Laetrile, or amygdalin, also referred to as vitamin B17 (even though it is not a vitamin) is an extraction taken from apricot seeds, peach, apple, bean sprouts and other fruit seeds, such as bitter almonds. It has strong anti-oxidant properties, chelation and is used for anti-cancer treatments. Doctors who practice natural medicine refer to B17 as “natural” or “selective” chemotherapy, as it harms only cancer cells without harming regular cells. Interestingly, Laetrile contains a small quantity of cyanide, known to be deadly to man. However, the cyanide it contains comes in a form of Hydrogen Cyanide, which can only be dismantled by an enzyme called Beta-glucosidase that can be found in cancer cells in large quantities, but in a very minimal quantity on healthy cells. This enzyme, found largely in cancer cells, releases the Benzaldahyde and Cyanide from the glucose and creates a targeted poison that kills the cancer cell. Unlike cancer cells, healthy cells contain the enzyme Rhodanese, which neutralizes Benzaldehyde and Hydrogen Cyanide in the B17. Therefore healthy cells stay protected, while cancer cells get damaged. In addition, Laetrile is also known to be effective in restoring the immune system.
Dr. Alvarez from Stella Maris Clinic, Tijuana, explains how B17 works as a natural chemotherapy, aimed against cancer cells:
Laetrile is being used in most clinics in Tijuana, Mexico, as well as in several clinics in Germany, as an essential part of the treatment. It is administered intravenously, intramuscular as well as orally and has shown great effectiveness with treating many different types of cancer. However, laetrile should not be considered as the main treatment for cancer, but as an integral substance combined with the rest of the treatments, such as detox, personalized diet, oxygen enhancement treatments, multivitamins and so on. B17 has not shown any contradiction with other medications or therapies practiced in orthodox medicine; however, it is important to consult with a doctor before taking this supplement, just like with any other supplement or medication.
B17 or Laetrile treatment is one of the most argued treatments for cancer, along with cannabis and other plant based treatments. For further reading and better understanding of the stand for or against B17, please visit WebMed.
Information Source: IBC Brochure.
For further information about how does B17 work, visit here.
