Many people might know about the alleged miracle/controversy named laetrile – also called vitamin B17 or amygdalen. The substance is mainly found in apricot kernels. There are traces of laetrile in red raspberries, black raspberries, strawberries, cashew nuts, macadamia nuts, grape seeds, peach kernels, bean sprouts and lima beans. All naturally found - so, what’s the fuss?

Firstly – the pros. Many distinguished doctors have been involved in the research, promotion and administration of laetrile. Drs Nieper, Navarro, Bouziane, Contreras, Richardson, Maisin, Guidetti, Sakai, Burk, Morrone and Krebs – all specialists in the field of cancer, have successfully (or less successfully) stood their ground about the miracle healing powers of laetrile. Their claim is that the use of laetrile – in the beginning phase of cancer – is safe and effective. (Apparently there are over 26 published medical reports claiming the benefits of the use of this substance in 1000’s of cases) It is said that laetrile lowers blood pressure, causes weight gain, maintains healthy appetite, raises the haemoglobin red blood cell count, and has a merciful pain control effect – all positive attributes in cancer. Also being a powerful immune booster – for overall health, laetrile has become popular in certain communities. In 1953 Drs. McDonald and Garland announced that laetrile can’t cure cancer, but they are also the same people that claimed that tobacco is harmless!!

Then, there are the very definite cons in the use of laetrile. Importantly – the National Cancer Institute of the US is against it, and it has not been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. In fact, websites selling apricot kernels are being shut down! The reason for these institutions being against the use of laetrile is because of the cyanide being present in apricot kernels. The use of laetrile/amygdalen together with high doses of vitamin C can surely cause death! Cyanide, being extremely toxic – can obviously only harm human beings. Steve McQueen, who went to Mexico for this ‘miracle treatment’ unfortunately died, evidently due to a cyanide overdose. He used amygdalin – the natural substance. (Laetrile has different chemical compounds, is semi-synthetic, and manufactured by man.) Also the well-known Dr. Burk – who was a cancer specialist and very ‘pro’ laetrile, passed away after his treatment.

The pro-laetrile group will claim that the patients who died after the use of laetrile were in a ‘too advanced’ stage of cancer to start using it. Those against the use, says it is because of the cyanide that they passed away. Deeming laetrile a cure or a hoax, is like treading on eggs. Not being a consensus medicine, very few doctors will treat their patients with laetrile/amygdalen/vitB17 – but some might (although it not being ‘legal’.)

Your life is of utmost importance. When in doubt - always consult your doctor, do your homework, and listen to your gut!