Almonds of different varieties are renowned for their distinctive flavor and potential health advantages. The pharmacological activities and distinctive flavor of bitter almonds (Prunus dulcis var. amara) are due to the cyanogenic glycoside amygdalin.
An in-depth analysis of the nature, health advantages, recommended dosage, adverse effects, possible drug interactions, and most ethical applications of bitter almonds as a nutritional supplement are the goals of this article. The article will also go into great length about the chemistry of bitter almonds as well as the physiological processes through which they affect the body and the brain.
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Bitter Almond: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Drug Interactions, and Other Important Information is an original (NootropicsPlanet) article.
Nature of Bitter Almond
The bitter almond is a member of the Rosaceae family and is indigenous to Western Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean region. Fixed oil, protein, and amygdalin are the bitter almond’s three main chemical components.
The latter gives bitter almonds their bitter flavor and is the primary chemical behind its pharmacological effects. Amygdalin is a cyanogenic glycoside that can be enzymatically hydrolyzed by glucosidase to produce glucose, benzaldehyde, and hydrogen cyanide (HCN).
It is crucial to keep in mind that consuming bitter almonds raw can potentially be poisonous due to the presence of HCN.
Health Benefits of Bitter Almond
For its numerous health advantages, including analgesic, antispasmodic, and antitussive effects, bitter almonds have been used for centuries. Recent scientific studies have identified numerous health advantages of bitter almond and its components, including:
- Antioxidant activity: Flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins are just a few of the phenolic chemicals that the bitter almond is high in. By scavenging free radicals and decreasing oxidative stress, these substances demonstrate antioxidant characteristics that lower the risk of chronic illnesses like cancer and cardiovascular disease.
- Antibacterial action: The amygdalin derivative benzaldehyde has shown antibacterial activity against a variety of pathogens, including both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria as well as fungi. The rupture of the cell membrane and suppression of vital enzymes in the microbes are responsible for the bitter almond’s antimicrobial effects.
- Anticancer activity: Research has shown that amygdalin and its derivatives, such as mandelonitrile, can have anticancer effects by inducing apoptosis in cancer cell lines, preventing cancer cell growth, and decreasing angiogenesis.
- Anti-inflammatory activity: The phenolic chemicals in bitter almonds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammatory mediators including tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-B) are modulated by these substances, which lessen inflammation and alleviate illnesses like arthritis.
Chemistry of Bitter Almond
Bitter almond contains amygdalin, a cyanogenic glycoside that is chemically different from that of sweet almonds. Two glucose molecules, one benzaldehyde molecule, and one hydrogen cyanide molecule make up the chemical compound amygdalin (C_20H_27NO_11). The benzene ring of amygdalin has a nitrile group (-CN) linked to it, defining it as a cyanohydrin.
The bitter almond also includes phenolic components (flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins), vitamins (particularly vitamin E), minerals, and fatty acids (mostly oleic and linoleic acids), in addition to amygdalin. These ingredients help explain why consuming bitter almonds as a supplement is good for your health.
Physiological Mechanisms of Action of Bitter Almond
The three primary categories of mechanisms for bitter almonds are the enzymatic hydrolysis of amygdalin, antioxidant activity, and signaling pathway regulation.
- Amygdalin is enzymatically hydrolyzed in the gastrointestinal system after ingestion by the enzyme glucosidase also known as emulsin. Glucose, benzaldehyde, and hydrogen cyanide (HCN) are all released during this process. The characteristic bitter taste is caused by benzaldehyde, which also has antibacterial properties. HCN, on the other hand, when eaten in large amounts, can result in cyanide poisoning.
- Phenolic components in bitter almonds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins, have strong antioxidant properties. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals are scavenged by them, reducing oxidative stress and subsequent cellular damage. This antioxidant effect supports the bitter almond’s potential health advantages, which include lowering the risk of chronic conditions like cancer and cardiovascular disease.
The bioactive substances in bitter almonds have the ability to alter signaling pathways that are involved in apoptosis, cell proliferation, and inflammation. A crucial transcription factor involved in the control of immunological and inflammatory responses, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-B) can be inhibited by the chemicals produced by bitter almonds.
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are two examples of inflammatory mediators that are suppressed as a result of this inhibition. In conclusion, the intricate interaction between the bitter almond’s bioactive components and many cellular and molecular processes can be linked to the physiological modes of action of this nut.
