Synephrine and ephedrine are organic compounds that have stimulatory properties when ingested. Both of these compounds are naturally synthesized by plants and have been utilized by Chinese herbalists for centuries to treat a number of ailments. While over-the-counter products containing ephedrine are tightly regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, synephrine-containing supplements are still readily available. Always seek approval from your physician prior to taking anything that contains either synephrine or ephedrine.
Synephrine Effects
Synephrine is the active ingredient in dietary supplements better known as bitter orange or Seville orange. Bitter orange, also called by its Latin name, Citrus aurantium, is native to Asia and Africa and was traditionally used to treat asthma, nausea and constipation. According to the National Center for Complementary Medicine, bitter orange is used for nasal congestion, heartburn and weight loss. When consumed, synephrine mimics natural chemicals in your brain and binds to stimulatory receptors that activate noradrenaline and dopamine release. This action causes an increase in attentiveness, focus, wakefulness and loss of appetite.
Dangers of Synephrine
Due to the stimulatory effects of synephrine, there are many potential health complications associated with synephrine use. According to MayoClinic.com, synephrine may cause an increase in blood pressure, heart rate, dizziness, and fainting. Synephrine may also increase your risk of stroke or heart attack. When synephrine is combined with other stimulants like caffeine, the side effects and complication risks are increased.
Ephedrine Effects
Similar to synephrine, ephedrine is a stimulant that binds to the same receptors in your brain, causing an increase in alertness, wakefulness and increased heart rate. Prior to being banned in dietary supplements by the Food and Drug Administration, ephedrine was heavily marketed and sold as an over-the-counter weight loss aid. According to Drugs.com, ephedrine can only be purchased from your pharmacist in federally regulated products to relieve nasal and chest congestion associated with colds, flu, allergies and asthma.
Dangers of Ephedrine
According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, ephedrine was banned in dietary supplements by the Food and Drug Administration in 2004 It was banned because of the negative side effects that affected the cardiovascular system, including increased blood pressure, heart rate and heart arrhythmias. These side effects were attributed to an increase in the risk of heart attack, stroke and death. Considering the dangers of both synephrine and epinephrine, you should never take anything without first consulting with your doctor about the potential implications for your health
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