When you’ve lived through a cancer diagnosis, every day becomes a conscious act of healing. It’s not just about treatment—it’s about how you move forward, what you choose to put in your body, and how you reclaim a sense of control. That’s where my experience with apricot seeds—and specifically amygdalin, sometimes called “vitamin B17”—comes in.
I take five apricot seeds a day, and I take them with something sweet. It’s a small habit that’s become part of my post-cancer routine, and in this post, I want to share why.
What Are Apricot Seeds and Why Are People Talking About Them?
Apricot seeds (also called kernels) contain a natural compound called amygdalin. Some proponents in the alternative health space claim that amygdalin can help fight cancer. The theory is that when metabolized, amygdalin releases cyanide, which can kill cells—including, supposedly, cancer cells.
This theory gained popularity decades ago, especially with the promotion of a synthetic version of amygdalin called laetrile, marketed as an alternative cancer treatment. Despite its popularity in some circles, it has been heavily criticized and discredited by mainstream science due to lack of evidence and potential safety risks.
Why I Take Apricot Seeds—And How
Let me be very clear: I’m not recommending this for everyone, and I’m not claiming that apricot seeds cure cancer. But here’s what I do:
- I take five seeds a day—never more.
- I chew them well, and I like to take them with something sweet, usually a piece of fruit or a spoonful of honey.
Why something sweet? According to the theory, cancer cells crave sugar more than healthy cells. So, the idea is that the sugar may help “carry” the amygdalin more directly to tumors, like a Trojan horse. While this is not scientifically proven, it’s a concept that makes intuitive sense to many who follow natural health practices—and it’s part of why I do it that way.
I’ve never experienced side effects, but I also listen to my body closely, and I make this choice with full awareness of the risks.
What the Science Actually Says
Here’s the reality: scientific research does not currently support apricot seeds or amygdalin as a proven cancer treatment. Clinical trials conducted decades ago—including by the National Cancer Institute—found no measurable benefit from laetrile in terms of survival or tumor reduction.
In fact, because amygdalin can convert into cyanide in the body, consuming large amounts of apricot seeds can be toxic. The FDA, Cancer Research UK, and the European Food Safety Authority have all issued warnings about the potential for cyanide poisoning—especially with high consumption.
Even small amounts can be risky for people with certain metabolic conditions or if taken in combination with other supplements or medications. That’s why I always recommend talking to a qualified doctor before considering it.
Why I Still Do It
For me, it’s not about choosing alternative treatments instead of traditional ones—it’s about complementing what I’ve already done. Apricot seeds are a small daily reminder that I’m actively involved in my healing. They’re part of a larger picture that includes:
- Evidence-based treatments
- Mindful nutrition
- Stress management
- Honest conversations with my doctors
Taking five seeds with something sweet is my quiet ritual. It gives me focus. It gives me peace. But I always emphasize: this is what I’ve chosen, based on my own research and my own comfort level.
Final Thoughts
If you’re walking your own cancer path, I encourage you to stay open but grounded. There’s a lot of information out there—some helpful, some misleading. Not everything “natural” is automatically safe or effective. But at the same time, it’s okay to explore what feels right for you, especially when done with awareness and caution.
Helpful Resources:
- National Cancer Institute: Laetrile (Amygdalin)
- Cancer Council Australia: Apricot Kernels
- FDA Warning on Amygdalin and Apricot Seeds
This post is based on my personal experience and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement or therapy.
