Amygdalin

Description

Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glycoside naturally found in the seeds of Prunus species, including apricots, bitter almonds, peaches, plums, cherries, and apples. Structurally, it is composed of benzaldehyde, hydrogen cyanide (bound in glycosidic form), and two sugar molecules (gentiobiose).

Upon enzymatic hydrolysis, amygdalin can yield hydrogen cyanide (HCN), which accounts for its known toxicity in high doses. Amygdalin gained controversial attention in the 1970s when it was promoted under the name Laetrile (often mischaracterized as “vitamin B17”) as an alternative cancer therapy. However, multiple clinical studies and reviews—including a 2015 Cochrane analysis—have found no reliable evidence for its anticancer efficacy, while highlighting the risk of cyanide poisoning in humans [Cochrane, 2015].

Despite its risks, amygdalin continues to be studied in vitro for potential anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and cytotoxic effects on cancer cells, though such findings are not validated clinically. Use in any setting should be approached with caution due to its narrow safety margin.

⚠️ Note: Amygdalin can release toxic cyanide. This product is for research purposes only. Not for human or veterinary use.

• CAS: 29883-15-6
• Molar Mass: 457.43 g/mol
• Chemical Formula: C₂₀H₂₇NO₁₁
• Storage: Store tightly sealed at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture.
• Purity: ≥ 98% (NMR)
• Quantity: 15 g powder