Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) is commonly included in weight loss and "fat metabolism" supplements, particularly after the banning of ephedra in many countries. The primary active compound, synephrine, is structurally similar to ephedrine and is believed to possess mild adrenergic-stimulating properties, theoretically increasing metabolic rate and fat oxidation. Several small clinical studies and animal research have examined the effects of bitter orange extract or synephrine on energy expenditure and lipolysis. Some evidence suggests a modest increase in resting metabolic rate and fat oxidation, but the effects are generally smaller than those seen with ephedra or caffeine. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews indicate that while bitter orange may provide minor short-term increases in weight loss, the results are inconsistent, and the clinical relevance is unclear. Additionally, concerns regarding cardiovascular safety (e.g., increased heart rate and blood pressure) have limited its acceptance. Overall, the evidence for supporting fat metabolism is limited and not robust. There is some scientific basis for its use, primarily due to mechanistic plausibility and small clinical trials, but larger, high-quality studies are lacking, and the benefit appears to be modest at best. There is no strong traditional use of bitter orange specifically for fat metabolism; its use in this context is a relatively modern development.

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