Amygdalin

PhytochemicalCyanogenic glycoside

What is it

Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glycoside found in the seeds of apricots, bitter almonds, peaches, and apples. It was marketed in the 1970s under the misleading name 'vitamin B17' or 'laetrile' as an alternative cancer treatment, a claim that has been thoroughly debunked.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Cancer treatment

Mixed Evidence

Cochrane reviews and multiple controlled studies show no evidence of anticancer benefit. Cyanide poisoning is a documented hazard.

How it works

When amygdalin is ingested, beta-glucosidase enzymes (from gut bacteria, plant sources, or the compound itself) release hydrogen cyanide (HCN). The 'laetrile' theory proposed selective release in tumors, which has never been demonstrated. Instead, cyanide release occurs systemically and can produce acute toxicity. Multiple well-controlled clinical trials and a comprehensive Cochrane review have found no evidence of anticancer benefit, and substantial evidence of harm.

Dosage

There is no safe or established dose. Promoters' protocols have caused severe cyanide poisoning and death.

When and how to take it

No safe use.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Amygdalin / laetrile / 'vitamin B17'

Marketed as alternative cancer treatment; not a vitamin and not approved.

Releases cyanide on hydrolysis.

Safety

Documented cases of cyanide poisoning and death from amygdalin/laetrile use, especially with oral intake combined with vitamin C (which can increase cyanide release). Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, hypotension, hypoxia, coma, and death.

Who should be cautious

Do not use. Especially hazardous in pregnancy, children, and anyone with liver or kidney impairment. Cancer patients should not delay evidence-based treatment for this unproven approach.

Interactions

Vitamin C and high glucose intake can increase cyanide release from amygdalin. Many medications and supplements are unsafe to combine.

Food sources

Apricot kernels (raw bitter)

Amount
Significant amygdalin; toxic in quantity
%DV
—

Bitter almonds (raw)

Amount
Toxic in quantity
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is amygdalin (laetrile) a vitamin?⌄

No. The 'vitamin B17' label is marketing, not science. Amygdalin is not a vitamin and humans do not require it.

Can it cure cancer?⌄

No. Extensive evidence shows no benefit and substantial harm. Do not delay evidence-based cancer treatment.

References

Amygdalin on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Amygdalin (ChEBI:17019) — ChEBI link

Amygdalin (PubChem CID 656516) — PubChem link

Amygdalin on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Amygdalin (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Amygdalin with Pilora

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.