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Bitter almond

Almonds are a well-known type of nut. They can be either sweet or bitter depending on the type of tree they grow on. Sweet almonds grow on the almond tree known by the Latin name Prunus Amygdalus var. Dulcis and contain no toxic chemicals. Bitter al monds grow on a different type of almond tree (Prunus Amygdalus var. Amara) and contain certain toxic chemicals. Despite safety concerns, the kernels of bitter almonds are used to make medicine for cramps, pain, coughs and itching. Volatile bitter almond oils can also be produced from the kernels of related plants including apricots (Prunus Armeniaca), peaches (Prunus Persica) and plums (Prunus Domestica). Similar to bitter almonds, these volatile oils are also considered toxic.

How does bitter almond work?

There is not enough scientific information available to assess how bitter almonds might work for any disease. Bitter almonds contain a toxic chemical called hydrogen cyanide, which can cause serious side effects.

How effective are bitter almonds?

There is not enough scientific data to evaluate the effectiveness of bitter almonds for cramps, pain, coughing and itching. More scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of bitter almonds for these conditions.

Safety and side effects

Bitter almonds should not be used as they are not considered safe. Bitter almonds contain hydrocyanic acid and can cause serious side effects such as slowing nervous system function and respiratory problems, and can even be fatal.

Precautions and warnings

It is not safe for anyone to use bitter almonds, but some people have additional reasons not to consume bitter almond products.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It is not safe for expectant and nursing mothers and babies to use bitter almond products.

Surgeries: Bitter almonds can slow down the functioning of the nervous system. Anesthetics and other medications used during surgery have a similar effect. The combination of bitter almonds with these drugs can slow down the function of the central nervous system too much. For this reason, bitter almonds should not be consumed during the last 2 weeks before an operation.

Interactions

Care should be taken when combining bitter almonds with the following medications:

Sedatives (CNS suppressing agents)

Bitteralmonds can be toxic and cause drowsiness and dizziness. Drugs that cause drowsiness are called sedatives. Taking bitter almonds in combination with sedatives could cause excessive drowsiness.

Dosage

An appropriate dosage of bitter almonds depends on various factors such as age, state of health and others. At this time, there is insufficient scientific data to determine appropriate dosage ranges for bitter almonds. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.

References

  1. Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996.
  2. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.