Citrus aurantium
Bitter orange can be found throughout the world including in Africa, Asia, the Mediterranean region, as well as North America. It is used in various foods, make-up, and aromatic products. The oil from the tree leaves is called petitgrain, and the oil from the flowers is called neroli.
This herb is used in traditional Chinese medicine and in Amazonian medicine for gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, constipation, heartburn, indigestion, and loss of appetite. It is also used for other purposes such as nasal congestion and weight management.
When used topically, it has been used to treat pain, bruises, bedsores, and fungal infections such as athlete’s foot.
Your health care provider may have recommended this product for other conditions. Contact a health care provider if you have questions.
This herb is used in traditional Chinese medicine and in Amazonian medicine for gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, constipation, heartburn, indigestion, and loss of appetite. It is also used for other purposes such as nasal congestion and weight management.
When used topically, it has been used to treat pain, bruises, bedsores, and fungal infections such as athlete’s foot.
Your health care provider may have recommended this product for other conditions. Contact a health care provider if you have questions.
Use of bitter orange is not supported by scientific evidence.
Bitter orange extract contains a chemical called synephrine (a chemical similar to ephedra) and can cause increases in blood pressure and heart rate resulting in heart attacks and strokes, particularly when taken by mouth with caffeine and/or other stimulants. When used on the skin, bitter orange can cause irritation.
Bitter orange can interact with a class of medications called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, selegiline), causing increased blood pressure. It can decrease blood sugar levels, particularly when taken with other diabetes medications (e.g., metformin).
Bitter orange can increase the levels of certain groups of medications processed by the liver. It can also interact with the following:
If you are taking any of these medications or herbal products, talk to your health care provider before using bitter orange.
Bitter orange should not be used by people who:
In addition, it should not be taken for at least 2 weeks prior to surgery as it can interfere with heart rate and blood pressure control.
Bitter orange oil used on the skin may increase the risk of sunburn, particularly in light-skinned people.
Before taking any new medications, including natural health products, speak to your physician, pharmacist, or other health care provider. Tell your health care provider about any natural health products you may be taking.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2020. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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