Seville Orange

At a Glance

Common name

Seville Orange

Scientific name

Citrus aurantium

Family

Rutaceae

Region

Mediterranean / Asia

Plant part

Peel, Flowers (neroli), Leaves

Caffeine

Caffeine Free (but synephrine is stimulant)

Evidence

Limited

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

An evergreen tree with glossy ovate leaves, fragrant white orange-blossom flowers, and a round bumpy orange fruit; the leaves, flowers (neroli), and peel are used.

Also known as: Bitter Orange, Sour Orange, Zhi Shi

Historical Background

Seville (bitter) orange has been a Mediterranean and Asian treasure for centuries, its sour fruit prized for marmalade, its fragrant blossom distilled into neroli, and its leaves and peel brewed into a bitter digestive tea. Traditional Chinese practice uses the immature fruit (zhi shi) for digestion.

Earliest recorded uses: Mediterranean and Asian traditions for centuries; a bitter orange for peel, blossom (neroli), and leaf.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Citrus, bitter-orange, floral, slightly spicy

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Seville orange has a tradition as a bitter digestive, and its blossom (neroli) as a calming aroma; the peel contains synephrine, a stimulant with cardiovascular concerns at high doses. Clinical evidence is mixed; it is not a treatment for obesity, indigestion, anxiety, or any disease, and stimulant-containing products warrant caution.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.