Bitter orange is a chief component in a variety of over-the-counter herbal remedies and dietary supplements for weight loss. It is also used for heartburn, loss of appetite and nasal congestion. In weight loss products, success claims to occur by speeding up the metabolism and controlling hunger, though these claims are uncertain. The products are often marketed as alternatives to ephedra (the dangerous main ingredient in diet products that is now banned by the FDA), though the products may encourage the same risks. According to Melina Jampolis, MD, dietary supplements are often assumed safe because they are not drugs, though this theory is often false and could lead to dangerous use of supplements.
Elevated Heart Rate and Blood Pressure
Citrus aurantium (bitter orange) is similar in structure and function as the once popular ephedra, according to Jampolis. For this reason, it may affect the body in the same way, raising the heart rate and increasing blood pressure. This side effect could pose dangers to healthy individuals as well as those with existing health concerns like hypertension or cardiovascular disease. In addition, products that combine caffeine with bitter orange may have increased risks of these side effects, as caffeine can also elevate the heart rate.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions are another danger posed with consumption of bitter orange and bitter orange products. Adverse reactions can occur with the use of prescription drugs as well as over-the-counter drugs. According to the Mayo Clinic, bitter orange can inhibit metabolism of a host of drugs, escalating the amount of the drug in your body and the risk of harmful effects. In addition, those taking decongestant-containing cold preparations should also avoid taking bitter orange products, as side effects and dangers are increased.
Stoke/Death
Bitter orange may also pose risks for stroke and may even result in death, according to the Mayo Clinic. The chemicals synephrine and octopamine are dangerous ingredients present in bitter orange, which are similar to ephedrine and ephedra. Due to the risks of hypertension and arrhythmias, stroke, heart attack and death may result. In addition, herbal remedies and dietary supplements are not rigorously regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and may contain higher dosages of the active ingredient than assumed and dangerous additives.
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