Bitter almond

The Bitter almond (Prunus dulcis var. amara) is a variant of the sweet almond and belongs to the rose family (Rosaceae). It is characterized by its distinctive bitter taste, which is attributable to its content of amygdalin. Bitter almonds have been used for centuries both in the kitchen and in traditional medicine, but with caution, as they can contain prussic acid (hydrogen cyanide).

What benefits does Bitter almond offer?

Bitter almonds are used in naturopathy for various purposes, although their use is limited due to the toxicity of prussic acid. Studies continue to examine the effects of the Bitter almond. Especially in the field of anti-cancer research, the amygdalin it contains appears to possess very interesting properties. The potential health benefits include:

  • Digestive support: Bitter almond oil is used in traditional medicine to relieve digestive complaints and flatulence. One study also linked them to a laxative effect (1)
  • Pain-relieving effect: Bitter almond oil is applied externally to relieve pain, especially for sore muscles and joint complaints. Studies documented an anti-inflammatory effect, which could be responsible for the pain-relieving effect (2)
  • Skin care: Bitter almond oil is often used in cosmetic products because it possesses moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties (2). It is used to treat dry skin and skin irritations.
  • Antibacterial properties: Bitter almond oil is said to have antimicrobial properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat minor wounds and infections.
  • Anti-carcinogenic effect: Studies suggest that Bitter almond extract could have cancer-inhibiting properties; in part, these may be based on an influence on apoptotic pathways through the regulation of the corresponding gene expression (3,4).

How does Bitter almond work?

The health effects of the Bitter almond are primarily attributable to the secondary plant compounds it contains:

  • Amygdalin: This compound is converted into prussic acid in the body, which is considered therapeutic in small amounts but toxic in high doses. Amygdalin has potentially anti-inflammatory, cancer-inhibiting, and antimicrobial properties (5).
  • Fatty acids: Bitter almond oil contains essential fatty acids, which in one study were able to contribute to skin care and skin regeneration (6).

Through their constituents, Bitter almonds act primarily externally, in an anti-inflammatory and caring manner, while internal use must be handled with caution due to the toxicity.

Side effects and risks

The use of Bitter almonds carries some risks, especially with internal use:

  • Risk of poisoning: Bitter almonds contain amygdalin, which is converted into prussic acid in the body when consumed. An overdose can lead to prussic acid poisoning, which can be fatal.
  • Allergic reactions: Like other nuts, Bitter almonds can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid Bitter almonds, as the effects on the unborn child or the breastfed baby have not been sufficiently studied.

Conclusion

Bitter almonds offer a range of health benefits, especially in skin care and pain treatment. However, because of their amygdalin content and the potential conversion into prussic acid, Bitter almonds should be used with great caution, especially for internal use. The external use of Bitter almond oil is considered safer and offers various health benefits.

Sources

  1. Kazerani, H., & Jalali, S. (2014). Laxative effect of bitter almond (Amygdalus communis var. amara). The Iranian Journal of Veterinary Science and Technology, 6(1), 37–47. https://doi.org/10.22067/veterinary.v6i1.19398
  2. el Kouacheur, G., Cherif, K., Saidi, F., & Fauconnier, M.-L. (2022). Prunus amygdalus var. amara (bitter almond) seed oil: Fatty acid composition, physicochemical parameters, enzyme inhibitory activity, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization, 17, 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11694-022-01629-2
  3. Abdolahi-Majd, M., Hassanshahi, G., Vatanparast, M., & Karimabad, M. N. (2022). Investigation of the Effect of Prunus Amygdalus Amara on the Expression of some Genes of Apoptosis and Immortality in Breast Cancer Cells (MCF- 7). Current drug research reviews, 14(1), 73–79. https://doi.org/10.2174/2589977513666211202094433
  4. Shalayel, M. H. F., Al-Mazaideh, G. M., Alanezi, A. A., Almuqati, A. F., & Alotaibi, M. (2023). The Potential Anti-Cancerous Activity of Prunus amygdalus var. amara Extract. Processes, 11(4), 1277. https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11041277
  5. Barakat, H., Aljutaily, T., Almujaydil, M. S., Algheshairy, R. M., Alhomaid, R. M., Almutairi, A. S., Alshimali, S. I., & Abdellatif, A. A. H. (2022). Amygdalin: A Review on Its Characteristics, Antioxidant Potential, Gastrointestinal Microbiota Intervention, Anticancer Therapeutic and Mechanisms, Toxicity, and Encapsulation. Biomolecules, 12(10), 1514. https://doi.org/10.3390/biom12101514
  6. Declair V. (1997). The usefulness of topical application of essential fatty acids (EFA) to prevent pressure ulcers. Ostomy/wound management, 43(5), 48–54.