Description

• Several parts of the apricot tree are toxic if ingested. These include wilted leaves, stems and the apricot seed, in its raw state. The stone in the middle of the apricot contains the dangerous seed.
  
  

Chemicals

• Apricot seeds contain two chemicals toxic to humans, amygdalin and cyanogenetic glucosides. Other chemicals found in apricot seeds include laetrile, sometimes used in cancer treatment. This treatment method remains highly controversial, according to North Carolina Cooperative Extension.
  
  

Effects

• Just one of the highly toxic apricot seeds provide sufficient chemicals to cause weakness, shortness of breath, pupil dilation, coma and respiratory failure.
  
  

Preparation

• Boil apricot seeds in water and dry them in the oven for 20 minutes. This detoxifies the apricot seed, making it safe for human consumption.