Bitter Orange (Citrus aurantium)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rutaceae
• Common Names: Bitter Orange, Seville Orange, Sour Orange
• Parts Used: Fruit, peel, flowers, leaves

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Description

Citrus aurantium is a small evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia but widely cultivated in Mediterranean regions and the Americas. Bitter orange is valued in herbal medicine for its digestive, metabolic, and aromatic properties. The peel, rich in essential oils, is commonly used to stimulate digestion and appetite, while the flowers (neroli) are prized for their calming effects.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (as Zhi Shi) to support digestion and relieve stagnation.
• Historically used in European herbal medicine for digestive health and appetite stimulation.
• Applied in Ayurvedic and Middle Eastern traditions for its aromatic and metabolic-enhancing properties.

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Constituents

• Flavonoids (hesperidin, naringin)
• Essential oils (limonene, linalool)
• P-synephrine (natural stimulant)
• Coumarins
• Pectins

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Actions

• Digestive stimulant
• Carminative
• Mild stimulant
• Antimicrobial
• Nervine (calming)
• Appetite enhancer

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Bitter orange is traditionally used to relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion by stimulating gastric juices.

2. Appetite Stimulation:
Commonly used to increase appetite in cases of poor digestion or recovery from illness.

3. Metabolic and Energy Support:
Contains synephrine, a natural compound that may support metabolism and energy levels.

4. Nervous System Support:
The flowers (Neroli) and leaves are used to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

5. Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Benefits:
Rich in flavonoids and essential oils that support immune function and overall well-being.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried peel per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 3 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Essential Oil (Aromatic Use):

• Used in aromatherapy for relaxation and stress relief.

Powdered Peel (Digestive Aid):

• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp in warm water before meals.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Blood Pressure Concerns: Synephrine may have a mild stimulant effect; those with hypertension should use with caution.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally considered safe in moderate culinary use, but medicinal doses should be used with caution.
• Photosensitivity: The essential oil may cause skin sensitivity when exposed to sunlight.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Moves stagnant Qi, strengthens digestion, and promotes circulation.
• Ayurveda: Warming and stimulating, balances Kapha and Vata, but may aggravate Pitta in excess.

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Combinations

• For Digestion: Combine with ginger and fennel.
• For Energy Support: Combine with green tea and eleuthero.
• For Relaxation: Combine with chamomile and lemon balm.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Peels are collected from mature fruits and dried for medicinal use.
• Drying: Sun-dried or air-dried in a warm, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried peel in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Citrus aurantium’s digestive, metabolic, and antioxidant benefits, reinforcing its traditional medicinal uses.

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Bitter orange remains a versatile herb in traditional and modern medicine, valued for digestion, energy, and relaxation support.