Cherry pits, like the seeds of other stone fruits, contain a compound that can be converted into a toxic substance within the body. These pits belong to the Prunus genus, which includes peaches, plums, and apricots. While the fruit is safe, the hard kernel inside the pit is the source of potential toxicity. Understanding the specific mechanics of this threat helps assess the real-world danger of swallowing a cherry pit.
The Chemical Threat: Amygdalin and Cyanide
The toxic compound found within cherry pits is amygdalin, a naturally occurring cyanogenic glycoside. Amygdalin is largely harmless until it is chemically broken down. It is stored within the pit’s kernel as a defense mechanism.
The danger arises because amygdalin yields hydrogen cyanide (HCN) when processed by the body. Cyanide is a fast-acting poison that interferes with cellular respiration by inhibiting the enzyme cytochrome oxidase. This disruption prevents cells from using oxygen, causing rapid damage to oxygen-dependent organs like the brain and heart.
The concentration of amygdalin varies significantly depending on the specific type of cherry, the size of the pit, and the ripeness of the fruit. Ingesting enough cyanide could potentially overwhelm the body’s natural detoxification capacity.
Release Mechanism: Why Crushing Matters
The conversion of amygdalin into toxic hydrogen cyanide requires a specific biochemical reaction. Amygdalin and the necessary enzymes, such as beta-glucosidase, are stored separately within the kernel. The hard outer shell keeps these components apart and protects the kernel from normal digestive processes.
Toxicity occurs only when the pit is crushed, chewed, or ground, breaching the protective barrier and allowing the enzyme and amygdalin to mix. This combination initiates enzymatic hydrolysis, which breaks down the amygdalin and releases hydrogen cyanide gas.
Swallowing a whole, intact cherry pit presents a very low risk of chemical release. The hard shell is resistant to being cracked by human teeth or dissolved by stomach acid, meaning the pit typically passes through the digestive tract undigested. If the pit is thoroughly chewed, however, the toxic compounds are immediately released and absorbed, creating a much higher risk of poisoning.
Physical Hazards of Swallowing Pits Whole
The non-chemical dangers of swallowing a cherry pit are primarily physical, especially for individuals with smaller airways or digestive systems. The most acute risk is the potential for a whole pit to become a choking hazard. This danger is relevant for young children or elderly persons who may have difficulty swallowing.
If a pit is accidentally inhaled, it can obstruct the airway, requiring immediate intervention. A single swallowed pit is unlikely to cause issues because it is indigestible and typically passes through the intestines harmlessly. The pit’s hard, smooth exterior allows it to move through the bowel without being absorbed.
A rare physical hazard involves swallowing many pits over a short time. In sufficient quantity, the pits could cause an intestinal obstruction or blockage. This mechanical issue can lead to symptoms like pain, nausea, or constipation and may require medical attention.
Assessing the Real Danger and What to Do
The real danger from a cherry pit depends entirely on whether it was swallowed whole or chewed. Accidentally swallowing one or two whole pits is not a cause for concern, as they pass intact and release no significant amount of cyanide. Symptoms of acute cyanide poisoning only occur if a significant number of pits are crushed and consumed.
Symptoms of Cyanide Poisoning
Symptoms of acute cyanide poisoning include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Rapid heart rate
More severe symptoms can progress to difficulty breathing, confusion, and loss of consciousness. Toxicity is not expected from a few accidentally chewed pits, though the exact toxic number varies based on pit size and body weight. If pits were chewed, or if severe symptoms like vomiting, confusion, or difficulty breathing appear, immediate medical attention is necessary. Contacting a poison control center provides the best guidance. Always spit out and discard cherry pits to eliminate both the chemical and physical risks.