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Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract detoxifies, fights against inflammations and vitalizes the skin.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract oil may be used in skin care, especially in the treatment of cellulitis.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract oil may, however, lead to light spots on the skin when sunbathing.
CAS Number: 72968-50-4
EINECS Number: 277-143-2
Synonyms: Orange sour extract, 72968-50-4, Orange,sour,extract, Orange,sour,extract;FEMA 2823;BITTER ORANGE;ORANGE OIL BITTER;ORANGE FLOWER ABSOLUTE;Orange, sour, ext.;CITRUS AURANTIUM AMARA (BITTER ORANGE) FLOWER EXTRACT;CITRUS AURANTIUM AMARA (BITTER ORANGE) PEEL EXTRACT
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract extractives and their physically modified derivatives such as tinctures, concretes, absolutes, essential oils, oleoresins, terpenes, terpene-free fractions, distillates, residues, etc., obtained from Citrus aurantium, Rutaceae.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is grown in Asia and parts of the Mediterranean.
Citrus Aurantium, commonly known as “Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract” is a plant native to Asia.
The citrus fruit is full of vitamins, minerals, and phenolic compounds. Hesperidin, a flavanone glycoside present in bitter orange is full of potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used to promote weight loss; however, its safety and efficacy have not been fully established.
The goals of study were to give an overview of the safety and efficacy of p-synephrine, to systematically evaluate its efficacy regarding weight loss and to assess its safety, focusing on its cardiovascular side effects in a meta-analysis.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract, is a citrus fruit with a multitude of uses.
It’s commonly used in complementary medicine, herbal weight loss supplements, and certain foods and toppings like marmalade.
Thought to have originated in Southeast Asia, Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract’s now found throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, the South Sea Islands, Europe, and Western and Southern Africa.
The bitter orange stems from the Rutaceae family and is native to the Mediterranean area, as well as North and South America.
Its oil that is extracted from the peel using a cold pressing method, has antiseptic, antibacterial and fungicidal properties.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract, is a fruit containing a high level of vitamins.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is becoming popular in weight loss products because of its effects on metabolism.
In fact, it is usually combined with caffeine and other herbs which more directly increase the fat burning process in body.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract, sour orange, Seville orange, bigarade orange, or marmalade orange is in a narrow sense the citrus tree Citrus × aurantium and its fruit.
It is native to Southeast Asia and has been spread by humans to many parts of the world.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is probably a cross between the pomelo, Citrus maxima, and the mandarin orange, Citrus reticulata.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is derived from the fruit, peel, flowers, and leaves of the Citrus aurantium tree, commonly known as bitter orange.
This tree is native to Southeast Asia but is now widely grown in various parts of the world, including the Mediterranean region and the Americas.
The extract is known for its range of bioactive compounds, particularly synephrine, which is similar in structure to ephedrine, and is often used in weight loss supplements and traditional medicine.
The most prominent alkaloid in Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract, synephrine is structurally similar to ephedrine and is known for its stimulant properties.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract’s often used for weight loss, enhancing athletic performance, and increasing energy levels.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract contains various flavonoids, such as hesperidin and naringin, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The peel of the fruit contains essential oils like limonene and linalool, which contribute to the extract's fragrance and have calming and digestive properties.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extractis widely used in weight loss supplements due to its ability to increase metabolism and promote fat burning.
Synephrine stimulates thermogenesis (heat production) in the body, which can help burn calories.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is often included in formulations designed to enhance athletic performance and energy levels.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract increases the basal metabolic rate and stimulates the breakdown of fats, making it popular in diet and weight management products.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used to help control appetite, which can be beneficial for weight loss.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is believed that synephrine helps reduce food cravings by influencing neurotransmitters that regulate hunger.
In traditional medicine, Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used to treat digestive issues like indigestion, constipation, and bloating.
The volatile oils, particularly limonene, have carminative (gas-relieving) properties that can help alleviate digestive discomfort.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is sometimes used to improve digestion and relieve gastrointestinal distress, supporting a healthy digestive system.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used in traditional medicine to support heart health and improve circulation.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract’s stimulant effects can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which is why it’s sometimes used to support circulatory function.
However, this also poses potential risks, especially for individuals with heart conditions.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract and its extract have been used in traditional remedies to treat skin conditions such as acne, athlete’s foot, and ringworm.
Due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, Bitter Orange extract is used in skincare products to help manage oily skin, acne, and other skin issues.
In traditional Chinese medicine, Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used to alleviate symptoms of colds, coughs, and flu.
The extract is believed to help clear mucus and relieve congestion, making it a common ingredient in natural remedies for respiratory conditions.
The flavonoids and essential oils in Bitter Orange extract have been studied for their antimicrobial properties, making the extract useful in fighting infections and protecting the body from harmful bacteria and fungi.
