This product can be used not only during illness, but also as a dessert or sweet sauce. You can put it on toast. This sandwich would be a great addition to a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast. You can also dip fresh pieces of fruit into it. It is better to use sweet and sour fruits, so that the taste is not sugary.

Urbech is an indispensable product for raw eaters and vegetarians. It adds to the body lack of useful elements, including proteins and fats. It is recommended to eat it when you have a lot of physical activity.

But you have to be careful not to abuse it. Overeating can cause nausea, dizziness, intestinal disorders. To avoid such symptoms, you should observe the norm: adults - no more than 1 tablespoon a day, children - a maximum of 1 teaspoon. This product is contraindicated for people prone to allergies, because it contains honey. It is not recommended to eat it to people who are overweight or sitting on a diet, since the product is very caloric.

Apricot kernel oil: properties and uses

In ancient times, the useful qualities of apricot kernel oil were already known. The clever Chinese were the first to find its medicinal and cosmetic uses. In European countries about miraculous means of this product became known about two thousand years ago.

It became widespread as early as the 17th century. At that time, the oil was rare and quite expensive. It was used to treat ulcers, various tumors and even instead of perfume. It has a delicate, pleasant smell with hints of nutty aroma.

Apricot trees grow all over the world, but the oil from the kernels of its fruits still has a great price, as it is a labor-intensive and costly process. The product is obtained by cold pressing of the seeds. Thanks to this oil retains all the unique qualities.

The basis are fatty acids: oleic contains 55-60% and linolenic 25-30%. They have the ability to protect the body from toxic effects from the outside. B vitamins have a favorable effect on the skin, improving its color. Vitamin A normalizes the sebaceous glands. It is very useful for acne in teenagers.

Apricot kernel oil can be used as a sunscreen due to the vitamin F it contains. It has a soothing effect on the body in case of redness and peeling, as well as seborrhea. The oil is the leader in the amount of this useful element.

In its pure form, the product is liquid, yellowish in color, flowing and transparent.

It is often used in cosmetology:

1. The increased content of fatty acids, combined with a vitamin complex, salts of magnesium, zinc and potassium promotes rapid absorption into the skin.
2. The oil has warming properties and therefore it is used in various body wraps and anti-cellulite creams.
3. In its pure form it is used for massages. It is quickly absorbed into the skin and leaves no residue, smells pleasant.
4. Moisturizing and rejuvenating properties of the oil are used to prepare creams, face masks. Such products contribute to effective skin tightening and remove wrinkles from the face.
5. It acts as one of the components of shampoos from dandruff, helps eliminate seborrhea and exfoliate keratinized cells of the head. When it is used, blood circulation is restored and the hair becomes lively and shiny.

In medicine, the product often acts as a component in ointments for burns, abrasions, cuts, is present in creams from cracked feet, is used as a solvent for some medicines.

Apricot kernel oil occupies a leading position among nourishing and moisturizing agents.

In cooking it is used as a flavoring for liqueurs, desserts and salads. Italian chefs love to add it to prepared dishes.

Apricot kernels in medicine

The healing properties of apricot kernels were first discovered by ancient Tibetan healers. Then miraculous qualities of this product began to be used everywhere. Now the benefits and harms of apricot kernels are well studied, so their healing properties have found use in folk medicine.

For the treatment of cancer

So far, scientists have not officially confirmed the detrimental effect on cancer cells of apricot kernels, but some recommend patients to take this product as an additive to the main method of treatment.

One apricot kernel should be eaten in the morning before meals. To increase the effectiveness, it is necessary to exclude sugar and coffee from the diet. The period of treatment is determined by the doctor.

For colds accompanied by a cough.

Indigredients:

• Apricot kernels - 20 g.
• Sporewort bird (grass-herb) - 10 g.
• Horsetail - 10 g.
• Thyme - 10 g.
• Ledum shoot - 10 g.
• Water - 200 ml.
• Celandine - 10 g.

Grind apricot kernels in a mortar. You can use a coffee grinder or blender. Mix with all the herbs and put to boil (you can just pour boiling water). Once the mixture comes to a boil, take it off the stove. Leave it on the table for 30-40 minutes. Strain. Take before eating 3 times a day for 50 ml.

