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Bitter Almond
Overview
Bitter almond (Prunus amygdalus var. amara) is a type of almond. It contains a toxic chemical called amygdalin, which is poisonous when consumed.
The amygdalin in bitter almond turns into poisonous hydrocyanic acid (HCN) in the body. This chemical slows down the nervous system and causes serious breathing problems. Sweet almond (Prunus dulcis), which is the type of almond that is commonly eaten, doesn’t contain these toxins.
People apply bitter almond for stretch marks and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Don’t confuse bitter almond with sweet almond or apricot kernel. These are not the same.
The amygdalin in bitter almond turns into poisonous hydrocyanic acid (HCN) in the body. This chemical slows down the nervous system and causes serious breathing problems. Sweet almond (Prunus dulcis), which is the type of almond that is commonly eaten, doesn’t contain these toxins.
People apply bitter almond for stretch marks and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Don’t confuse bitter almond with sweet almond or apricot kernel. These are not the same.
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