Amygdalin Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฐ
amygdalin
[ษหmษชษกdษ(หlษชn) ]
Definition
chemical compound
Amygdalin is a naturally occurring compound found in the seeds of certain fruits, such as apricots, apples, and almonds. It is often associated with the alternative medicine community due to its purported anti-cancer properties. However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, and high doses can be toxic.
Synonyms
B17, laetrile, vitamin B17.
Examples of usage
- Amygdalin is sometimes marketed as a natural cancer treatment.
- The presence of amygdalin in bitter almonds contributes to their toxicity.
- Researchers are studying amygdalin for its potential health benefits.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Health and Medicine
- It was once thought that amygdalin could help treat cancer, leading to its use in alternative medicine.
- In its processed form, amygdalin can release cyanide, a toxic compound, when ingested in large amounts.
Cultural References
- In some cultures, apricot seeds containing this substance are consumed, often as a folk remedy.
- Amygdalin has appeared in numerous health articles, often debated as a cure-all or health fad over the decades.
Science
- When broken down by the body, amygdalin can produce benzaldehyde, which gives almonds their characteristic smell.
- The chemical process that transforms this compound into cyanide involves the enzyme beta-glucosidase.
Nutrition
- Though amygdalin is found in various seeds, itโs mostly present in apricot kernels, which are sometimes marketed as health products.
- Many health organizations warn against the consumption of these kernels due to potential risks associated with cyanide poisoning.
Origin of 'amygdalin'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Greek word 'amygdalon', which means 'almond', reflecting its presence in almond seeds.
- The name reflects the shape of almond kernels, which are similar to the seeds where this chemical is found.
The term 'amygdalin' originates from the Greek word 'amygdalon', which means 'almond'. The compound was first isolated in the early 19th century by French chemist Pierre Robiquet from bitter almonds. Its structure was definitively identified in 1830. Initially, it attracted attention for its use in folk medicine due to its presence in various seeds. The idea that amygdalin could be a cure for cancer emerged in the 20th century, particularly after it was promoted as a non-toxic alternative treatment in the 1950s and 1960s. This led to the term 'laetrile', a synthetic version of amygdalin, becoming widely known. However, scientific studies have largely debunked these claims of efficacy against cancer, and the FDA has not approved it for medical use due to safety concerns, especially regarding its potential to release cyanide when metabolized.