Safety and efficacy of citrus aurantium for weight loss

Am J Cardiol. 2004 Nov 15;94(10):1359-61. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2004.07.137.

Abstract

To examine the safety and efficacy of citrus aurantium, an herb now commonly used as a substitute for ephedra in dietary supplements marketed to promote weight loss, we conducted a systematic review. An extensive search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, BIOSIS, and the Cochrane Collaboration Database identified only 1 eligible randomized placebo controlled trial, which followed 20 patients for 6 weeks, demonstrated no statistically significant benefit for weight loss, and provided limited information about the safety of the herb.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Citrus* / adverse effects
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Humans
  • Obesity / drug therapy*
  • Phytotherapy*
  • Plant Preparations / adverse effects
  • Plant Preparations / therapeutic use*
  • Synephrine / therapeutic use
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Weight Loss / drug effects*

Substances

  • Plant Preparations
  • Synephrine