The use of vitamin B17—also known as amygdalin or laetrile—as a potential cancer treatment has sparked curiosity and debate among patients and medical professionals alike. Found naturally in seeds, nuts, and certain fruits, amygdalin is often consumed through supplements or foods like apricot kernels. However, its effectiveness as a cancer therapy remains unproven, and its risks warrant careful consideration.
What Is Vitamin B17?
Amygdalin is a naturally occurring compound found in plants, while laetrile is its synthetic derivative, commonly extracted from apricot kernels. When metabolized, amygdalin releases cyanide, a toxic substance that can pose serious health risks if consumed in excessive amounts.
Claims vs. Scientific Evidence
Advocates of vitamin B17 suggest it can target and destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. Unfortunately, scientific research does not support these claims. Studies in both animals and humans have consistently shown no evidence that amygdalin slows tumor growth or kills cancer cells.
Instead, amygdalin use has been linked to cyanide toxicity, leading health organizations and medical professionals to discourage its use as a treatment for cancer.
Renewed Research Interest
Despite past controversies, recent laboratory studies have explored the potential anti-cancer properties of amygdalin. These findings suggest that amygdalin may:
- Inhibit tumor-promoting viruses
- Regulate cancer-related genes
- Suppress the growth of certain cancer cell lines
- Influence proteins that control cell growth
While these results are intriguing, they are preliminary, and more robust clinical trials are needed to determine whether amygdalin can be safely and effectively used in cancer treatment.
Administering Amygdalin: Risks and Guidelines
If used, amygdalin requires precise dosing to minimize risks. Dosages are typically calculated based on body weight, with intravenous (IV) administration being the preferred method. This avoids the release of cyanide that occurs during digestion when amygdalin is taken orally.
- IV Dosage: 9–15 grams per day
- Oral Dosage: Limited to 1,000–2,000 milligrams per day
Unsupervised use of amygdalin-rich foods, like apricot kernels, significantly increases the risk of cyanide poisoning. Symptoms may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and headaches
- Skin irritation
- Severe outcomes such as liver damage, nerve dysfunction, coma, or even death
The risk is exacerbated when amygdalin is combined with other cyanide-producing foods.
Important Considerations
Patients interested in exploring amygdalin must consult a healthcare provider to:
- Evaluate potential benefits and risks
- Ensure proper dosing and administration
- Avoid harmful interactions with other treatments
It is crucial to avoid unsupervised consumption of apricot kernels or supplements, as the potential for cyanide poisoning is significant.
Conclusion
The use of vitamin B17 as a cancer treatment is not endorsed by the FDA or other regulatory bodies. While recent research offers some insights into its potential, the risks associated with amygdalin far outweigh any unproven benefits.
Patients considering alternative therapies should always prioritize their safety and seek guidance from qualified healthcare professionals. Proper medical supervision is essential to minimize risks and ensure informed decisions about cancer treatment.