Citrus bergamot and bitter orange are both popular herbs with health benefits for metabolism and weight loss. However, they both stand apart from each other in multiple unique ways.
This article will help you determine whether citrus bergamot or bitter orange is right for you, depending on your health condition, goals, and other critical factors.
We will provide an overview of citrus bergamot vs. bitter orange, their main health benefits, side effects, and dosing guidelines. By the end, you will see which one is best for you.
Table of Contents
- Citrus Bergamot vs. Bitter Orange: Similarities & Differences Explained
- Citrus Bergamot vs. Bitter Orange: Which is Right for You?
- Can you Take Citrus Bergamot and Bitter Orange Together?
- Citrus Bergamot Overview:
- Bitter Orange Overview:
- Citrus Bergamot vs. Bitter Orange: Potential Side Effects & Interactions
- Conclusion:
Citrus Bergamot vs. Bitter Orange: Similarities & Differences Explained
Citrus bergamot and bitter orange are relatively similar citrus fruits, but they have some major differences that set them apart.
Bergamot oranges are native to tropical Asia, although they are most often grown in the Calabrian region in Italy and the Ivory Coast. It is thought to be a hybrid of a lemon and bitter orange. These oranges grow on small trees that grow to about 15 feet tall. Citrus bergamot fruits are about the size of a mini orange, yet they are greenish-yellow in color.
Bergamot orange is usually not eaten raw due to its intense bitter, sour taste. The oil from the rind is mixed with black tea leaves to make Earl Grey tea. The juice, zest, and rind of bergamot orange is often used for various sauces, marmalades, and other dishes.
Bitter oranges are native to Eastern Africa, India, and China, but they also grow very well in the Mediterranean, South America, and the US. It is likely a hybrid of the pomelo and mandarin orange. The bitter orange tree grows much larger than bergamot, up to 33 feet tall. The fruit resembles the common orange although it is smaller in size.
Bitter oranges are not typically eaten raw in whole form due to their sour taste. Rather, the juice, peel, and zest are used for various products, such as in marmalades, syrups, juices, candies, and as an aroma.
| Citrus Bergamot Overview: | Bitter Orange Overview: | |
| Primary Benefit: | Citrus bergamot may improve cholesterol levels | Bitter orange may reduce levels of stress and anxiety |
| Secondary Benefit(s): | Citrus bergamot is thought to benefit blood sugar | Bitter orange may work to promote weight loss |
| Part of the Plant Used: | Fruit | Leaf and fruit |
| Dosage Range: | 300mg to 1,300mg | 50-100mg |
| Form: | Extract or essential oil | Extract, powder or capsule |
| Side Effects: | Excessive use may cause dizziness, muscle cramps, or heartburn | Low probability of headaches, increased heart rate, fainting, or high blood pressure |
| Recommended Products: | Utzy Naturals | Check Price | Amazing Botanicals | Check Price |
Citrus Bergamot vs. Bitter Orange: Which is Right for You?
There are a few similar benefits of citrus bergamot and bitter orange, although key ways that they differ. As a result, it’s important to give you the best information to determine which one is right for you.
In terms of health effects, both citrus bergamot and bitter orange seem beneficial for weight loss and blood sugar control. With that said, citrus bergamot is more well-researched regarding blood sugar.
Another thing to consider is that citrus bergamot seems to reduce cholesterol levels, whereas no such effect occurs with bitter orange (or at least it hasn’t been researched yet).
However, bitter orange is more effective than citrus bergamot for reducing stress and anxiety and improving sleep quality.
Based on this, if you’re looking to reduce your blood sugar or cholesterol levels, citrus bergamot seems to be the best choice.
However, if you want to reduce stress and anxiety levels or improve sleep, bitter orange essential oil is the best option.
Lastly, if you want to lose weight, you may consider supplementing with both.
Looking for an effective citrus bergamot supplement can be difficult and time-consuming, so we’ve put together a helpful article going over the Best Citrus Bergamot Supplements.
Can you Take Citrus Bergamot and Bitter Orange Together?
Yes. It appears generally safe to take citrus bergamot and bitter orange together, especially if the goal is weight loss or improved blood sugar levels.
If your goal is simply to reduce cholesterol, dosing with citrus bergamot alone is enough. And if your goal is only to reduce stress or improve sleep, then you only need to take bitter orange.
If you do decide to take citrus bergamot and bitter orange together, keep in mind that they both lower blood sugar levels. So, be sure to check with your doctor to ensure that your blood sugar levels are at a healthy level.
The Best Citrus Bergamot & Bitter Orange Supplements:
