Citrus aurantium has seen a surge in use in weight-loss products since the banning of ephedra by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

CNN: Is bitter orange extract a safer diet pill alternative?

Citrus aurantium is similar in structure and function to ephedra.

CNN: Is bitter orange extract a safer diet pill alternative?

In addition, because it is not considered a drug, the companies that manufacture and market products containing citrus aurantium are not held to the same standards as pharmaceutical companies.

CNN: Is bitter orange extract a safer diet pill alternative?

While citrus aurantium may have fewer side effects and be easier to obtain than prescription diet pills, I think the risk, cost and lack of clear benefit of supplements containing this compound do not make it a better alternative to diet pills.

CNN: Is bitter orange extract a safer diet pill alternative?