Amygdalin, also known as laetrile, is a plant-based chemical that is believed to be able to prevent and treat cancer. However, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), amygdalin use in scientific studies has had little effect in treating cancer.
What is Amygdalin?
Amygdalin is a glycoside (a sugar derivative) found in certain plants including apricot pits, apple seeds, bitter almonds and flax seeds. It may be taken orally, by injection or intravenously. Amygdalin is also referred to as vitamin B17. Russia was the first to use amygdalin in 1845, according to the NCI. During the 1920's the United States also started using amygdalin to treat cancer patients. Because of its lack of effectiveness in treating cancer and its toxic side effects, the United States has banned amygdalin as a cancer treatment. Still, amygdalin is a naturally occurring plant chemical and is also available in Mexico and via the Internet.
Theories about Amygdalin
Amygdalin is considered an "alternative treatment" for cancer patients used along with vitamins in metabolic therapy programs. One theory supposes that cancer cells are high in beta-glucuronidase and low in rhodanese. In this theory, the liver metabolizes amygdalin and beta-glucuronidase breaks down the amygdalin product to form cyanide. Rhodanese converts the toxic cyanide into a harmless thiocyanate. However, in this theory, because the levels of rhodanese and beta-glucuronidase are imbalanced, the cyanide destroys the malignant cells.
Speculation regarding Amygdalin
According to the Jan. 28, 1982, edition of the "New England Journal of Medicine," human clinical trials of amygdalin have shown no benefit or cure for cancer. In fact, amygdalin users are in danger of cyanide poisoning, as amygdalin yields cyanide, a toxic drug. The side effects of amygdalin use are the same as those of cyanide toxicity and include nausea, headache, vomiting and fever.
