Where to buy apricot kernels in Namibia?

What is Apricot kernel?

An apricot kernel is the apricot seed located within the fruit endocarp, which forms a hard shell around the seed called the pyrena. The kernel contains amygdalin, a poisonous compound, in concentrations that vary between cultivars

What does apricot kernels do to the body?

Apricot kernels contain the plant toxin amygdalin, which converts to cyanide after eating. Cyanide poisoning can cause nausea, fever, headaches, insomnia, thirst, lethargy, nervousness, joint and muscle aches and pains, and falling blood pressure. In extreme cases, it is fatal.

How do you prepare apricot kernels to eat?

You can safely eat apricot seeds raw. In fact, the Egyptian culture has a traditional snack called dokka, made from crushed apricot seeds mixed with coriander and salt. To eat apricot seeds fresh, slice open an apricot and take out the pit. Once the pit has been taken out, use a nutcracker to crack the pit open.

Are apricot kernels the same as almonds?

Apricot kernels are sometimes confused with bitter almonds. However, the apricot kernels have a slightly grassy taste compared to bitter almonds. More importantly, the sale of these unrefined nuts is not permitted in the U.S. because bitter almonds are potentially poisonous when eaten raw.

What type of cyanide is in apricot kernels?

amygdalin

Apricot kernels naturally contain cyanogenic glycosides, primarily amygdalin, which has the potential to release cyanide when ingested. Small amounts of cyanide can be detoxified by the human body but high exposures over a short duration can result in severe adverse health effects (i.e., cyanide poisoning).