Apricot kernels: benefits and harms

Apricot kernels are considered waste. Many people use this particular wording. After all, from childhood, everyone remembered that fruit bones should not be eaten, since they contain toxic hydrocyanic acid. But apricot kernels are an edible product with beneficial properties. Ancient Chinese healers used them to prepare medicinal tinctures. They advised to take apricot kernels to emperors, their families. Now this product is used in medicine, cosmetology and cooking.

How to distinguish almonds from apricot kernel

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

Sweet is eaten raw or fried, and is also used in cooking. Vegetable milk is produced from this species.

Usually bitter almonds are not eaten. It is used for the production of medicines and cosmetic skin care products.

Apricot kernel - the core of the fruit of the same name. Fruits grow on trees in almost all countries of the world that have a warm temperate climate (Russia, Uzbekistan, Ukraine, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Tien Shan, the North Caucasus). Apricot has a color ranging from light yellow to a rich orange tint. It depends on the type of wood. The fruits themselves are juicy, soft, sweet. The bones are saturated brown, the seeds are light.

Almonds and walnut stones have a certain external similarity, but due to the chemical composition they have different beneficial qualities.

Distinctive features:

1. The form. Almonds are more elongated, convex, it is larger than an apricot kernel. It 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 with a dry nutty flavor.
3. Peel. It is easy to extract the stone from the apricot, because it is very soft and quickly breaks into slices. For almonds, it is better to use a nutcracker or knife. Its peel is not stiff, but rather dense.

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

How much apricot kernel can I eat per day?

The taste of seeds is bitter. Amygdalin, which is the source of the toxic substance, contributes to this. Depending on the variety, its concentration varies. Quite rare are species where amygdalin is absent altogether.

A small dose of acid does not cause any consequences for the human body. The benefits of fruits and their nucleoli are proved by the scientific method, however, you need to eat them correctly and in moderation.Children should not eat more than 20-25 g. Adults can eat 5 seeds at a time - this is approximately 40-50 g. No more than 2 meals are allowed per day.

Calculating an individual dose is simple: for 5 kg of adult mass - 1 bone.

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

Composition and calorie content

Apricot kernel contains many useful substances. In its chemical composition, it is unique. In the seed there are such substances:

1. A number of vitamins A, C, F, PP and group B. Amygdalin (B17) belongs to the last group, which causes so much debate among scientists and concerns in people. Some biologists claim the beneficial properties of this vitamin, especially for people with cancer. Others are of the opinion that amygdalin releases a large amount of cyanide, which often leads to acute cases of poisoning.
2. Essential oils. They are contained in large volumes, so the bones have a fat content of 50-60%.
3. Micro and macro elements: calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium.
4. Acids. Most of all, the seed contains oleic acid - about 30%. It strengthens the walls of blood vessels, and also helps to prolong youth. Palmitic acid is, of course, found in other products of plant origin. It has useful properties that are used in medicine and the manufacture of cosmetics. The human body does not produce linolenic acid on its own, but receives it by eating foods enriched with it. It helps fight malignant tumors. Niacin helps lower cholesterol.

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

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

Eating seeds for people who are obese or dieting is not recommended, as the calorie content of the product is quite high: 470 calories per 100 g.

What are apricot kernels useful for?

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

For men

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

Fats, proteins contained in the product contribute to the rapid restoration of strength and weight gain. This is very important for men who are fond of bodybuilding, weightlifting and engaged in heavy physical labor.

For women

The complex of nutrients has a beneficial effect on the female body, especially during hormonal disruptions and nervous disorders. They normalize blood circulation, preventing the formation of varicose veins. A high oleic acid content fights the aging process, which is why it is found in various cosmetics. Also, for the representatives of the beautiful half of humanity, oil is useful.

During pregnancy

Vitamins and minerals found in natural products are absorbed faster by the body. Pregnant women need an additional source of vitamins, and apricot seed, in addition to a large set of nutrients, contains calcium, phosphorus and folic acid. It is necessary for the unborn child for full development. Iron and copper prevent the occurrence of anemia by increasing hemoglobin. These elements are contained in a rather large volume.

But it is better for pregnant women to reduce the daily dose for adults by 2 times and not to eat the product more than 1 time per 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, diarrhea in the baby. It is better to completely abandon the fruit nucleoli, as they can have a negative effect on the development of the child’s nervous system.

