Abstract

BITTER ALMOND (PRUNUS AMYGDALUS VAR. AMARA): A REVIEW ON TRADITIONAL USES, NUTRITIONAL VALUE AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

Salma, Yasmeen Shamsi, Sadia Nikhat and Mateen Ahmad*

ABSTRACT

Bitter almond is the kernel of a popular medicinal plant Prunus amygdalus var amara, which has been used to prevent and cure diseases since many centuries. Bitter almond essential oil is used in cosmetics for various skin issues. Bitter Almond has been traditionally used for melasma, dark spots of skin, and some other skin problems like fungal infections, urticaria, dry itching, dandruff, acne, hair loss, for healing wounds, haemorrhoids and as analgesic in joint pains. The kernel is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids and phenolic acids. Major pharmacological properties of bitter almond include antioxidant, anti-tumour, anti-microbial, and use for prevention of stretch marks during and after pregnancy. Anti-cancer activity of bitter almond is due to presence of amygdalin compound. However, in high doses, bitter almond, especially its oil can cause cyanide poisoning and which may lead to various complications such as sudden headache, dizziness, vomiting, bradycardia, seizure, and even coma. This article reviews its traditional uses, phytochemical compounds, and therapeutic actions of bitter almond.

Keywords: Bitter almond, Prunus amygdalus var. amara, amygdalin, traditional uses, antioxidant, Melasma.