It is unlikely that ingesting entire cherry pits will be harmful. It is possible to make hydrogen cyanide by chewing the pits, though. If you accidentally chew and swallow many pits, you may get symptoms such as headaches, convulsions, and breathing difficulties.
When you swallow a cherry pit, it goes through your esophagus on its way to your stomach, just like any other meal. According to the National Capital Poison Center, unlike the fruit flesh, cherry pits are indigestible and will travel through your system entire and undamaged (NCPC).
Is it safe to swallow cherry seeds?
Apart from the fact that it can cause choking, they are rather safe to consume. Because there is cyanide contained within the shell of a cherry pit – as well as apple seeds – when the body dissolves the pit, it transforms into an amygdaling, which is a naturally occurring source of cyanide.
