Citrus Aurantium Fruit Extract
Also known as: Bitter orange, Seville orange, Citrus aurantium
Overview
Citrus aurantium, commonly known as bitter orange, is a citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia but cultivated worldwide. The peel and extracts of the fruit are commonly used in dietary supplements aimed at weight management and enhancing sports performance due to their content of synephrine, a compound linked to potential lipolytic effects. Research into its efficacy and safety is at a moderate maturity level. While some studies have indicated potential benefits for weight loss, results are inconsistent, and further research is needed to fully elucidate its effects. The quality of evidence surrounding its health benefits and safety is variable, with some studies showing positive effects and others raising safety concerns, particularly regarding cardiovascular risks.
Benefits
The purported primary benefit of Citrus aurantium extracts lies in their potential for weight loss, largely attributed to synephrine. However, evidence supporting significant weight loss is limited; a meta-analysis indicated that synephrine does not significantly facilitate weight loss while associating it with increased blood pressure. Secondary benefits may include potential improvements in cardiovascular health, although such findings are inconsistent across studies. Notably, no specific population has demonstrated consistent evidence of benefit. The overall effect size for weight loss is typically small and not statistically significant, and any relevant benefits are generally observed after several weeks.
How it works
Synephrine, the primary active component of Citrus aurantium, primarily enhances lipolysis by acting on adrenergic receptors, leading to increased energy expenditure. It may interact with metabolic and cardiovascular systems, but the specific molecular pathways and mechanisms are not fully elucidated. The absorption and bioavailability of synephrine from these extracts are variable and not well documented.
Side effects
Citrus aurantium presents some safety concerns, particularly regarding cardiovascular health. Common side effects reported (in over 5% of users) include increased blood pressure and heart rate. Less common side effects (1-5%) may involve drug interactions, especially with medications metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes. Rare side effects (<1%) are not well documented. Individuals with hypertension or existing cardiovascular conditions are advised to exercise caution when using this supplement. Special considerations should also be given to pregnant women and children, who should consult healthcare providers prior to use.
Dosage
The dosing guidelines for Citrus aurantium are not well established, particularly for weight loss. The optimal dosage typically ranges from 10 to 50 mg of synephrine per serving. There is no clearly defined maximum safe dose; therefore, caution is advised due to potential cardiovascular effects. It is generally recommended to take the supplement before meals or workouts. Capsules and extracts are common forms used, with variations in bioavailability based on formulation and individual factors.
FAQs
What are the potential side effects of Citrus aurantium?
Common side effects include increased blood pressure and heart rate. Users with cardiovascular issues should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Is it safe to take Citrus aurantium with other medications?
Citrus aurantium may interact with medications metabolized by certain enzymes; consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice if you are using other medications.
How should I take Citrus aurantium for best results?
It’s generally recommended to take Citrus aurantium before meals or workouts, but optimal timing may vary based on individual goals.
Can I expect significant weight loss from Citrus aurantium?
The evidence supporting significant weight loss is limited, and benefits may vary; users may experience increased energy or alertness.
Is Citrus aurantium a safer alternative to ephedra?
While often regarded as a safer alternative, Citrus aurantium carries risks, especially regarding cardiovascular effects; caution is advised.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.822678/full – This meta-analysis synthesizes data from multiple studies, finding that synephrine does not significantly facilitate weight loss while potentially increasing blood pressure. It highlights the need for more long-term safety and efficacy studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32497396/ – This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of Citrus aurantium extracts on weight loss in healthy individuals, concluding that significant metabolic changes were not consistently observed. The study emphasizes the limitations of small sample sizes.
- https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/82/9/1292/7272715?login=false – This systematic review assesses the safety and efficacy of Citrus aurantium extracts, indicating that cardiovascular concerns exist and establishing that comprehensive data on long-term safety is lacking.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15337824/ – This study analyzed the effects of Citrus aurantium on weight loss and metabolic parameters, concluding that extracts may not consistently lead to significant benefits while raising safety questions.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36235672/ – This publication reviews various studies on Citrus aurantium, highlighting safety risks and the variable efficacy of its extracts, particularly concerning cardiovascular effects.