Bitter Apricot Seed — Safety & Interactions
Ku Xing Ren · Semen Armeniacae Amarum
Contraindicated / High risk. Use only under practitioner supervision.
Contraindications
- Raw or unprocessed internal use
- Overdose or unsupervised use in children
- Loose stools or diarrhea
- Yin-deficiency dry cough without an appropriate moistening formula context
Cautions
- Bitter apricot seed contains amygdalin, which can release hydrogen cyanide; raw kernels and overdoses can cause respiratory failure, coma, and death
- Proper processing by scalding, removing the skin and tip, and adequate decoction substantially reduces toxicity and is essential for safe use
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding require special caution because cyanogenic toxicity would pose fetal or infant risk even though the herb is not universally classed as a strict pregnancy taboo in the classical literature
Drug Interactions
| Drug Class / Substrate | Mechanism | Severity | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-dose vitamin C | Concurrent use with amygdalin or apricot kernels has been associated with increased cyanide toxicity | Major | Memorial Sloan Kettering Integrative Medicine - Amygdalin |
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal medicines, especially if you take prescription medications.