Orange Tree Glycerite Liquid Extract
Also known as: Bitter Orange, Zhi Shi, Citrus × aurantium
Overview
Orange Tree Glycerite Liquid Extract is an alcohol-free, glycerin-based liquid extract derived from the immature fruit of *Citrus × aurantium*, commonly known as Bitter Orange or Zhi Shi. This extract is prepared by using vegetable glycerin as a solvent to draw out bioactive compounds, resulting in a concentrated liquid form. Traditionally, it has been utilized for its potential benefits in digestive support, weight management, and cardiovascular health. Its primary active compound is synephrine, a protoalkaloid structurally similar to ephedrine, which is believed to influence metabolism and lipid profiles. While *Citrus aurantium* extracts have been extensively studied for their effects on lipid metabolism and weight, direct clinical data specifically on glycerite formulations are limited. Most evidence is extrapolated from studies on other forms of Bitter Orange extracts, including alcohol-based tinctures and powders.
Benefits
Research on *Citrus aurantium* extracts, including various forms, suggests potential benefits in lipid profile modulation. A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that Citrus extracts could significantly reduce total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in both preclinical and clinical studies, suggesting a role in dyslipidemia management. However, the evidence for weight loss is less compelling. A meta-analysis of 18 placebo-controlled randomized controlled trials on synephrine, the main active alkaloid in Bitter Orange, found no significant effect on weight loss or body composition even after prolonged use. Furthermore, synephrine tends to increase systolic and diastolic blood pressure (mean increases of approximately 6.4 mmHg and 4.3 mmHg, respectively) and heart rate, raising significant cardiovascular safety concerns. Therefore, while there might be some benefit for individuals with dyslipidemia, the evidence does not clearly support its efficacy for obesity or weight loss, and cardiovascular risks must be considered.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for *Citrus × aurantium* is attributed to synephrine, which acts as a sympathomimetic agent. Synephrine primarily stimulates adrenergic receptors, particularly beta-3 adrenergic receptors. This stimulation can lead to increased lipolysis (fat breakdown) and thermogenesis (heat production), potentially influencing metabolic rate. In terms of its interaction with body systems, synephrine affects the cardiovascular system by increasing heart rate and blood pressure. It also influences metabolic pathways related to lipid metabolism. While synephrine is absorbed orally, specific pharmacokinetic data for glycerite extracts are lacking, though their bioavailability is generally considered similar to other liquid extracts.
Side effects
While generally considered safe in moderate doses, *Citrus × aurantium* glycerite liquid extract should be used with caution due to its cardiovascular stimulating effects. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and jitteriness. Less common side effects (1-5%) may include headache and gastrointestinal discomfort. Rare but serious side effects (less than 1%) can involve arrhythmias, palpitations, and anxiety. This extract has potential interactions with various medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), beta-blockers, and other sympathomimetic drugs. It is contraindicated in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular disease, hypertension, or those who are pregnant or lactating. It should also not be used concurrently with other stimulants. Specific populations, such as children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and individuals with heart conditions, should avoid its use due to insufficient safety data and potential risks.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for *Citrus × aurantium* glycerite extracts is not well-established, as concentrations can vary. However, studies on synephrine, the primary active compound, typically use doses ranging from 10-50 mg per day. Clinical trials often utilize 30-50 mg of synephrine daily. Due to the varying concentrations in glycerite extracts, standardization is crucial to ensure consistent dosing. A maximum safe dose is generally considered to be around 50 mg/day of synephrine, as higher doses increase cardiovascular risks. The extract is usually taken 1-3 times daily, often with meals. Glycerite extracts are alcohol-free, making them a preferred option for individuals sensitive to alcohol; however, dosing will depend on the specific extract's concentration. Food intake may influence absorption, and glycerin-based extracts might have a slower absorption rate compared to alcohol tinctures. No specific cofactors are required, but concurrent use with other stimulants should be avoided.
FAQs
Is it safe to use for weight loss?
Evidence does not reliably support significant weight loss benefits from *Citrus × aurantium* extracts. Furthermore, the cardiovascular risks, such as increased blood pressure and heart rate, may outweigh any potential, unproven benefits for weight management.
Can it be taken with other supplements?
Caution is advised when combining *Citrus × aurantium* with other supplements, especially those with stimulant properties or any medications affecting the cardiovascular system, due to potential additive effects on heart rate and blood pressure.
When can I expect to see effects?
Any potential lipid-lowering effects may take several weeks to become noticeable. However, reliable weight loss effects have not been consistently demonstrated in research studies.
Is glycerite extract better than alcohol tincture?
Glycerite extracts are alcohol-free, which may make them better tolerated by some individuals. However, there is currently no direct comparative clinical data to definitively state that glycerite extracts are superior to alcohol tinctures in terms of efficacy.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8884359/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis from 2022 investigated the effects of various Citrus extracts on lipid profiles. It found significant reductions in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol in both preclinical and clinical studies, suggesting a potential benefit for dyslipidemia management. The study highlights the heterogeneity in extract types and study designs as a limitation.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36235672/ – This 2022 meta-analysis, which included 18 placebo-controlled randomized controlled trials, focused on the effects of synephrine, the main active alkaloid in Bitter Orange. It concluded that synephrine showed no significant effect on weight loss or body composition after prolonged use. Crucially, it also reported significant increases in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate, raising safety concerns.
- https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06658717?term=orange&viewType=Table&checkSpell=&rank=8 – This is a registration for an ongoing clinical trial assessing the effects of natural orange extract. As of now, no results have been published, and the study is still in progress. Therefore, it does not provide current findings regarding efficacy or safety.