Is boiling loquat kernels toxic

Boiling loquat seeds in water may contain trace toxicity and is not recommended for direct consumption. Loquat kernels contain a small amount of cyanide glycosides, which may be converted into hydrogen cyanide under specific conditions. Excessive intake may cause discomfort. The cyanide glycosides in loquat kernels may partially decompose during high-temperature cooking, but their potential risks cannot be completely eliminated. A small amount of accidental drinking may not immediately cause obvious symptoms, but long-term or excessive intake may lead to mild toxic reactions such as dizziness and vomiting. Although traditional folk remedies include the use of boiling loquat seeds with water to relieve cough, modern medicine has confirmed that its effectiveness is limited and there are safety hazards. If loquat kernels are used directly without professional processing, their toxicity risk will significantly increase. Children, pregnant women, or physically weak individuals are more susceptible to the effects of cyanide metabolites and may experience serious symptoms such as difficulty breathing. Some vendors may increase the amount of loquat kernels used to enhance the cough suppressant effect, further increasing the probability of poisoning.

It is recommended to choose loquat preparations purchased from regular pharmacies instead of homemade loquat seed water, such as loquat cough syrup and other finished drugs. Fresh loquat fruit pulp or boiled loquat leaves can be consumed for daily coughing, and its active ingredients are safer and more controllable. If symptoms such as numbness in the lips occur after accidentally drinking loquat seed water, seek medical attention immediately to avoid processing and consuming seed based ingredients at will and ensure food safety.