Bitter almonds are the seeds of the bitter almond tree, which is a variety of the almond tree. Unlike sweet almonds, bitter almonds contain a compound called amygdalin, which can release cyanide when metabolized. Consuming even a small amount of bitter almonds can lead to cyanide poisoning, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, respiratory failure. Due to their toxicity, bitter almonds are not typically sold raw for consumption. Instead, they are often processed to remove the harmful compounds, and their oil is used in flavoring and perfumes. It is essential to distinguish between bitter and sweet almonds to avoid health risks.