The Effects of Citrus Aurantium

Citrus aurantium, or bitter orange, is a small citrus fruit native to southeast Asia. The extract of this fruit is believed to aid with weight loss through suppressing appetite and helping the body burn fat. Widely used in Chinese medicine, citrus aurantium is also thought to settle the stomach and clear congestion, along with curing a host of other ailments. Since bitter orange contains a stimulant, some proponents of natural remedies recommend consulting your doctor before using any product containing it.

Promotes Weight Loss

• The juice of bitter oranges contains synephrine, a chemical that stimulates the central nervous system. According to the Real Solutions Mag website, synephrine is a bit like ephedra (an amphetamine-like chemical formerly found in a lot of weight-loss and performance products). Ephedra's side effects--significantly increased blood pressure and heart rate--caused the FDA to ban it in 2004. Even though the ban was lifted in 2005, the FDA still warns consumers against it. Synephrine has been hailed as the successor to ephedra, because it provides similar benefits without such serious side effects.

  According to a clinical study conducted at St. Cloud University in Colorado in January 2006, "acute CA [citrus aurantium] ingestion did not lead to increased cardiovascular stress and that fat oxidation increased in certain populations."

  Proponents of weight loss and total body health, however, seem divided on whether bitter orange is effective for dropping unwanted pounds. Bodybuildingforyou.com cites several studies that offer evidence for synephrine (the active ingredient in citrus aurantium) stimulating weight loss. The site also offers the caveat, however, that individuals interested in losing weight should remember healthy debate exists on the subject.

Increases Heart Rate

• Some medical professionals recommend caution when using products containing citrus aurantium extract. The website of Dr. Ray Sahelian advises that bitter orange can raise body temperature, as well as increase heart rate if you ingest large amounts.

  According to the Hub Pages website, ingesting bitter orange can lead to perspiring, dizziness, and irregular heartbeat. Bodybuildingforyou.com offers evidence for isolated cases of stroke and cardiac arrest attributed to diet pills containing large doses of citrus aurantium.

Other Effects

• Citrus aurantium has been used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. The Chinese use bitter orange extract as a liver tonic and digestive aid, as well as a way to purify the blood. It is also reputed to help with hair loss, fatigue, insomnia, and anxiety.

  Most sources recommend, however, that you consult a physician before using any product containing citrus aurantium, especially if you have high blood pressure or a history of heart disease.