Apricot kernel seed is rich in Vitamin A, fiber, linolenic acid, oil, phenolic acids and flavonoids. These compounds are complex chemical compounds with diverse biological effects. Linolenic acid plays a role in brain function and healthy growth, it also helps maintain healthy bones and regulates metabolism. It is also helpful in treating skin disorders. In addition to its edible and cosmetic uses, some tribespeople living in the North-West Himalayas use wild apricots for nutritional and medicinal purposes.

Good For Cardiovascular System

Apricot kernels also contain Amygdalin, a phenol that has anti-inflammatory effects. Amygdalin is also beneficial for the cardiovascular system. Recent studies have found that almond extract benefits cardiovascular disease. In a six-week randomized controlled trial at King’s College London, participants in two groups ate almond products or a carbohydrate diet of comparable calories. The researchers analyzed cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health measures in both groups and found that those who ate almonds had improved endothelial function and LDL cholesterol levels. Substituting almonds for snacks reduced calorie intake by 20 percent, potentially reducing relative cardiovascular disease risk by 32 percent.

The study adds to another finding, published in the European Journal of Nutrition, that almond eaters had significantly lower body weight/body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and fat content than those on a complex carbohydrate diet. In addition, those who regularly ate almonds had a 2.1cm reduction in waist circumference and a 0.8 kg/m2 reduction in body mass index. As a food recommended by the World Health Organization, almonds are rich in various nutrients, which can help regulate blood pressure, reduce blood lipids, improve metabolism and prevent chronic diseases.

Other Benefits 

  • Anti-cancer Effect
    Studies have shown that this phenol inhibits colon cancer. Noting there are no documented clinical studies that support the use of apricot kernel extracts for cancer treatment.
  • Lower cholesterol
    Almonds are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, which help lower levels of “bad cholesterol” and are good for heart health. Studies have shown that eating almonds can help regulate cholesterol levels. Choosing almonds as a snack is an easy way to prevent metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.
  • Ease constipation
    The rich oil of almonds can help digestion and relieve constipation symptoms, which is a great benefit for the elderly with chronic constipation.
  • Lower blood sugar
    According to a study published in the British journal Metabolism, eating five almonds (about 28 grams) before a high-starch meal can reduce blood sugar levels by 30 percent in people with type 2 diabetes and by 7 percent in healthy people. In addition, patients with type 2 diabetes, who tend to have high blood sugar after waking up in the morning, have lower blood sugar levels after meals if their diet contains almonds.
  • Relieve headaches
    Almonds contain salicin, which acts as an “analgesic” and is also found in over-the-counter pain relievers. A small amount of almonds can help relieve tension headaches.
  • Good For Skin

Apricot kernel oil has anti-inflammatory properties and promotes the skin to be soft and supple. It acts as an exfoliant, and the oil is also a moisturizer and helps balance the skin’s texture and appearance. The oil penetrates the protective skin layer and has a beneficial fatty acid profile. It contains omegas like oleic and linoleic acid, which have been used to benefit the skin barrier for centuries. Vitamin A is another beneficial component of the apricot kernel oil. In addition to helping promote skin hydration, apricot kernel oil helps the immune system perform properly. Despite this, while apricot kernels are not considered safe for consumption, their oil is often used in cosmetics, medicine, and biodiesel. However, this natural oil must be ingested in certain quantities and for a longer period of time before the benefits can be seen. If applied directly to the skin, the apricot kernel oil will be absorbed more quickly.

Although apricot kernels are used as natural medicines, there are still several risks associated with using them. Taking too much can cause heart problems or even death. The dosage should be appropriate for the patient’s condition. It should never be consumed in high doses. It may also cause toxicity. laetrile is associated with cyanide toxicity and is not recommended for use in pregnant women and nursing mothers