Apricot-kernel (Xing-ren) – The Herb Used in Traditional Systems to Support Normal Lung Function and Cough ReliefApricot-kernel (Xing-ren), also known as "Apricot Kernel" or "Bitter Almond," is the traditional Chinese name for the dried seeds of Prunus armeniaca (apricot), a bitter seed from the stone fruit family that has been part of traditional Chinese herbal systems for over 2000 years. This warm, bitter herb is particularly known for its ability to support normal lung function, relieve normal cough, restore normal fluid balance in airways, promote normal bowel movements and maintain normal respiratory comfort – making it an ideal choice for people with a tendency toward normal cough (both dry and with phlegm), normal asthma symptoms and normal constipation.CAUTION: AMYGDALIN CONTENT – DOSAGE CRITICALApricot-kernel (Xing-ren) contains amygdalin (cyanogenic glycoside), which can be converted to hydrogen cyanide in the body. This is an important distinction:Safe use: Traditional dosage 3–9g per formula (well regulated)NEVER eat independently without professional guidanceNEVER overdose: Overdosage can be toxicALWAYS professionally regulated useTraditional Understanding in TCM SystemsWithin traditional Chinese medicine, apricot-kernel (Xing-ren) is described as a warm, bitter herb with slightly penetrating character. In the TCM theoretical framework, it acts on the so‑called Lung and Large Intestine meridians. According to this traditional description, apricot-kernel (Xing-ren) primarily supports normal "Lung function," helps "relieve normal cough and shortness of breath," "restore normal fluid balance in airways" and "promote normal bowel movements" – crucial TCM concepts for normal respiratory health and normal digestion.Apricot-kernel (Xing-ren) is seen in TCM as a "lung-moistening and cough-relieving herb" – one of the classical herbs for normal cough relief. It is traditionally used to promote normal respiratory health, support normal lung comfort, ease normal cough, regulate normal phlegm production and promote normal bowel movements.Special Property: Moistening and DescendingApricot-kernel (Xing-ren) distinguishes itself by its ability to both moisten the airways and move Qi downward. This moistening character means it not only relieves normal cough, but also restores normal fluid balance in airways.Botanical Composition and Research (WITH CAUTION)Apricot-kernel (Xing-ren) contains over 50 bioactive compounds, of which the main ones are:Amygdalin (cyanogenic glycoside – characteristic component, 2–3% of dry weight)Prunasin (related cyanogenic glycoside)Fats and oils (oleic and linoleic acid – 40–55%)Proteins and amino acidsPolyphenols and flavonoidsEssential oilsCRITICAL: Amygdalin is cytostatic (can affect cell growth) in high doses. Traditional TCM dosage (3–9g) is SAFE due to low amygdalin content, but overdosing is DANGEROUS.Modern scientific research shows that apricot-kernel (Xing-ren) components (with careful dosage) can offer benefits:Normal cough relief: Studies show that amygdalin in low doses can influence normal cough centers and reduce normal cough reflex – likely the classical TCM action.Normal fluid balance support: Fats and oils can support normal fluid balance in airways.Normal bowel movements: Lipids can have normal laxative action – traditionally known.Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties: Polyphenols can support normal inflammation balance.WARNING: Amygdalin toxicity: In high doses, amygdalin can form hydrogen cyanide – NEVER use independently.Traditional Applications – TCM Context (PROFESSIONAL USE ONLY)In traditional TCM formulas, apricot-kernel (Xing-ren) is classically used in situations described as:Normal dry cough or normal cough with phlegm deficiencyNormal asthma symptoms or normal chest tightnessNormal bronchitis or normal respiratory discomfortNormal cough caused by normal heat or normal cold (both types)Normal fluid deficiency in airwaysNormal constipation with dryness characterNormal flu-like coughNormal chronic cough with fluid deficiencyThese are traditionalist descriptions that form part of the TCM thinking system and must not be equated with medical diagnoses in the sense of European medicinal product law.Warm and Moistening CharacterApricot-kernel (Xing-ren) is traditionally seen as a "warm" and "moistening" herb – which effectively addresses normal cough with fluid-deficiency character. This makes it particularly suitable for people with a tendency toward normal dry cough.Classical Formula: Xing Su SanA famous classical application is in the formula "Xing Su San" (Apricot Kernel and Perilla Leaf Powder), traditionally used for over 800 years for normal flu-like cough and normal bronchus discomfort. This very famous formula contains apricot-kernel (Xing-ren) as a core ingredient.Other Classical Formulas:Gui Zhi Jia Hou Pu Xing Ren Tang: for normal asthma and normal weak body weakness-coughMa Xing Gan Shi Tang: for normal cough and normal shortness of breathSha Shen Mai Dong Tang (can contain apricot-kernel (Xing-ren): for normal dry coughCAUTION: AMYGDALIN CONTENTApricot-kernel (Xing-ren) must NOT be used by:Individuals consuming more than 9g per day (toxicity risk)Pregnant women (without professional guidance)Infants or very young children (without professional guidance)Individuals on certain medications without professional supervisionPROFESSIONAL USE ESSENTIAL – NEVER EAT INDEPENDENTLYSeasonality and Daily UseApricot-kernel (Xing-ren) is traditionally NOT recommended for independent daily use, but ALWAYS as part of professional TCM formulas in controlled dosage.Well-being and Daily UseApricot-kernel (Xing-ren) is valued by modern users ONLY as part of professional TCM formulas for normal cough relief and normal respiratory health. This herb is NOT suitable for independent daily use without professional guidance.Many users see apricot-kernel (Xing-ren) as part of professional TCM formulas for respiratory health – as an effective, moistening element for normal cough relief, ALWAYS under the guidance of a qualified TCM doctor.Very Safe at Professional Dosage (3–9g)Research shows that apricot-kernel (Xing-ren) is very safe when used in traditional TCM dosage (3–9g per formula under professional supervision). Toxicity problems arise ONLY with overdosing.CRITICAL WARNING FOR THE CONSUMERThis product is a dietary supplement for EXCLUSIVELY professional TCM use.apricot-kernel (XING-REN) MUST NEVER BE CONSUMED INDEPENDENTLY WITHOUT PROFESSIONAL SUPERVISION. This herb contains amygdalin, which can be toxic in high doses.TCM terms such as Lung-Moistening, Cough Relief are system concepts that form part of a traditional thinking system and must not be directly equated with anatomical structures or disease explanations in modern medicine.If you have persistent cough, serious asthma or normal respiratory problems, you should always consult a qualified TCM doctor or medical expert BEFORE using this herb in formulas.CRITICAL: No independent use – professional supervision ESSENTIAL.AMYGDALIN TOXICITY WARNING – NOT FOR SELF-MEDICATION.
