Can bitter almonds cause poisoning if consumed? Before using bitter almonds in soups, stir-fries, or eating them raw, it's essential to understand their properties. Below, the Four Seasons Health Network explains: Are bitter almonds toxic?
Are bitter almonds toxic?
The tip and skin of bitter almonds contain toxic hydrogen cyanide.
Raw almonds contain a toxic compound called cyanogenic glycoside, which hydrolyzes in the gastrointestinal tract to release highly toxic hydrogen cyanide.Hydrocyanic acid is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, affecting cells throughout the body. It disrupts normal cellular respiration, causing widespread tissue hypoxia. By acting on the respiratory and cardiovascular centers, it leads to paralysis of these vital systems and death.
Due to its high toxicity, even a single bitter almond consumed out of curiosity by a child can cause poisoning.
Bitter almond poisoning typically begins about one hour after ingestion, primarily manifesting as neurological symptoms. Initial signs include vomiting, nausea, and headache; followed by palpitations, chest tightness, and generalized weakness; ultimately often resulting in death from respiratory paralysis. Besides bitter almonds, raw plum kernels and peach kernels can also cause similar poisoning symptoms.
Immediate hospital treatment is essential upon detecting bitter almond poisoning. If transportation is lengthy, gastric lavage should be performed first. Physicians typically administer antidotes like sodium nitrite or sodium thiosulfate while providing emergency care through cardiac stimulation and respiratory center stimulation. Untimely intervention may result in fatalities.
What are the effects of bitter almonds?
1. Cough suppression and bronchodilation
2. Effects on the digestive system
3. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects
4. Antitumor effects
5. Hypoglycemic effects
6. Hypolipidemic effects
7. Cosmetic effects
8.Other Effects
Bitter almond oil also exhibits anthelmintic and antibacterial properties. In vitro tests demonstrate its lethal effect on human roundworms and earthworms, along with antibacterial activity against Salmonella typhi and Salmonella paratyphi. Almonds further possess anti-pinworm and anti-trichomoniasis effects, and are used to treat aplastic anemia.Amygdalin has demonstrated significant therapeutic efficacy in treating schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis in rabbits and carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis in rats. Its mechanism involves increasing hepatic blood flow, enhancing collagenase activity against type I andand IV collagen, and by interfering with the formation of sinusoidal capillary networks through influencing the metabolism of IV collagen and laminin.