amygdalin

Amygdalin is a naturally occurring cyanogenic glycoside found in the seeds of many fruits, especially apricots, bitter almonds, apples, peaches, cherries, and plums. It has been promoted as an alternative cancer treatment since the 1950s under various names including laetrile and "vitamin B17," though it is not a vitamin. When metabolized in the body—especially when taken orally—amygdalin is broken down by beta-glucosidase enzymes to produce prunasin and mandelonitrile; these are further hydrolyzed to benzaldehyde and hydrocyanic acid (cyanide), which is highly toxic. The proposed mechanism for anticancer activity involves selective toxicity of cyanide toward cancer cells; however, this theory has not been substantiated in humans or clinical trials. Amygdalin also exhibits anti-inflammatory effects via immunomodulation of Treg cells and inhibition of COX-2/iNOS pathways in animal studies. Despite anecdotal claims for use against cancer or pain relief, there is no reliable evidence supporting its efficacy for any medical condition. Its use carries significant risk due to potential cyanide poisoning[1][2][3][4][5].

Other names

laetrilevitamin B17mandelonitrile-beta-glucuronidemandelonitrile beta-D-gentiobiosidenitrilosidepurasin