For kids

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 adolescents. Apricot kernels have expectorant properties, therefore, during the period of illness, infusions for children are made from them.

Often children are not recommended to use the product. The main thing is to adhere to permissible standards and not give it to babies under the age of 3-4 years.

When losing weight

For dieters, this is an indispensable product in the diet. After all, the fats, proteins, carbohydrates contained here sufficiently can make up for the missing balance. At the same time, fats are quickly absorbed and broken down in the body, as this is a natural product. Apricot kernels can be added to yogurt, granola, milk porridge. But do not forget about the high calorie content of the product, so you should not eat more than 5-7 pieces per day.

Seeds can be eaten fried or raw. The second option is more effective. But the most important thing is that they are fresh.

Apricot kernel urbech: benefits and harms

A useful, besides very tasty pasta with the addition of apricot kernels, which has a creamy flavor, is called urbec. This dish is considered Dagestanis national. The composition usually includes flax seeds, sunflower seeds, apricot kernels, butter and honey. All these components are useful in their own way, and in combination they represent a unique set of proteins, fats, carbohydrates and vitamins.

Urbech can be purchased at the store ready-made or prepared independently, but this is a long and laborious process. All cores must be carefully ground to a homogeneous mass.

Urbek can be used for medicinal purposes, since it:

1. It is especially good for colds - it is an excellent expectorant, which also enhances immunity.
2. It removes toxins and normalizes metabolism.
3. Improves bowel function, relieving bloating and constipation.
4. Normalizes the work of the heart, 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 spread a toast on them. This sandwich will be a great addition to a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast. Also, fresh pieces of fruit are dipped into it. It is better to use sweet and sour fruits so that the taste is not cloying.

Urbech is an indispensable product for raw foodists and vegetarians. It adds to the body the missing beneficial elements, including proteins and fats. It is recommended to eat with heavy physical exertion.

But with urbec it is necessary to be careful and not to abuse. Overeating can cause nausea, dizziness, and intestinal upset. To avoid such symptoms, the norm should be observed: adults - no more than 1 tablespoon per day, children - a maximum of 1 teaspoon. This product is contraindicated for people prone to allergies, as it contains honey. It is not recommended to eat it to overweight people or dieters, since the product is very high-calorie.

Apricot kernel oil: properties and application

In ancient times, the beneficial qualities of apricot kernel oil were already known. The first to use it for medical and cosmetic purposes were smart Chinese. In European countries, the miraculous means of this product became known about two millennia ago.

It became widespread already in the 17th century. Oil was rare at the time and was quite expensive. It was used in the treatment of ulcers, various tumors, and even instead of perfumes. It has a delicate, pleasant smell with notes of nutty aroma.

Apricot trees grow all over the world, but seed oil from its fruits is still very expensive, as it is a laborious and costly process. Get the product by cold pressed seeds.Thanks to this, the oil retains all unique qualities.

The basis is 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 beneficial effect on the skin, improving its color. Vitamin A normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands. It is very useful for acne in adolescents.

Apricot kernel oil can be used as a sun protection due to its vitamin F. It has a calming effect on the body during redness and flaking, as well as seborrhea. Oil takes a leading place in the amount of this useful element.

In its pure form, the product is liquid, has a yellowish tint, flowing and transparent.

It is often used in cosmetology:

1. The increased content of fatty acids in combination with the vitamin complex, salts of magnesium, zinc and potassium promotes rapid absorption into the skin.
2. The oil has warming properties, so it is used in various products for body wraps, as well as anti-cellulite creams.
3. In its pure form it is used for massage. It is quickly absorbed into the skin and leaves no residue, it smells good.
4. The moisturizing and anti-aging properties of the oil are used for the preparation of cream, face masks. Such funds contribute to the effective tightening of the skin and remove facial wrinkles from the face.
5. It acts as one of the components of the composition of shampoos for dandruff, helps eliminate seborrhea and exfoliate keratinized head cells. When it is used, blood circulation is restored, the hair acquires a lively look and shine.

In medicine, the product often acts as a component in the composition of ointments for burns, abrasions, cuts, is present in creams from cracks in the feet, and is used as a solvent for certain medications.

