An apple a day keeps the doctor away. But what about the seeds?

What happens if you swallow apple seeds?

Swallowing a few apple seeds is generally fine. Although they contain a compound that the body can convert to cyanide, the amount is so small that you won’t be at risk unless you deliberately chew and swallow a large quantity.

Are apple seeds poisonous? Do they contain cyanide?

Apple seeds contain amygdalin, which the body breaks down into cyanide. Apple seeds release approximately 0.6 mg of hydrogen cyanide per gram. Cyanide prevents cells from using oxygen. Symptoms of cyanide poisoning include headache, difficulty breathing, fainting, seizures, coma, and cardiovascular collapse. Symptoms may be delayed because the body needs time to convert amygdalin to cyanide.

How many apple seeds can you safely swallow?

The amount of amygdalin in apple seeds is very low, so you would need to swallow many seeds to experience cyanide poisoning. You can safely swallow the number of apple seeds typically present in the core of an apple. The seeds are protected by a hard outer shell. You would need to chew or grind hundreds of seeds and swallow them to release enough hydrogen cyanide to cause toxicity. There is a reported case of death in an adult who chewed and swallowed a cupful of apple seeds.

Do apple seeds have any health benefits?

Apple seed oil contains essential fatty acids, vitamins including vitamin E, and antioxidants. It can be beneficial for skin, hair and nails. On skin it moisturizes, reduces redness and inflammation, reduces wrinkles, and protects the skin from sun. Both its antioxidant effect and enhanced collagen production reduce signs of aging.  It moisturizes and strengthens hair. It can be massaged into nails to increase their strength.

Amygdalin was once promoted as a cancer treatment. Clinical trials found no evidence it works, and it carries a real risk of cyanide toxicity. Its use as a cancer treatment is banned in the US.

What should I do if someone swallows apple seeds?

If someone unintentionally swallows a few apple seeds, there is no need to do anything. If someone ingests a large amount of apple seeds, they are at risk for cyanide poisoning and should be treated in a hospital. If someone swallows apples seeds, or if you have a question about the safety of ingesting apple seeds, use the webPOISONCONTROL online tool to get immediate help, or call your poison center at 1-800-222-1222. Whether online or by phone, expert guidance is always free, confidential, and available 24 hours a day.