Citrus aurantium

Citrus aurantium
Family:Citrus aurantium; Antibacterial; Antiemetic; Antifungal; Antispasmodic; Antitussive; Aromatherapy; Carminative; Contraceptive; Diaphoretic; Digestive; Miscellany; Sedative; Stimulant; Stomachic; Tonic.
Common name:Bitter orange
Citrus species contain a wide range of active ingredients and research is still underway in finding uses for them. They are rich in vitamin C flavonoids acids and volatile oils. They also contain coumarins such as bergapten which sensitizes the skin to sunlight. Bergapten is sometimes added to tanning preparations since it promotes pigmentation in the skin though it can cause dermatitis or allergic responses in some people. Some of the plants more recent applications are as sources of anti-oxidants and chemical exfoliants in specialized cosmetics. The plants also contain umbelliferone which is antifungal as well as essential oils that are antifungal and antibacterial. They also contain the pyrone citrantin which shows antifertility activity and was once used as a component of contraceptives. Both the leaves and the flowers are antispasmodic digestive and sedative. An infusion is used in the treatment of stomach problems sluggish digestion etc. The fruit is antiemetic antitussive carminative diaphoretic digestive and expectorant.The immature fruit can be used (called Zhi Shi in China) or the mature fruit with seeds and endocarp removed (called Zhi Ke). The immature fruit has a stronger action. They are used in the treatment of dyspepsia constipation abdominal distension stuffy sensation in the chest prolapse of the uterus rectum and stomach. The fruit peel is bitter digestive and stomachic. The seed and the pericarp are used in the treatment of anorexia chest pains colds coughs etc. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy. Its keyword is 'Radiance'. It is used in treating depression tension and skin problems.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 02:17 []