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Updated: Jun 9, 2025

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Determination of Self- and Inter-incompatibility Relationships in Apricot Combining Hand-Pollination, Microscopy and Genetic Analyses
Published on: June 16, 2020
7.2K
[Intoxication due to apricot pits].
Jules L Derks1, Mariëlle Slikkerveer2,3, Roel Janssen4
1Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht. Afd. Longziekten, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|October 30, 2024
Summary
Apricot seeds contain toxic cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause severe poisoning and death even in small amounts. Prompt medical treatment is crucial for survival after apricot seed ingestion.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Apricot seeds are promoted online for purported health benefits, including cancer prevention and energy enhancement.
- These seeds contain high concentrations of cyanogenic glycosides, posing a significant health risk.
- Ingestion of a small number of apricot pits (1-3) can lead to severe symptoms, with fatalities reported from consuming over 20 pits.
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