The antioxidant properties of the flavonoids help neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
The essential oils from Bitter Orange, especially from the peel, are used in aromatherapy to help reduce anxiety, stress, and depression.
The scent of Bitter Orange is considered uplifting and calming, which can improve mood and mental well-being.
Due to the stimulant effects of synephrine, Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract can increase blood pressure and heart rate, which may pose risks for individuals with cardiovascular issues or those on certain medications.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract can interact with medications such as blood pressure drugs, antidepressants, and blood thinners.
This can potentially lead to serious side effects, so it should be used with caution, especially under medical supervision.
Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, such as nausea or heartburn, when taking Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract.
The use of Bitter Orange extract, especially in topical products, can increase sensitivity to sunlight, leading to a higher risk of sunburn.
Density: 0.927 g/mL at 25 °C
refractive index: n20/D1.483
FEMA: 2636 | LINALYL ACETATE
Flash point: >100℃
Odor: at 100.00 %. sweet floral orangeflower petitgrain hyacinth honeysuckle citrus rind spicy honey
Odor Type: floral
In some new systems, the species Citrus × aurantium includes not only the Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract, but also all other crosses between the pomelo (Citrus maxima) and the wild mandarin (Citrus reticulata sensu stricto, other name: Citrus daoxianensis), i.e. mainly: the sweet orange (Citrus × aurantium Sweet Orange Group, other names: Citrus × aurantium var. sinensis, Citrus sinensis), the grapefruit (Citrus × aurantium Grapefruit Group, other names: Citrus × aurantium var. paradisi, Citrus paradisi)
and all cultivated mandarins (Citrus × aurantium Mandarin Group and Tangerine Group and Satsuma Group etc., other names: Citrus × aurantium var. tangerina and var. deliciosa and var. nobilis and var. unshiu etc., Citrus × aurantium f. deliciosa, Citrus reticulata sensu lato [pro parte majore, i.e. excluding the wild mandarins]).
The following text of this article only deals with the bitter orange proper.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract spread from Southeast Asia via India and Iran to the Islamic world as early as 700 C.E.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract was introduced to Spain in the 10th century by the Moors.
It was introduced to Florida and the Bahamas from Spain, and wild trees are found near small streams in generally secluded and wooded areas.
The Seville orange (the usual name in this context) is prized for making British orange marmalade, being higher in pectin than the sweet orange, and therefore giving a better set and a higher yield.
Once a year, oranges of this variety are collected from trees in Seville and shipped to Britain to be used in marmalade.
However, the fruit is rarely consumed locally in Andalusia.
This reflects the historic Atlantic trading relationship with Portugal and Spain; the earliest recipe for 'marmelat of oranges' dates from 1677.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract—bigarade—was used in all early recipes for duck à l'orange, originally called canard à la bigarade.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is also used in compotes and for orange-flavored liqueurs.
The peel can be used in the production of bitters. The unripe fruit, called narthangai, is commonly used in Southern Indian cuisine, especially in Tamil cuisine.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is pickled by cutting it into spirals or small wedges and stuffing it with salt.
The pickle is usually consumed with yoghurt rice called thayir sadam.
The fresh fruit is also used frequently in pachadis.
Following bans on the herbal stimulant ephedra in the U.S., Canada, and elsewhere, Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been substituted into "ephedra-free" herbal weight-loss products by dietary supplement manufacturers.
Like most dietary supplement ingredients, bitter orange has not undergone formal safety testing, but it is believed to cause the same spectrum of adverse events (harmful side effects) as ephedra.
The U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health found, "currently little evidence [shows] that bitter orange is safer to use than ephedra."
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has shown potential in managing metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels.
The flavonoids in Bitter Orange, particularly hesperidin, may help improve insulin sensitivity, lower blood glucose levels, and reduce inflammation, all of which are beneficial for people with diabetes or pre-diabetes.
There is growing interest in the potential cognitive benefits of Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract.
The antioxidants and flavonoids may help protect against oxidative stress in the brain, which is linked to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Additionally, the stimulant effects of synephrine could potentially enhance focus and mental clarity, though this also comes with the risk of overstimulation.
As mentioned earlier, Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory ailments.
Its bronchodilator effects may help in conditions such as asthma by relaxing the muscles around the airways, improving airflow.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract’s decongestant properties are also utilized in modern herbal remedies to alleviate symptoms of colds, flu, and sinusitis, helping to clear mucus and relieve nasal congestion.
While most focus is on its fat-burning properties, Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract may also help reduce fluid retention and bloating, contributing to overall body contouring and weight management.
Its diuretic properties can help eliminate excess water from the body, reducing puffiness and swelling.
Uses:
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used traditionally as a sedative, an appetite stimulant, an insecticide for mosquitos, and for Tinea infections and dyspepsia.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is also used for anemia, kidney/bladder disorders, heart, and circulation.
