Bitter orange (citrus aurantium) is used for nausea, indigestion, heartburn, poor appetite, dysentery, constipation and weight loss.
Bitter orange (Zhi ke) is used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). According to TCM, bitter orange is bitter and sour. It targets lung, stomach, liver and large intestine. It has effects to direct (guide) Qi and dampness downward out of the chest and stomach. The Qi is guided to the large intestine. Therefore, it can relieve nausea, indigestion, heartburn, poor appetite, and wet cough caused by the uprising Qi and dampness in the upper body (lungs and stomach). And the downwarding Qi in the intestines also helps relieve intestinal gas, dysentery and constipation.
Bitter orange has short-term effects to improve appetite and relieve gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. But long-term use may weaken the functions of the stomach and spleen due to its downwarding properties.
Today, bitter orange is used for weight loss. But There is no strong evidence to suggest this effect. The supplements containing bitter orange are not recommended to those with high blood pressure or heart disease.
The dried fruit of bitter orange is sold in herbal stores, and the supplements in forms of extracts, tablets, and capsules are sold in health supplement stores.
Before taking bitter orange, please consult your healthcare professional.
Read more information about natural remedies for nausea.
