Are bitter almonds poisonous? Which part of bitter almonds is poisonous?

Are bitter almonds poisonous? Many people are concerned about this question. Let me tell you the details below.

Are bitter almonds poisonous?

We all know that almonds have high nutritional value, and eating more almonds is very helpful to our body. But can bitter almonds be eaten? Are bitter almonds poisonous? Let's take a look.

The tip and skin of bitter almonds contain toxic components such as hydrocyanic acid.

There is a toxic component in raw almonds called cyanogenic glycosides, which can release the highly toxic component hydrocyanic acid after hydrolysis in the gastrointestinal tract. Hydrocyanic acid can be quickly absorbed and enter the blood circulation, acting on cells in various parts of the human body, making cells unable to breathe normally and tissues generally lacking oxygen. Hydrocyanic acid acts on the respiratory and cardiovascular centers, causing paralysis of these centers and death.

Moreover, due to the high toxicity of hydrogen cyanide, some teenagers may be poisoned if they accidentally eat a grain out of curiosity.

Bitter almond poisoning usually starts about an hour after eating, and mainly manifests as neurotoxic symptoms. Initially, vomiting, nausea, and headaches occur; followed by palpitations, chest tightness, and general fatigue; and finally death often occurs due to respiratory paralysis. In addition to bitter almonds, raw plum kernels and peach kernels can also cause the same poisoning symptoms.

Bitter almond poisoning requires immediate hospitalization

Once bitter almond poisoning is discovered, the patient should be sent to hospital for treatment immediately. If the journey is long, it is best to wash the stomach first. Doctors usually use antidotes such as sodium nitrite and sodium thiosulfate to detoxify, and at the same time perform first aid such as strengthening the heart and stimulating the respiratory center. If treatment is not timely, it may lead to death.