Apricot kernel oil occupies a leading position among nutrients and moisturizers.

In cooking, it is used as a flavoring for liquors, desserts, salads. Italian cooks like to add it to ready meals.

Apricot kernels in medicine

For the first time, the healing properties of apricot kernels were discovered by healers of Ancient Tibet. Then the miraculous qualities of this product began to be used everywhere. Now the benefits and harms of apricot kernels are well understood, so their healing properties have found application in traditional medicine.

For the treatment of cancer

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

In the morning before eating, you should eat one apricot kernel. To increase efficiency, it is necessary to exclude sugar and coffee from the diet. The period of treatment is determined by the doctor.

For colds accompanied by cough

Indigents:

• Apricot kernels - 20 g.
• Knotweed bird (grass-murava) - 10 g.
• Horsetail - 10 g.
• Thyme - 10 g.
• Ledum Escape - 10 g.
• Water - 200 ml.
• Celandine - 10 g.

Apricot kernels crushed in a mortar. You can use a coffee grinder or a blender. Stir with all herbs and put to boil (you can just pour boiling water). As soon as the mixture boils, remove from the stove. Leave on the table for 30-40 minutes. Strain. Take 50 ml before meals 3 times a day.

From conjunctivitis

Indigents:

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

Crush the bones as finely as possible, pour cool boiling water. Leave on for 4–5 hours. Strain and do lotions on the eyes 4-5 times a day.

From bronchitis and pneumonia

Indigents:

• Apricot kernel - 125 g.
• Water - 250 ml.
• Walnut - 125 g.
• Honey - 250 ml.

Fry the kernels of nuts and apricots in a dry pan (2-3 minutes). Finely chop. Put in a pan, add water and let it boil. Reduce heat, cook until water boils. After adding honey, mix everything and hold for 2 minutes on fire. Take ½ teaspoon before meals in the morning and evening. Keep the mass in the refrigerator.

To increase immunity

The nut-fruit mixture includes the following ingredients:

• Dried apricots - 100 g.
• Dried figs - 100 g.
• Black raisins - 100 g.
• Lemon - 1 pc.
• Pitted prunes - 100 g.
• Apricot kernels - 3 pcs.
• Walnut Kernels - 100 g.
• Honey - 100 ml.

Grind all components in a blender. Pour with honey and let it brew for 1 hour. Take in the morning, before meals, 1 teaspoon. Keep refrigerated.

To relieve joint pain

100 g of crushed apricot kernels pour 200 g of vodka. Medical alcohol can be used, but diluted with water: 150 g of alcohol per 50 ml of water. Cover the container with a kitchen towel or a piece of cloth. Tincture should stand for 2–2.5 weeks. Rub joints once a day. Then wrap with a linen napkin, on top with a clean wool scarf. So walk no more than 30 minutes.

Apricot kernels are part of some biologically active additives, which are used as an adjunct in cardiovascular diseases, constipation, and bloating.

The use of apricot kernels in cosmetology

Apricot kernels have unique properties that prolong the youth of not only the body, but also the skin of the face, hands and body. Manufacturers of cosmetics add them to the composition of scrubs for all parts of the body. They do a good job of removing dead cells.

The face requires a more gentle cleansing, so finely divided bones are used in cleansers. Means are suitable for cleaning combination and oily skin type. Medium sized core particles are used in body scrubs. The composition for the feet contains particles of coarse seeds. Such scrubs remove corns, coarsened skin from the heels. After application, the feet become tender and soft.

At home, you can cook natural masks and creams from apricot kernels or oil.

Complexion scrub

Indigents:

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

Pre-chop the bones with a blender or coffee grinder. You can immediately prepare raw materials for 2 servings of the product, but not more, since over time it loses its useful qualities. Mash apricots with a spoon or use a blender. Mix the ingredients. Apply to the face with massaging movements, gently rubbing the scrub. Leave on for 7-10 minutes, then rinse.

Oily Skin Cleanser

Indigents:

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

Grind the bones. Pour with water and let stand for 5-15 minutes. Drain the water, add oatmeal. Stir with a spoon, gradually pouring milk. It will take a little: the mixture should turn into a thick mass. Then put honey. Apply to the face with circular massaging movements. Leave on for 3-5 minutes, rinse with warm water.