For conjunctivitis.

Ingredients:

• Apricot seeds - 10 g.
• Water - 100 ml.

Pound the seeds as finely as possible, pour boiling water. Leave for 4-5 hours. Strain and apply lotions to the eyes 4-5 times a day.

From bronchitis and pneumonia.

Indigredients:

• Apricot seeds - 125 g.
• Water - 250 ml.
• Walnut - 125 gr.
• Honey - 250 ml.

Roast the kernels of walnuts and apricots in a dry pan (2-3 minutes). Finely crush. Put in a pot, pour water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cook until the water boils away. Then add honey, stir everything and keep on the heat for 2 minutes. Take before eating in the morning and evening, ½ teaspoon. Keep the mass in the refrigerator.

To boost the immune system

Nut-fruit mixture includes the following ingredients:

• Apricots - 100 g.
• Dried figs - 100 gr.
• Black raisins - 100 gr.
• Lemon - 1 piece.
• Pitted prunes - 100 gr.
• Apricot kernels - 3 pcs.
• Walnut kernels - 100 gr.
• Honey - 100 ml.

Grind all ingredients in a blender. Pour honey and let stand for 1 hour. Take in the morning, before a meal, 1 teaspoon. Store in the refrigerator.

For the relief of joint pain

100 grams of crushed apricot kernels, pour 200 grams of vodka. You can use rubbing alcohol, but diluted with water: 150 g of alcohol in 50 ml of water. Cover the container with a kitchen napkin or a piece of cloth. Tincture should stand for 2-2.5 weeks. Rub the joints once a day. Then wrap with a linen napkin and wear a clean woolen scarf. Walk like this for not more than 30 minutes.

Apricot kernels are part of some dietary supplements, which are used as an aid in cardiovascular diseases, constipation, bloating.

Apricot kernel use in cosmetology

Apricot kernels have unique properties that prolong not only the youth of the body, but also the skin of the face, hands and body. Cosmetic manufacturers add them to the scrubs for all parts of the body. They cope well with the removal of keratinized cells.

The face requires more gentle cleansing, so finely crushed seeds are used in cleansers. Means are suitable for cleaning combined and oily skin types. Medium-sized kernel particles are used in body scrubs. In the composition of means for the feet are particles of coarse kernels. Such scrubs remove corns, coarse skin from the heels. After use, the feet become gentle and soft.

You can prepare natural masks and creams from apricot kernels or oil at home.

Scrub to improve the complexion

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp. apricot pulp.
• 1 tbsp. ground apricot kernels.

Pips pre-grind with a blender or grinder. You can prepare the raw material for 2 portions, but no more, since over time it loses its useful qualities. Mash the apricots with a spoon or use a blender. Mix the ingredients. Apply to the face with massaging movements, lightly rubbing the scrub. Allow the cleanser to remain on the skin for 7-10 minutes and then rinse off.

Cleanser for oily skin

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. ground apricot kernels.
• 1 tbsp. oat flour.
• 1 tsp. honey.
• Water.
• Milk.

Grind apricot kernels. Pour water and let stand for 5-15 minutes. Drain the water, add oat flour. Stir with a spoon, gradually pouring milk. It will not be much: the mixture should become a thick mass. Then put the honey. Apply to the face with circular massaging movements. Leave on for 3-5 minutes and rinse off with lukewarm water.

Nail firming treatment

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. apricot kernel oil.
• 2 tbsp. jojoba oil.
• 2 tbsp. wheat germ oil.

Rub in daily for a week. Then take a 14-20 day break and repeat the course. Store in a dark place, in a glass jar with a lid.

Mask for problem and oily skin

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. apricot kernel oil.
• 2 drops of lavender essential oil.
• 3 drops of lemon juice.
• 2 drops of tea tree oil.

Mix the ingredients and apply to face, avoiding the eye area. Wash the face without rinsing it off.

Rejuvenating cleanser for the décolleté and face area.

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp. apricot pulp.
• 1 tsp. crushed seeds.
• 3 tbsp. papaya pulp.

Mix all ingredients. Clean face and neck before application. Apply to the skin and leave for 5-10 minutes. Rinse, cream after this scrub is better not to use.

