Bitter Apricot Seeds Whole
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Bitter Apricot Seeds Whole (with Skin) (Prunus armeniaca) are the dried kernels traditionally used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) under the name Xìng Rén (杏仁). These seeds are valued for their ability to stop cough, calm wheezing, moisten the intestines, and promote downward movement of Lung qi, making them especially useful for conditions involving dry cough, phlegm congestion, and constipation due to dryness. Their nature is considered bitter, slightly warm, and slightly toxic, giving them a descending and dispersing action.
In TCM, Xing Ren enters the Lung and Large Intestine channels, where it helps direct rebellious Lung qi downward, ease breathing, and relieve cough, particularly when symptoms include wheezing, chest fullness, or thick phlegm. It is traditionally used for both cold-type and heat-type coughs, depending on the accompanying herbs in the formula.
Bitter Apricot Seeds are also valued for their ability to moisten the intestines and support bowel regularity, especially in cases of dry constipation associated with fluid deficiency or dryness in the body. Their natural oil content contributes to their lubricating effect while supporting respiratory moisture.
Modern research shows that Prunus armeniaca kernels contain amygdalin, fatty oils, flavonoids, and antioxidant compounds with documented antitussive, anti-inflammatory, and respiratory-supportive effects. These constituents support their traditional role in lung support, cough relief, and intestinal lubrication.
Each batch of Bitter Apricot Seeds Whole (with Skin) (Prunus armeniaca) is carefully cleaned and dried to preserve their natural brown skin, rich oil content, and characteristic bitter aroma. When properly prepared, they are traditionally used to calm cough, support smooth breathing, moisten dryness, and promote comfortable elimination.
Also Known As: Xing Ren, Bitter Apricot Kernel, Apricot Seed, Semen Armeniacae Amarum
Nutrients: Amygdalin, fatty oils, protein, vitamin E, trace minerals
Notes: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xing Ren is used to descend lung qi, stop cough, calm wheezing, and moisten the intestines. It is commonly applied for cough, asthma, chest congestion, and dryness-related constipation. Bitter and slightly warm in nature, it also has a lubricating effect due to its oil content. The “with skin” (有皮) form is less processed and considered more traditional, with a slightly stronger action. This is the bitter medicinal type (苦杏仁), not the sweet edible almond-like variety, and is used in controlled amounts in decoctions and traditional formulations.
