Although some studies suggest that taking bitter orange (Zhi Ke) can aid in moderate weight loss when combined with a controlled diet and active exercise, it is not worth the risk due to its potential to cause a range of serious health issues. If you are trying to lose weight, stick to safe methods and avoid using bitter orange.
Bitter orange is an herb extracted from the bitter orange tree and is often used as a weight loss supplement or added to various health products. After the weight loss herb ephedra was banned for causing serious health problems, bitter orange became increasingly popular as an alternative among marketers and those looking to lose weight.
However, similar to ephedra, bitter orange has stimulant properties and can cause serious health problems. It contains several chemical compounds, the most significant being synephrine and octopamine, which are similar to the compounds found in ephedra. These substances can increase heart rate and elevate blood pressure. As a result, taking bitter orange can lead to headaches, fainting, and even life-threatening conditions like stroke and heart attack. The risk is even higher if you also consume caffeine or other stimulants. Additionally, bitter orange may interact with other medications you are taking.
Remember: Just because a supplement is natural does not mean it is safe.