Bitter orange is an herbal supplement derived from the fruit of the Citrus aurantium tree. In recent years, bitter orange has replaced ephedra as a natural weight loss aid in many over-the-counter supplements. Like ephedra, bitter orange can cause dangerous health effects, including increased heart rate and higher blood pressure. Before taking bitter orange, consult your physician about the risks and benefits of the supplement.
History
Ephedra sinica --- a plant containing the stimulants ephedrine and pseudoephedrine --- was a popular dietary supplement during the 1980s and 1990s. After being linked with serious adverse effects in a number of users, ephedra was banned by the Food and Drug Administration as a dietary supplement in 2004. Since the ban, bitter orange has been marketed by some supplement makers as a legal alternative to ephedra for weight loss, energy enhancement and other purposes.
Uses
Bitter orange has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a remedy for nausea, constipation and indigestion. It also is used as an alternative therapy for nasal congestion, weight loss and heartburn, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Synephrine and octopamine --- the active alkaloids in bitter orange --- have a stimulant effect on the body, raising heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature.
Side Effects/Interactions
Like ephedra, bitter orange can cause a variety of harmful effects. According to Drug Information Online, healthy people have experienced heart attacks, strokes and other serious side effects after taking bitter orange. For this reason, you should avoid bitter orange supplements if you have hypertension or a heart condition. More common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, insomnia and headache. Bitter orange can also cause dangerous interactions with other supplements and drugs, including stimulants, antidepressants, vasoconstrictors and calcium channel blockers.
Safety Considerations
While more information is needed, the available data suggest that bitter orange may be no safer than ephedra. Avoiding or limiting your use of the supplement is the best way to prevent serious health complications. When taking bitter orange, follow dosing directions carefully and don't combine the supplement with caffeine or other stimulants. Consult your doctor before using bitter orange, especially if you suffer from heart disease, high blood pressure or another chronic health condition. If you experience chest pain, blurred vision or other severe side effects, stop taking bitter orange and seek medical attention immediately. These may be signs of a serious condition, such as a heart attack or stroke.
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