Tag: Seville orange

While the name 'bitter lemon' is most often associated with the soft drink mixer containing quinine, it is also a source of confusion, as it can refer to an entirely different citrus fruit or even an unrelated tropical vine vegetable. This term's meaning depends heavily on the regional and culinary context in which it is used.

According to the U.S. National Cancer Institute, furanocoumarins are natural substances found in certain plants, most notably particular citrus fruits like grapefruit, Seville oranges, and limes. These compounds are responsible for drug interactions and understanding which citrus contains furanocoumarins is vital for those on specific medications.

Recent research and expert consensus indicate that bitter orange, especially in supplement form, carries potential health risks for vulnerable individuals. This article explores whether it is safe to eat a bitter orange, distinguishing between culinary use and concentrated supplements.

Native to Southeast Asia, the fruit of the bitter orange is rarely consumed raw due to its intense sour and bitter taste. This raises the important question: is it safe to eat bitter oranges, and if so, what are the key differences between culinary consumption and the high-risk supplements?