Bitter Almond vs Prunus serotina

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Bitter Almond

Prunus dulcis var. amara

Respiratory

Respiratory

Bitter Almond

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Prunus serotina

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Middle Eastern variety of almond with amygdalin; used historically for cough and as antispasmodic.

North American cherry used by Native Americans for cough, cold, and fever; bark syrup historically popular.

Active Compounds

amygdalin, benzaldehyde, hydrocyanic acid, emulsin, fatty oil

prunasin, benzaldehyde, hydrocyanic acid, tannins, resin, scopoletin

Traditional Uses

Persian cough remedy, Middle Eastern antispasmodic, historical cancer treatment

cough, bronchitis, fever, diarrhea, anxiety

Modern Uses

cough suppressant, antispasmodic

antitussive, antispasmodic, sedative, astringent

Adult Dosage

Extremely limited use - toxic cyanide risk

1-2ml tincture or 1-2g bark daily

Contraindications

internal use (toxic), pregnancy, children - highly toxic

children large doses - cyanogenic, liver disease, pregnancy large doses

Side Effects

cyanide poisoning, death in high doses

cyanide toxicity with overdose

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E