By Apricot Power
Apricot Seeds

Everything You Want to Know About Apricot Seeds (including our favorite ways to eat them!)

Outline:

1. What are Apricot Seeds/ “Apricot Kernels”?

2. Is It Safe to Consume Apricot Kernels?

3. What Nutrients Do Apricot Kernels Contain?

4. How Do You Eat Apricot Seeds? 

5. What Are Some of the Benefits of Consuming Apricot Seeds? 

6. Some of Our Favorite Ways to Eat Apricot Seeds 

7. Conclusion

1) What are Apricot Seeds/ “Apricot Kernels”?

You may have eaten an apricot fruit before, but do you know that there is a highly beneficial seed inside of this delicious fruit?

Hidden in the pit of the apricot, ignored by most consumers, Apricot Seeds are actually the most nutrient dense part of the fruit, containing the highest concentration of B17 (amagdylin) found in any food on the planet!

Apricot Kernels’ (Prunus Armeniaca) popularity originated in Armenia and Northern Pakistan.

The Hunza Clan of Northern Pakistan was the first community to embrace apricot seeds as a vital health supplement. Some Hunza people are said to live over 135 years, and almost all the Hunza members were in perfect health, even in older age.

According to a study completed by biochemist Dr. Ernest Krebs, the secret to the Hunzas’ longevity was their healthy lifestyle and diet. More specifically, they got plenty of exercise, ate little sugar, and consumed apricot seed kernels on a daily basis.

Additionally, Apricot seeds are also widely used in Chinese, Indian, and other Asian medicinal practices dating back hundreds of years. In traditional Chinese medicine, they are used for asthma, cough, and other respiratory issues.

Because of their appearance and taste, apricot seeds are also called “bitter almonds.” In fact, they are a known replacement for almonds around the world. However, Apricot seeds (or kernels) are more than just an alternative to almonds. They are PACKED with nutrients and are highly beneficial for human health.

The seeds are most popular for being a dense source of Vitamin B17 (also known as amygdalin) and has an impressive list of benefits for human health.

Here are just a few potential benefits of taking apricot kernels that have been reported over the years:

- Increase Memory Recollection

- Improved Hair Growth

- Regulating Hypertension

- Pain Relief

- Antioxidant Properties

2) Is It Safe to Consume Apricot Kernels?

Yes. Apricot seeds are safe to eat when eaten properly and in moderation! Anything can be dangerous if consumed incorrectly; vitamins, water, and even oxygen can be toxic if consumed in excess.

Apricot Power recommends that you start with a small amount of apricot seeds a day. We suggest you start by eating one seed an hour to see if you experience any headaches, dizziness, upset stomach, or other negative side effects. If you do experience any negative side effects reduce the amount of seeds you are eating per hour or day. Additionally, we recommend to not consume more than 3 seeds per hour up to 10 seeds a day. 

Just as when you begin any diet or supplemental change, it’s important to listen to your body and make adjustments where necessary.

3) What Nutrients Do Apricot Kernels Contain?

Apricot kernels are composed of many nutrients; they are best known, however, for their B17 content. In each Apricot Power apricot seed, there are about 20mg of vitamin B17 (amygdalin).

Vitamin B17, also known as amygdalin, is said to support a healthy immune system, and have anti-inflammatory properties. 

Besides B17, apricot seeds pack a punch with additional nutritional benefits. Here is a nutritional breakdown of apricot kernels:

- 28-66% oils

- 14-35% proteins (31-33% are essential amino acids)

- 19-28% carbohydrates

- 5-6% fiber

Apricot seeds are also very rich in Vitamin E.

Further, within apricot seeds there is an abundance of fatty acids, which are excellent for human health. Fatty acids are beneficial for brain and muscle activity. They are essential for healthy hair, strong bones, and a well-functioning metabolism. Because the human body cannot produce fatty acids on its own, we must ingest certain foods to get this vital nutrient.

4)   How do you eat apricot seeds?

1- Wash the apricot pits in clean water.

