Citrus Aurantium Amara Fruit Extract
Bitter orange extract contains p-synephrine, a sympathomimetic that can raise heart rate and blood pressure, especially when combined with caffeine. FDA has warned about adverse cardiovascular events linked to bitter orange supplements.
What it is
Extract of bitter orange (Citrus aurantium amara) fruit, containing flavonoids and synephrine alkaloids.
Flavoring; sometimes marketed as a stimulant in dietary supplements due to synephrine content.
Why it's flagged
- cardiovascular events when combined with caffeine
- elevated blood pressure
- interactions with stimulants
What regulators actually say
"Bitter orange contains synephrine, which is similar to ephedrine; it has been linked to cardiovascular adverse events particularly when combined with caffeine."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as flavor; supplement use subject to DSHEA without pre-market approval.
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as natural flavoring; supplement labeling rules apply.
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