Understanding Amygdalin: The Natural Compound in Apricot Seeds

1 Month Ago | By Apricot Power
Apricot Seeds • B17 • Health & Wellness

At Apricot Power, we believe in transparency and education. A key compound in our products is amygdalin, which is found naturally in apricot seeds. We understand there are questions about this compound, and we want to provide a clear, science-based perspective.

A Natural, Plant-Based Compound

Amygdalin is a natural compound that belongs to a family called cyanogenic glycosides. These are found in thousands of plant species, including many common foods like:

• Almonds
  

• Lima Beans
  

• Flax Seeds
  

• Barley and Millet
  

• The seeds of apples, cherries, and pears

These compounds have been a part of the human diet for centuries.

How Your Body Processes Amygdalin

Amygdalin is a molecule made of several components, including cyanide, that are tightly bound together. In this natural state, the compound is biologically inactive.

When amygdalin is introduced into the body, a brilliant metabolic system takes over. A specific enzyme called rhodanese, which is abundant in our tissues, has a primary job: to find any such compounds and safely neutralize them. Rhodanese expertly breaks down the molecule and converts its cyanide component into thiocyanate, a harmless substance that the body can easily and safely excrete.