2- Pick apricot flesh off the pits and discard or consume

3- Place them on a paper towel and leave them there for a couple of hours. The pits will easily crack once they are dry

4- We need the inner seed of the apricot pit. Use a nutcracker to crack open the pit. If you don't have a nutcracker, place the pits against a hard surface and crack using a hard object. Don't hit the pit too hard; a mild hit will do the job. A strong hit will dismantle the seed, making it difficult to collect all the pieces.

Now you're ready to eat it raw! Keep in mind, there are both sweet and bitter apricot seeds. The bitter seeds contain higher amounts of Vitamin B17. If you’d like to purchase ready-to-eat apricot seeds, click here.

5)   What are Some of the Benefits of Consuming Apricot Seeds?

So far we’ve told you some positive information about apricot seeds and their nutritional value. Now that you have some background information, let’s take a closer look at specific cases where apricot kernels may benefit your health. 

1.    Apricot Kernels May Improve Muscle Growth and Repair

Because apricot seeds have a large amount of protein, they may promote muscle growth and repair.

2.   Apricot Seed Products in Cosmetics and Skincare

Apricot kernels are excellent for cosmetic use. They contain high levels of fatty acids, vitamin A & E. These components are used to nourish and  moisturize dry and mature skin.

Cosmetics like soaps, creams, lotions, face washes, and liquid makeup use apricot seed oil in their formulas. They can be used as a natural skin scrub/exfoliant, as a massage oil, and may contain anti-aging and moisturizing properties.

3.   Apricot Kernels for Arthritis, Inflammation, and Pain Management:

Apricot seeds may act as an anti-inflammatory agent to help reduce arthritis symptoms as well as soothe and provide relief from pain and inflammation. 4.  Apricot Seed Oil in Cooking:

Apricot seed oil is widely used in cooking, garnishing, and flavoring of traditional Italian liquor. 

Seed oil can easily replace almond oil; it can also be used instead of olive oil.

5.    Uses for Healthy Hair and Hair Loss:

Apricot Kernel oil is a great addition to your hair care routine; it contains multiple nutrients that may help to heal your dry scalp and stop rapid hair loss. In fact, some people rub the oil into their scalp to prevent hair loss and foster hair regrowth.

6.    Apricot Kernels May Help Balance Cholesterol Levels

Apricot seeds contain a high level of fiber, which may help lower your blood cholesterol level. Taking apricot seeds on a regular basis may help to lower blood cholesterol levels and may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke.

7.   Apricot Seed Oil for Massage: 

A massage oil should be comforting and easily absorbed into the skin. Good news: apricot kernel oil contains that property!

Blend apricot seed oil with your primary massage oil. It may increase the benefits of massage to reduce pain and inflammation and release stress. The oil is also mild and non-irritating.

8. Apricot Seeds and Immune System Support:

Studies show that apricot seeds may boost your immune system due to their amygdalin content. Amygdalin is believed to stimulate defensive cells in the body.

9. Apricot Kernels Support Respiratory Health and Digestive Health: 

Apricot kernels are believed to have properties that support both respiratory and digestive health. In traditional Chinese Medicine and other holistic medical practices, apricot seeds are believed to help decrease mucus and phlegm. Further, apricot seeds are naturally high in fiber, which supports digestive and colon health. 

6)   Some of Our Favorite Ways to Eat Apricot Kernels

There are a lot of tasty ways you can enjoy apricot kernels. Below, we have outlined some of the recipes we love for enjoying our favorite B17-packed seed.

Want even more ways to enjoy apricot seeds? In this blog post, the Apricot Power team discusses even more ways to consume apricot seeds. 

Here are some delicious apricot kernel recipes to try at home:  

Apricot kernel recipes:

i.                   Marzipan:

Marzipan is a confection made from egg whites, sugar/honey, and almonds. Apricot seeds and almonds have an almost identical texture, so you can substitute almonds for apricot seeds.

It is a simple dish; no need for a stove/oven! It is made up of only a few ingredients.