Topically bitter orange is used for inflammation of eyelids, conjunctivae, muscle pain, rheumatic pain, and phlibitis.
Many varieties of Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract are used for their essential oil, and are found in perfume, used as a flavoring or as a solvent, and also for consumption.
The Seville orange variety is used in the production of marmalade and also used to make French bigarade.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is also employed in herbal medicine as a stimulant and appetite suppressant, due to its active ingredient, synephrine.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract supplements have been linked to a number of serious side effects and deaths, and consumer groups advocate that people avoid using the fruit medically.
Whether bitter orange affects medical conditions of heart and cardiovascular organs, by itself or in formulae with other substances, is inconclusive.
Standard reference materials are released concerning the properties in bitter orange by the National Institute of Standards and Technology for ground fruit, extract, and solid oral dosage form, along with those packaged together into one item.
In the Americas, the juice from the ripe fruit is used as a marinade for meat in Nicaraguan, Cuban, Dominican, and Haitian cooking, as it is in Peruvian ceviche.
In Yucatán (Mexico), Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is a main ingredient of the cochinita pibil.
In Cuba, a traditional Christmas time dessert is made with the peel of the bitter orange cooked in syrup and eaten with cheese and buñuelos.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extracts juice is also used in the well-known dish pom.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is used as a rootstock in groves of sweet orange.
The fruit and leaves make lather and can be used as soap.
The hard, white or light-yellow wood is used in woodworking and made into baseball bats in Cuba.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is commonly used in weight loss supplements due to its active compound synephrine, which is believed to increase metabolism and promote fat burning.
It also helps suppress appetite, making it a popular ingredient in diet products.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract acts as a stimulant, increasing energy levels, enhancing endurance, and improving overall physical performance.
It is often used by athletes and bodybuilders to boost exercise capacity and achieve better workout results.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used to treat digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, constipation, and loss of appetite.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract helps stimulate digestion and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.
In traditional medicine, Bitter Orange extract has been used to relieve symptoms of colds, flu, and respiratory conditions.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract acts as a decongestant and helps clear mucus from the airways, providing relief from coughs and nasal congestion.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is used in skincare products for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract helps treat acne, reduce oiliness, and soothe skin irritations.
The essential oils derived from Bitter Orange peel are also used in aromatherapy and cosmetics for their fragrance and calming effects.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used to support heart health by improving circulation and potentially reducing cholesterol levels.
However, its stimulant effects on heart rate and blood pressure require caution.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract may help manage metabolic syndrome by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing blood sugar levels.
The flavonoids in the Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract, such as hesperidin, contribute to its potential benefits in diabetes management.
Due to its antimicrobial properties, Bitter Orange extract is used in natural remedies and products to fight infections caused by bacteria and fungi.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is effective against conditions like thrush, yeast infections, and certain bacterial infections.
The essential oils from Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract, particularly from the peel, are used in aromatherapy to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
The calming effects of the scent can improve mood and mental well-being.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used to regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate symptoms of PMS, such as cramps and mood swings.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract may help balance hormones and support reproductive health.
The extract has been used traditionally to treat colds and flu by helping to reduce fever, clear mucus, and relieve coughs.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract is used topically to treat skin conditions such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and other fungal infections.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract also helps in wound healing due to its antiseptic properties.
Some studies suggest that Bitter Orange extract may have anticancer properties due to its flavonoids and other bioactive compounds.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract may inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce inflammation associated with cancer progression.
Beyond weight loss, Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used to stimulate appetite in cases where it is lacking, such as in anorexia or other eating disorders.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract has been used in various traditional systems of medicine for its overall health benefits, including boosting immunity, improving energy levels, and enhancing well-being.
There is emerging interest in the use of Bitter Orange extract for improving cognitive function and protecting against neurodegenerative diseases, though this use is still under study.
Safety Profile:
Synephrine, a key component of Bitter Orange extract, can raise blood pressure and increase heart rate.
This poses a significant risk for individuals with hypertension, heart disease, or other cardiovascular conditions, as it may lead to heart palpitations, arrhythmias, or even more severe events like heart attacks or strokes.
The stimulant effect of synephrine can increase the risk of severe cardiovascular events, especially in those who are predisposed or have a history of heart disease.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract can interact with various medications, including:
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract can counteract the effects of antihypertensive drugs, leading to uncontrolled blood pressure.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract can interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), potentially leading to dangerous spikes in blood pressure (hypertensive crisis) or serotonin syndrome.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract may affect blood clotting, posing a risk for those on anticoagulants like warfarin.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) extract with other stimulants, such as caffeine or ephedrine, can amplify its effects, increasing the risk of cardiovascular and nervous system side effects.
