Are apricots a solution for cancer?
The apricot kernel oil has been traditionally used for curing tumors. With this oil, tumors were rubbed to reduce them or neutralize their growth. This treatment was widely used in England until the late seventeenth century.
Today, from the core of the apricot seed and of other Rosaceae, especially of bitter almonds, peaches, or cherries, laetrile or vitamin B17 is obtained, a drug for the treatment of cancer. This vitamin was discovered in 1950 by Ernest Krebs, Jr. who said that cancer is a disease caused by deficiency of vitamin B17.
According to Edward Griffin, as proposed in his books "A World Without Cancer" and "Alive and in Good Health", this deficiency is alleviated with the administration of laetrile. However, according to this author, the administration of this drug has been banned for economic reasons, since it is a drug too easy to obtain and can not be patented.
This medicine has been banned in many countries because, according to some research, it is ineffective and dangerous. Amygdalin laetrile contains a compound in contact with the body produces hydrocyanic acid, commonly known as cyanide. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (United States Office for drug control) there is insufficient evidence to prove the safety of this drug, whereas, according to many studies, there have been many poisonings by ingestion of laetrile. (More information in English)
Despite the ban, in many countries it continues to operate. For example, in the United States was banned in 1980 by the National Cancer Institute and, as it can be administered in Mexico, many terminal patients resort to this solution by travelling to neighboring country. (More information in English) Among the people defending the implementation of laetrile is Ralph Moss, author of numerous books on the subject.
Cough therapy
The gum exuded from the trunk of this tree is rich in mucilage which, according to Pius Font Quer in his renewed "Dioscorides", can be used for the manufacture of an antitussive horchata (sweet drink made from tiger nuts and sugar). According to him this would be the formula:
- Finely chop almonds in a mortar 50 sweet and bitter almonds 6. Add 6 tablespoons sugar and stir well adding water until it forms a compact mass. Drain the water. Add 5 gr. Apricot rubber. (The adult dosage is one tablespoonful every two hours and younger 1 tsp. The same author notes the danger of this treatment and the need not to exceed the dose amygdalin content of bitter almonds)
Despite the possibility of using this treatment is more prudent to use other safer natural preparations for the treatment of cough.
Cosmetic uses of apricots
Apricots are used in cosmetics to make masks for the treatment of abnormalities of the skin, especially in regard to skin care. Its ability to nourish the skin of vitamin A and provide numerous minerals, makes it very suitable for the care of the skin of the face that need extra power. This is done to protect the skin against the appearance of wrinkles and whitening their faces bearing patches on the face caused by sun or age. (See Apricot Mask for wrinkles)
A compendium of vitamins y minerals
Apricot fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals as these should be added as a staple food in our diet.
More information about the apricots in the listing above
Related information: The apricot in the kitchen