Check it out:

Ingredients:

- 11/4 C. unblanched, unroasted almonds

- 2t. grated apricot seeds

- 21/4C. brown sugar

- 3 egg whites

Follow these directions:

1.    Grind all ingredients (EXCEPT egg whites) in the blender until very fine.

2.    One at a time, blend in egg whites with fingers.

3.    Massage until smooth.

4.    Press into molds or slice.

5.    Cool it and eat up!

 

ii.                Eggnog:

Eggnog is a widely-loved favorite during the holiday season! It is a dairy-based beverage made with milk, cream, sugar, whipped egg whites, and egg yolks.

We love incorporating apricot kernels in this healthy, tasty beverage. 

Here is the recipe: 

Ingredients:

- 2C. raw milk, chilled

- 2 eggs

- 1-2 bananas

- 2T. sorghum cane syrup

- 2T. carob powder

- 1t. inactive yeast powder.

- 2T. raw wheat germ, fresh

- 2T. powdered milk, non-instant

- 2T. apricot kernel, ground.

Follow these directions:

1.    Blend all the ingredients in one blender at high speed.

2.    Chill it and drink at once. 

This drink contains a high level of protein, calcium and other beneficial nutrients.

 

iii.             Apple bites

This is a super easy, sweet dish to prepare using cream cheese, raisins, and apricot seeds.

Raisins increase the flavor with extra sweetness, and apricot seeds provide an extra crunch to the snack.

 Here is the recipe:

Ingredients:

- 8 oz. package cream cheese

- 16 apple seeds

- 17 raisins

- 1 apple, grated

- 3T. apricot seeds, ground

- Pinch of mace

Follow these directions:

1.    Mix the apple with cream cheese.

2.    Place apple seeds inside of raisins.

3.    Put raisins in the middle of a small ball of apple cream cheese.

4.    Roll in the apricot seeds.

5.    Let it chill for a couple of hours. Then, enjoy!

 

iv.             Almond Bavarian Cream:

Bavarian Cream is a dessert that consists of milk, whipped cream, egg, and gelatin. It is made in cold molds. 

Apricot seeds add a crispy, crunchy texture to this wonderful dish.

Here is the recipe:

Ingredients:

- Gelatin

- 1/2C. cold milk

- 1/3C. boiling water

- ½C. honey

- 4 eggs

- 1T. vanilla

- 2t. grated apricot kernel

- ½ raw cream.

Follow these directions:

1.    Blend all the ingredients.

2.    Pour the mixture in the mold.

3.    Let it chill for 4-6 hours or overnight.

Warm the exterior of the mold (slightly) to ensure a smooth removal. Place the mold upside down on a serving plate and enjoy.

 

v.                Raisin-Apricot Glazed Ham:

Ingredients:

- 8 pounds of fully cooked boneless ham

- 18 ounces of apricot preserves

- 2 ounces almonds

- ½ cup raisins

- 2 tablespoon lemon juice

Follow these directions:

1.    Put almonds, raisins, apricot preserves and lemon juice in a bowl.

2.    Stir well for a nice glaze.

3.    Place ham in a shallow roasting pan.

4.    Bake the ham in the oven (325-degree F) for 2 hours (allow 15 minutes per pound). 

5.    Spoon glaze over ham once or twice during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.

6.    Serve it hot.

*Remember to follow recommended daily apricot seed consumption guidelines when enjoying these recipes!*

7)    Conclusion

For decades, apricot kernels have stirred debate over just how beneficial they are. Despite some people’s doubts, we can’t ignore the great variety natural benefits of apricot seeds. 

Vitamin B17 is essential and incredibly beneficial for the human body when consumed in moderate amounts. 

Apricot seeds can be mixed in a variety of dishes to enhance flavors. They can also be used in massage oils, cosmetics, and natural skincare products.

And remember, moderation is key!

"Any information contained herein is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or illness. Articles and websites linked herein are not endorsed by and do not necessarily represent the views held by Apricot Power Inc."