Functional characteristics of bitter apricot seed kernel

This review summarizes the knowledge regarding the possible benefits of bitter apricot.The apricot fruit belonging to Prunus armeniaca family is classified in three classes on the base of seed taste (sweet, semi bitter and bitter).The bitter apricot seed considered as byproduct, possess high amount of oil that has its specific functions and potentials.It contains sugars, mono and polysaccharides, polyphenols, fatty acids, sterol derivatives, carotenoids, cyanogenic glucosides and volatile compounds.The literature revealed that it can be used as natural bactericidal, fungicidal, antioxidant, anti-parasitical, antitumor agent as it possesses numerous phytochemicals constituents such as phenolic and flavonoid contents (caffeic acids, benzoic acid, p-coumaric, chrysin, pinocembrin, galangin) and other compounds including carotenoids, alkaloids, vitamins, fatty acids.It can be used as natural food preservative and additive.It has applications in pharmaceutical, bakery, food and cosmetic industries.The study was conducted to comprehensively review the traditional uses, phytochemicals properties and medicinal applications of bitter apricot.