Citrus Aurantium Seed Extract
Also known as: Bitter orange, Sour orange, Seville orange, Citrus aurantium
Overview
*Citrus aurantium* L., commonly known as bitter orange, is a citrus tree native to Southeast Asia, now available worldwide. Its extracts are primarily utilized in dietary supplements, especially for weight loss, appetite suppression, and physical performance enhancement. The extract is rich in bioactive compounds such as p-synephrine, flavonoids (naringin, hesperidin), and terpenoids, which contribute to its physiological effects. While moderate research supports the efficacy of *Citrus aurantium* for weight loss and metabolic enhancement, concerns regarding safety, especially cardiovascular risks, continue to persist. The research maturity level indicates moderate scientific interest, yet long-term data remains limited.
Benefits
Evidence indicates that *Citrus aurantium* may contribute to modest weight loss and an increased metabolic rate, albeit with inconsistent results across studies. When taken, especially in overweight or obese populations, it may lead to a slight boost in energy expenditure and enhance lipolysis due to the action of p-synephrine on adrenergic receptors. Clinical studies have documented average increases in resting metabolic rates but highlight concerns over the clinical significance of weight loss outcomes. General effect sizes appear small, often deemed not statistically significant in larger meta-analyses. Anecdotal evidence suggests improvements in mental focus and energy levels, although substantial clinical validation is lacking.
How it works
The primary active component, p-synephrine, operates by interacting with adrenergic receptors, particularly β3-adrenergic receptors, facilitating lipolysis and metabolism enhancement. Its bioactive compounds can modulate various bodily functions, thereby influencing the cardiovascular and metabolic systems. While specific absorption studies are limited, oral administration seems feasible, although its bioavailability remains partially uncharacterized.
Side effects
*Citrus aurantium* is generally considered safe for short-term use; however, potential side effects include increased heart rate and elevated blood pressure, particularly following doses higher than recommended. Concerns regarding cardiovascular safety correlate with its structural similarity to ephedrine, advising caution for individuals with pre-existing hypertension or cardiovascular conditions. Rare side effects are not extensively documented due to insufficient research. Regarding drug interactions, components like bergapten may influence the metabolism of certain medications, notably those processed by cytochrome P450-3A. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid its use due to the lack of safety data in these populations.
Dosage
There is no universally accepted optimal dosage for *Citrus aurantium*, but a minimum effective dose of 10-53 mg of p-synephrine per day has been noted in studies. Most dosages are often combined with other ingredients, complicating the establishment of specific ranges. Caution should be exercised regarding maximum doses as no upper limits have been clearly defined. Users typically take the supplement before meals or workouts to maximize benefits, while absorption can be influenced by dietary factors.
FAQs
Can I take *Citrus aurantium* with other supplements?
Yes, it is often combined with other ingredients like caffeine, but always monitor for increased side effects.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Long-term safety data is lacking, and caution is advised due to potential cardiovascular risks.
What results can I expect?
Modest weight loss and enhanced energy may occur after consistent use over several weeks.
Should I be concerned about its safety?
While generally safe in short-term studies, underlying cardiovascular issues can pose risks.
How should I store *Citrus aurantium* supplements?
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and tightly seal after use.
Research Sources
- https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9717/13/1/120 – This systematic review examines 18 articles on synephrine interventions, reporting increased blood pressure with no significant weight loss effects. Despite the moderate quality of the studies due to heterogeneity, it provides insights into the cardiovascular implications of synephrine.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22991491/ – In reviewing around 360 subjects across human clinical trials, findings showed that p-synephrine modestly boosts resting metabolic rates and energy expenditure. However, many trials combine it with other compounds, complicating the assessment of its individual efficacy.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ptr.5879 – Results from this safety and efficacy review prompted concerns over possible cardiovascular risks associated with *Citrus aurantium*, especially given its similarity to ephedrine. The review noted significant gaps in long-term safety data.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15337824/ – This study affirmed safety and, to an extent, efficacy in weight loss, but noted that adverse effects could be an issue, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36235672/ – The research highlights the modest metabolic effects of p-synephrine, emphasizing the need for stringent examination of its long-term use due to the lack of comprehensive data on chronic effects.