Apricot kernels in cooking

The Hoosa people of India eat a vegetarian diet. They eat apricots as a compulsory part of their daily diet. The tribe is recognized as the longest-living people on the planet, the life span of 115-120 years. According to researchers, apricot kernels play not the least role in this. But this product is eaten not only in the raw form.

Cooks and chefs around the world use apricots fresh or dried for cooking, but they do not throw away the kernels. They, too, have found a use. They serve as a decoration of various desserts, cakes. They are also added to the cream for cake, waffles and various syrups.

In the food industry, apricot kernels are used as a flavor enhancer in ice cream, yogurts, and cookies.

They serve as an additive for making various delicacies at home as well. Apricot jam with seeds or various compotes have even more flavor and useful properties. When heat treating the kernels do not lose their useful qualities.

Harms and contraindications

Apricot kernels contain a dangerous poisonous substance that can have a detrimental effect on the whole body. Therefore, before using it, you should carefully study the permissible daily doses and all contraindications.

For reinsurance, you can roast the product or dry it in the oven. All the vitamin and mineral complex will remain, but the harmful properties of B17 (hydrocyanic acid) will decrease.

The irreparable harm to health can be caused by kernels that have been stored over the prescribed period, because over time the concentration of the harmful substance in them increases.

The use of apricot kernels is contraindicated for people with chronic diseases, as well:

• Individual intolerance to the product;
• liver disease, especially during exacerbations;
• Gastric and duodenal ulcers;
• Endocrine system problems;
• Diabetes mellitus.

Can you be poisoned by apricot kernels?

Even the safest foodstuff can be poisoned, and apricot seeds all the more so. Trouble can happen if a person ate the kernels that are past their expiration date or if he exceeded several times the daily allowance. Fresh apricot kernels are dry and have the same uniform color of light brown shade and aroma similar to almonds.

The first symptoms of poisoning appear rather quickly:

• General weakness accompanied by aching muscles and joints;
• stuffy throat, rapid breathing;
• abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence;
• nausea and vomiting;
• severe dizziness;
• sudden panic fear.

External signs of hydrocyanic acid poisoning:

• irregular pulse;
• a bright red color of the mucosa;
• cramps that quickly spread throughout the body;
• intermittent breathing (eventually it becomes difficult to breathe at all).

If you have these symptoms, you need to call an ambulance immediately. Be sure to tell the doctors about eating apricot kernels.

How to store apricot kernels

Kernels can be stored in a hard shell or by removing it beforehand. If the product is a bit humid you should dry it, because mold will quickly form on the damp kernels. In this case you should throw them away.

Kernels should be stored in a glass container with a tightly closed lid. You can use a cloth bag with ties. The second method is even better, since the kernels will not get soggy.

The jar or bag should be kept in a dry place, where no sunlight penetrates. Usually this is a kitchen cupboard. The main thing is that it should not be located above the stove.

If stored properly, the shelf life of peeled apricot kernels is 1 year.

Interesting facts about apricots

1. In Europeans the apricot was called an Armenian apple for a long time, since it was brought from Armenia.
2. Apricot has its own personal holiday. Americans celebrate Apricot Day on January 9 as a national holiday.
3. There are more than 20 varieties of this crop in the world. The most unusual are black apricots. They are obtained by breeders by crossing apricot seedlings and alycha.
4. In the Middle Ages, apricot was considered one of the strongest aphrodisiacs.
5. Byzantine court healers recommended this juicy fruit to their rulers and their wives. Emperors took them to enhance male potency, and women took them to prolong their youth. Apricot juice was part of the daily diet of the imperial family.
6. The apricot is a unique fruit. The fruit itself, seeds, leaves and even bark of the tree have healing and useful properties.
7. When Charles I first tasted apricots, he was delighted. He ordered all merchants to deliver the fruit only to the royal palace. It was inaccessible to ordinary people, as the king vetoed the sale.
8. The first information about apricots appeared in the historical chronicles about Moscow in 1654. That year, 19 trees were brought to Izmailovsky Park from different parts of the country, 2 of them were apricot trees.

Photo of apricot kernels