Grapefruit Benefits
Latin Name
Citrus paradisi
Also Known As
The shaddock fruit
Origin
Native to tropical Asia
Parts Used
Peel of fruit
Traditional Use and Health Benefits
Grapefruit essential oil has an uplifting and refreshing aroma. It's latin name paradisi indicates its traditional use, which is to uplift, to "take to paradise". It is used for banishing sadness, apathy and nervous exhaustion. It is indicated for use in the case of dark moods and lack of enthusiasm. Grapefruit essential oil is a great aid in treating depression.
Grapefruit essential oil is also detoxifying to all the bodies systems, it is particularly cleansing and stimulating to the lymphatic system and the kidneys. It can be used in the case of over indulgence and is a great hangover cure.
Grapefruit is good for tonifying the skin, particularly problem skin. It is also used to break down cellulite when applied topically.
As a natural diuretic it can assist the detoxification process of the body by relieving fluid retention, and acting as a tonic for the kidneys.
Grapefruit essential oil is also the oil to use when treating exhaustion, including nervous, emotional and physical exhaustion.
PREPARATIONS:
Grapefruit essential oil can be used in the bath for relieving tiredness, stress, apathy and nervous exhaustion or it can be vaporised in an oil burner to create an uplifting and rejuvenating atmosphere. It can be added to a massage oil and used as a detoxifying rub, and when added to a face cream it can be used for problem skin.
ESSENTIAL OIL NOTE
Top note
BLENDS WELL WITH
For detoxification:
Grapefruit, