Do Apricots Reduce Inflammation? Unpacking the Science and Benefits

November 13, 2025 •

4 min read

Research in animal and lab studies shows that apricot extracts, and particularly the kernels, possess potent anti-inflammatory properties. This evidence supports the idea that apricots reduce inflammation, and suggests potential benefits for combating systemic chronic inflammation in the body.

Quick Summary

Apricots contain powerful antioxidants, like flavonoids and carotenoids, that protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation. Studies suggest the fruit, especially kernel extracts, may alleviate inflammatory conditions such as colitis and neuropathic pain through these compounds.

Key Points

Antioxidant Power: Apricots are rich in potent antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, E, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which neutralize free radicals and combat oxidative stress.
Supports Gut Health: The soluble fiber in apricots feeds beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to a healthier gut microbiome and potentially reducing inflammation associated with poor gut health.
Promising Animal Studies: Research on rats and in vitro tests show that apricot extracts can significantly reduce inflammation related to conditions like ulcerative colitis and neuropathic pain.
Protects Against Chronic Illnesses: By reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, consuming apricots may lower the risk of chronic inflammatory conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain neurological disorders.
Enhances Liver Health: Animal studies indicate that apricots may protect the liver from oxidative damage and inflammation, suggesting potential benefits for liver function.
Kernel Caution: While kernel extracts show promise in research, the kernels contain amygdalin, which can be toxic. Stick to eating the fruit's flesh for safety.

The Anti-Inflammatory Power of Apricots

Apricots are a nutrient-dense fruit known for their vibrant color and sweet, tart flavor. While enjoying fresh or dried apricots is a delicious way to boost your diet, numerous studies also highlight their impressive anti-inflammatory capabilities. This health benefit is primarily attributed to the rich concentration of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds found within the fruit and its kernels. These phytochemicals help neutralize harmful free radicals, protecting cells from the oxidative stress that drives inflammation.

Key Phytochemicals That Reduce Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory effects of apricots stem from a cocktail of powerful plant compounds working in synergy. These phytochemicals not only have antioxidant properties but also directly target inflammatory pathways in the body.

Flavonoids: Apricots are a great source of flavonoids, such as catechin, quercetin, and chlorogenic acids, which have been shown to protect against inflammatory illnesses and strengthen blood vessels. Studies have found a high intake of flavonoids to be associated with significantly lower inflammation scores.
Carotenoids: The orange hue of apricots comes from carotenoids like beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, all of which act as potent antioxidants. They help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress, thereby inhibiting inflammatory reactions.
Phenolic Compounds: Alongside flavonoids, apricots contain various phenolic acids that exhibit strong antioxidant properties. These compounds contribute to the fruit's overall ability to defend the body against degenerative disorders linked to oxidative damage.
Fatty Acids in Kernel Oil: Apricot kernel oil contains beneficial fatty acids like oleic acid (monounsaturated) and linoleic acid (polyunsaturated), which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in research.

Scientific Evidence from Lab and Animal Studies

Scientific research has provided compelling evidence for the anti-inflammatory properties of apricots, particularly from extracts of the fruit and its kernels.

Gastrointestinal Inflammation: Studies on rats with induced ulcerative colitis found that apricot kernel extracts significantly reduced inflammation and ulcers in the colon. The findings suggest that these extracts could be a complementary treatment for inflammatory bowel disorders.
Neuropathic Pain: In another rat study, oral administration of apricot kernel oil was shown to attenuate neuropathic pain. The oil reduced inflammatory markers like IL-1β and TNF-α and decreased oxidative stress, suggesting its potential to manage pain associated with nerve damage.
Liver Protection: Animal studies have indicated that apricots can protect the liver from oxidative stress caused by alcohol ingestion. Their rich antioxidant content appears to help combat inflammation-related liver damage.
In Vitro Activity: Lab studies have confirmed the in vitro anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of various apricot extracts and oils, showing their potential to prevent oxidative damage to cells.

How to Incorporate Apricots into an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Adding apricots to your diet is simple and can be done in various forms, including fresh, dried, or as preserves. It's important to remember that while the fruit offers benefits, highly concentrated extracts were used in many studies. For dietary purposes, a balanced approach with other anti-inflammatory foods is recommended.

Here's a comparison of fresh vs. dried apricots:


Feature	Fresh Apricots	Dried Apricots
Preparation	No special preparation needed; wash and eat.	Often treated with sulfites to preserve color.
Nutrient Density	Lower in concentrated nutrients per serving.	Higher concentration of nutrients, but also sugars and calories.
Glycemic Index	Low, resulting in minimal blood sugar impact.	Still considered low, but with more concentrated sugar.
Fiber Content	A good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber.	High source of soluble fiber, beneficial for cholesterol.
Considerations	The best choice for overall nutrient balance and hydration.	Good for a concentrated nutritional boost but watch for added sugar and sulfites.

Cautions and Considerations

While generally safe for consumption, there are a few important considerations. Apricot kernels contain amygdalin, which can lead to cyanide poisoning if consumed in large quantities. Only eat the fruit's flesh and avoid the kernel inside the pit. Additionally, commercially dried apricots may be treated with sulfites, which can cause issues for sensitive individuals.

Conclusion: A Beneficial Addition to a Healthy Diet

In conclusion, existing research strongly suggests that apricots reduce inflammation and offer significant health benefits. The anti-inflammatory action is primarily driven by powerful phytochemicals like flavonoids and carotenoids, which act as antioxidants. While many definitive studies have been conducted on animal models or with concentrated extracts, the evidence highlights the fruit's potential for human health. Incorporating apricots into a balanced diet rich in other anti-inflammatory foods is a smart strategy to help manage oxidative stress and promote overall wellness.

Disclaimer: Always consult with a healthcare professional before using apricots or their extracts for medicinal purposes. For more information on the specific anti-inflammatory effects of compounds found in fruits, refer to reputable medical journals like those found in the National Institutes of Health's database, for instance, PMC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Apricots contain several key compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, including flavonoids like quercetin and catechin, and carotenoids such as beta-carotene.

Yes, incorporating fresh apricots into your diet can help reduce chronic inflammation. Their high antioxidant content helps combat the oxidative stress that contributes to inflammation over time.

Apricot antioxidants, like flavonoids and carotenoids, fight inflammation by neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body. This process reduces oxidative stress, a primary driver of inflammatory responses.

In animal studies, apricot kernel oil has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, particularly in cases of neuropathic pain. However, consuming the kernel itself is risky due to potential cyanide toxicity.

Both fresh and dried apricots contain beneficial anti-inflammatory compounds. However, dried apricots have a higher concentration of sugar and calories. Some commercially dried versions also contain sulfites, which can negatively impact gut health and overall inflammation.

Animal studies have shown that apricot kernel extracts can help alleviate symptoms of ulcerative colitis, a form of IBD. However, more human research is needed to determine the effects of dietary apricot intake.

Absolutely. Apricots are a great addition to an anti-inflammatory diet, alongside other fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and healthy fats. Their rich antioxidant profile provides strong cellular protection.

No, it is not safe to consume apricot kernels. They contain a compound called amygdalin, which can be converted to cyanide in the body and is poisonous. Anti-inflammatory benefits should be sought from the fruit's flesh and other proven anti-inflammatory foods.