Nail Strengthener

Indigents:

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

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

Mask for problem and oily skin

Indigents:

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

Mix all components, apply on face, avoiding eye area. The tool can not be washed off.

Rejuvenating scrub for decollete and face

Indigents:

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

Mix all the ingredients. Before use, cleanse the face, neck. Apply to skin and leave for 5-10 minutes. Wash off the cream after this scrub is better not to use.

Apricot pits in cooking

Representatives of the Indian tribe of Husa eat vegetarian food.A mandatory product in the daily diet is apricot, which is eaten with bone. The tribe is recognized as the most long-lived people on the planet, the life expectancy of 115-120 years. According to researchers, apricot kernels play an important role in this. But this product is not only eaten raw.

Culinary experts and cooks around the world use fresh or dried apricots for cooking, but they don’t throw kernels. They also found application. They serve as decoration of various desserts, cakes. They are also added to cake cream, waffles and various syrups.

In the food industry, apricot kernels are used as an enhancer of the taste and aroma of ice cream, yoghurts, and cookies.

They serve as an additive for the manufacture of various goodies and at home. Pitted apricot jam or various stewed fruits have an even greater aroma and beneficial properties. During heat treatment, the cores do not lose their useful qualities.

Harm and contraindications

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

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

Irreplaceable harm to health can also be caused by kernels stored beyond the due time, because over time, the concentration of the harmful substance in them increases.

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

• with individual intolerance to the product;
• liver pathologies, especially during exacerbation;
• an ulcer of the stomach and duodenum;
• problems with the endocrine system;
• diabetes mellitus.

Is it possible to poison with apricot kernels

You can get poisoned even with the safest product, and even more so with apricot kernels. Trouble can occur if a person has eaten the nucleoli with an expiration date or has exceeded several times the allowable daily allowance. Fresh apricot kernels are dry, have the same uniform color of a light brown shade and aroma similar to almonds.

The first symptoms of poisoning appear pretty quickly:

• general weakness, accompanied by aching in the muscles and joints;
• nasal congestion, rapid breathing;
• pain in the abdomen, bloating, flatulence;
• nausea and vomiting;
• severe dizziness;
• unexpected panic fear.

External signs of hydrocyanic acid poisoning:

• uneven heart rate;
• bright red color of the mucosa;
• cramps that quickly spread throughout the body;
• intermittent breathing (over time, it becomes generally difficult to breathe).

With these symptoms, you need to urgently call an ambulance. Be sure to tell doctors about eating apricot kernels.

How to store apricot kernels

The cores can be stored in a hard shell or previously removed. If the product is slightly humid, it should be dried, since mold will form quickly on raw kernels. In this case, they will have to be thrown away.

Store kernels in a glass container with a tight-fitting lid. You can use a linen bag with ties. The second way is even better, since the nucleoli will not be damp.

The jar or bag should be kept in a dry place where sunlight does not penetrate. This is usually a kitchen cabinet. The main thing is that it should not be located above the stove.

With proper storage, the shelf life of peeled apricot kernels is 1 year.

Interesting facts about apricots

1. For Europeans, apricot was called the Armenian apple for a long time, since it was imported from Armenia.
2. Apricot has its own personal holiday. Americans celebrate Apricot Day on January 9, attributing it to national holidays.
3. More than 20 varieties of this culture are known in the world.The most unusual are black apricots. They were obtained by breeders by crossing apricot seedlings and cherry plum.
4. Apricot in the Middle Ages was considered one of the most powerful aphrodisiacs.
5. Byzantine court healers recommended these juicy fruits to their rulers and their wives. The emperors took them to strengthen male power, and women - to prolong youth. Apricot juice was included in the daily diet of the imperial family.
6. Apricot is a unique fruit. The fruit itself, seeds, leaves and even the bark of the tree have healing and beneficial properties.
7. Charles I, having first tried apricot, was delighted. He ordered all merchants to deliver fruit only to the royal palace. It was unavailable to ordinary people, since the king vetoed the sale.
8. The first information about apricot trees appeared in historical chronicles about Moscow in 1654. That year, 19 trees from different parts of the country were brought to Izmailovsky Park, 2 of them were apricot.

Photo apricot kernels