A variety of health advantages are produced because of this interaction, including antioxidant, antibacterial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is essential to consume bitter almonds responsibly and within the recommended dosage ranges due to the potential toxicity linked to amygdalin hydrolysis.
Optimal Dosage of Bitter Almond
Age, body weight, and the intended therapeutic use all affect the ideal dosage of bitter almonds as a nutritional supplement. Typically, bitter almond oil is taken orally in the form of capsules or in cooking to flavor food.
Adults typically take between 100 and 300 mg of amygdalin per day, however, children should take a lesser dose based on their body weight and with a doctor’s advice. To prevent potential toxicity brought on by excessive use, it is essential to take bitter almonds as directed and get medical advice before using them.
Side Effects of Bitter Almond
Cyanide poisoning is the main worry when eating bitter almonds. Hydrogen cyanide (HCN), which is created when amygdalin is hydrolyzed can cause symptoms like headaches, nausea, vomiting, fast breathing, and even death in extreme circumstances.
So it’s important to eat bitter almond in its processed form, which contains less amygdalin.Consuming bitter almonds can also cause allergic reactions, particularly in people who already have a confirmed allergy to almonds or other Rosacea family members.
Hives, swelling, breathing problems, and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis are some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Bitter almonds should not be consumed by pregnant or nursing women because there is no data to support their safety.
Potential Substance Interactions with Bitter Almond
As a dietary supplement, bitter almonds may interact with specific drugs or other supplements, either reducing their effectiveness or raising the possibility of negative side effects. These exchanges could involve:
- Antihypertensive drugs: Bitter almond has a hypotensive effect that might enhance the effects of antihypertensive medications, resulting in abnormally low blood pressure. Before taking supplements containing bitter almonds, patients who are using antihypertensive drugs should speak with a healthcare provider.
- Anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications: Warfarin and aspirin, two common anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs, may not work as well as they should when taken with bitter almonds because of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities of the bitter almond. This could result in an increased risk of bleeding. Before using bitter almonds in conjunction with these drugs, it is advisable to speak with a healthcare provider.
- Substrates for cytochrome P450 enzymes: Cytochrome P450 enzymes are essential for the metabolism of drugs, and bitter almonds may interact with them. Therefore, taking bitter almonds could affect how well and how safely these enzymes metabolize medications. Statins, calcium channel blockers, and benzodiazepines are a few examples of such medications that involve cytochrome P450 in their metabolizing pathways.
Best Responsible Uses of Bitter Almond
Follow these responsible usage recommendations to make sure that bitter almond is used as a dietary supplement safely and effectively:
- Select processed bitter almond goods: It is essential to choose processed products with lower amygdalin contents. Raw bitter almond kernels are less safe to eat than processed bitter almond oil or extracts.
- Adhere to the dose advice: To reduce the danger linked to the consumption of bitter almonds, it is crucial to follow the dosage recommendations. Speak with a healthcare expert to know the proper dosage depending on personal characteristics including age, body weight, and intended therapeutic purpose.
- Be mindful of potential interactions: Before taking bitter almonds as a dietary supplement, speak with a doctor about possible interactions with any prescription drugs or additional supplements you may be taking.
- Keep an eye out for side effects: If you consume bitter almonds and experience any side effects, such as headaches, nausea, or allergic responses, you should be aware of them. If you encounter any negative effects, stop using and seek immediate medical advice.
Bitter Almond:
Conclusion
In conclusion, bitter almonds stand out as a versatile supplement offering high antioxidant activity, antibacterial action, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activity. Bitter almonds can have various health contributions due to their bioactive components which are amygdalin and some phenolic chemicals.
These compounds play a role in regulating body metabolism and reducing oxidative stress build-up. Whether consumed as a whole food or incorporated into bitter almond-based supplements, the potential advantages of bitter almonds extend beyond mere nutrition.
Preliminary research suggests promising health outcomes, but you need to approach almond supplementation with mindfulness. Seeking professional advice from healthcare experts to ensure you are well-informed before incorporating it into your health regimen.
References:
- Almonds (Prunus Dulcis Mill. D. A. Webb): A Source of Nutrients and Health-Promoting Compounds. Retrieved from:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32121549/#:~:text=Clinical%20studies%20have%20verified%20the,the%20prebiotic%20potential%20of%20almonds.
- Health Benefits of Almonds Beyond Cholesterol Reduction. Retrieved from:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22296169/
- A Comprehensive Review of Almond Clinical Trials on Weight Measures, Metabolic Health Biomarkers and Outcomes, and The Gut Microbiota. Retrieved from:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34201139/
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
