Immature Bitter Orange (Zhi Shi): 12 Proven Health Benefits, Uses & Dosage Explained

Introduction to Bitter Orange

Immature bitter orange (Citrus aurantium fructus, also known as Zhi Shi in Traditional Chinese Medicine) is a potent herbal remedy with centuries of use across cultures. Harvested before ripening, this green, bitter fruit is more than just a digestive aid—it's a powerful herb for breaking Qi stagnation, supporting metabolism, and aiding the body's natural detoxification process.

Used traditionally in both Ayurveda and TCM, Zhi Shi is known to regulate Qi, transform phlegm, reduce food accumulation, and invigorate digestion. Today, modern research supports its usefulness in weight management, energy support, and immune resilience.

What Is Bitter Orange?

Bitter orange is a citrus fruit known for its pungent aroma, tart taste, and healing potential. Unlike sweet oranges, bitter orange is typically not consumed raw. Instead, it's used in extracts, oils, supplements, and teas. The most notable compound in bitter orange is synephrine, a naturally occurring stimulant similar to ephedrine but milder in effect.

Discover the health benefits of immature bitter orange (Zhi Shi), a powerful TCM herb used for digestion, Qi stagnation, weight loss, and more. Learn how to use it safely and effectively.

Nutritional Profile of Bitter Orange

• Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and skin health

• Synephrine: Aids metabolism and energy

• Flavonoids (hesperidin, naringin): Provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects

• Essential oils: Possess antimicrobial properties

• Fiber: Supports digestion
  

How to Use Bitter Orange Safely

Best Forms:

Extracts (capsules or tinctures): Convenient and measurable

Tea: Made from the dried peel

Essential oil: For topical or aromatherapy use

What Is The Differences Between Immature and Mature Bitter Orange?

Summary:

• Immature Bitter Orange (Zhi Shi) is more powerful and often used to break through tough stagnation, bloating, or severe indigestion.

• Mature Bitter Orange (Zhi Qiao) is gentler, better suited for tonifying or harmonizing digestion, especially in sensitive individuals or the elderly.

Both are used medicinally, but the form and purpose determine which is chosen.

Common Names:  Immature Bitter Orange, Bitter Orange Fruit, Immature Bitter Orange Fruit, Seville Orange, Bigarade Orange, Sour Orange, Immature fruit of Bitter Orange, Unripe Bitter Orange
Botanical Name: Citrus aurantium fructus
Chinese / Pin Yin Name:  Zhi Shi
Immature Bitter Orange Dosage: Consult your healthcare provider for correct dose.
Immature Bitter Orange Precautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing.  Do not use bitter orange if you have high blood pressure or any heart issues. May interfere with medications.  Do not use with anti-anxiety medications. 

Summary of Immature Bitter Orange Health Benefits & Information

Native to Africa, bitter orange is now grown throughout the world.  It is a common food staple used in cooking, such as orange marmalade, as well as in beer and spirts.  Immature bitter orange is also used in many herbal supplements and essential oils.  Immature bitter orange naturally contains the stimulant p-Synephrine.  While structurally similar to ephedrine, a banned substance, p-Synephrine acts differently in the body and is considered safe to use.  However, due to its stimulant properties, immature bitter orange supplements and synephrine are banned by the National Collegiate Athletic Association.

In traditional Chinese medicine immature bitter orange breaks stagnant Qi, reduces accumulation, transforms phlegm, relieves distension, and is used in Qi tonics.  Studies have found the antifungal properties of bitter orange are beneficial with fungal infections such as jock itch, athletes’ foot, ringworm, and other skin issues when applied topically.  Other health benefits of immature bitter orange include supporting digestive health, easing occasional constipation, may benefit healthy weight management, promotes wound healing, may support healthy blood glucose levels, benefits cardiovascular health, and supports liver health.

The cut form of immature bitter orange can be used to make a decoction, tincture, or tea.  Powdered immature bitter orange is perfect to make your own fresh, filler free, immature bitter orange capsules or compress.

Immature Bitter Orange Herb Category:  Herbs that Regulate Qi.
Immature Bitter Orange Properties:  Bitter, Slightly Cold, Sour, Non-toxic, Acrid
Immature Bitter Orange Channels/Meridians: Spleen, Stomach, Large Intestines
Immature Bitter Orange Naturally Occurring Components:  Nutritional & Active Compounds

• p-Synephrine – Boosts metabolism, mild stimulant

• Vitamin C – Supports immune and skin health

• Flavonoids (Hesperidin, Naringin) – Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory

• Essential oils – Antimicrobial properties

• Fiber – Supports gut motility and microbiome balance

Trusted Combinations in TCM

• Zhi Shi + Bai Shao (White Peony) : Regulates Qi and nourishes Blood

• Zhi Shi + Gui Zhi (Cinnamon ): Unblocks Yang, moves Qi

• Zhi Shi + Xing Ren (Apricot Kernel): Opens Lung, descends Qi

Conclusion

Bitter orange is a versatile, natural supplement with a range of potential health benefits—from digestive and skin health to energy, fat burning, and immune support. While powerful, it must be used wisely, especially due to its stimulant content. Always follow dosage guidelines and consult a professional if needed.

Shop Immature Bitter Orange Forms and Sizes of Bulk Herbs Below

References:  
http://alternativehealing.org/zhi_ke.htm 
https://www.sacredlotus.com/go/chinese-herbs/substance/zhi-shi-immature-fruit-of-the-bitter-orange 
https://chineseherbinfo.com/zhi-shi-immature-bitter-orange/ 
https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Citrus-Aurantium-Cid312  
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/bitter-orange  
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3444973/