Bitter orange is a supplement derived from the fruit and flowers of the Citrus aurantium tree. It has stimulant properties and is frequently marketed as an ephedra substitute for weight loss and energy enhancement. Bitter orange contains synephrine, a stimulant similar to pseudoephedrine. While it can be useful for boosting energy and suppressing appetite, bitter orange is also associated with serious physical and psychological side effects. Being aware of the effects of bitter orange will help consumers make informed choices regarding its use.
Cardiovascular Effects
Like other stimulants, bitter orange speeds processes like heart rate, blood pressure and respiration. According to eMedTV.com, in some people this stimulant effect can trigger arrhythmia, which is any disorder of heart rate; tachycardia,which is an accelerated heart rate; and palpitations, which is a condition of arrhythmia that allows the affected person to sense the irregularity of the heartbeat while it's occurring. These conditions increase the risk for heart attack and stroke. At least one incident of ischemic stroke in an otherwise healthy person has been associated with use of supplements containing bitter orange, according to the National Institutes of Health.
For this reason, people with a history of high blood pressure or heart disease should avoid using bitter orange products. Taking it with other stimulants like caffeine may increase the risk for dangerous cardiovascular effects.
Weight Loss
Bitter orange may be useful for short-term weight loss in some instances. In addition to its appetite suppressant effects, bitter orange acts as a thermogenic agent, speeding metabolism to help the body burn calories more efficiently. According to the National Institutes of Health, bitter orange is an effective thermogenic alternative to ephedra for aiding weight loss.
Despite its efficacy in the short term, bitter orange is likely a poor candidate for long-term use due to its side effect profile. A healthy diet in combination with regular exercise is the safest method for achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight.
Energy/Stimulation
Like ephedra, bitter orange is sometimes marketed as an energy-enhancing supplement. By constricting blood vessels and speeding blood flow to organs like the brain and heart, bitter orange causes feelings of increased energy, focus and alertness in users. Subjective improvements in physical stamina, mood and concentration may also occur with the use of synephrine and drugs like it.
As with caffeine and other stimulants, overstimulation of the central nervous system can also occur. According to Drug Information Online, insomnia, anxiety, restlessness and hallucinations are possible side effects of bitter orange and other synephrine-containing products.
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