Side Effects of Bitter Orange

Bitter orange has become popular as an ingredient in weight loss medication. The main active ingredient in the fruit is synephrine, which has a similar stimulating effect to ephedra, but has been deemed a safer alternative. However, the active ingredient is also the cause of side effects in patients who ingest bitter orange.

Internal Side Effects

Bitter orange has an effect on blood flow, causing high blood pressure and a rapid or irregular heart rate.

Serious Effects

Use of pills containing the fruit can lead to symptoms similar to a stroke, such as paralysis, blurred vision and weakness.

Digestive Symptoms

Bleeding during bowel movements, diarrhea and abdominal pain are symptomatic of ischemic colitis, an intestinal condition brought on by bitter orange.

Reaction

An allergy to bitter orange will cause rash, itching and swelling, along with hives and breathing difficulty. Patients should be tested for an allergy before use.

Common Effects

Less severe effects to the fruit involve insomnia, and a feeling a restlessness along with a sensitivity to bright lights and the sun.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Full history and usage of bitter orange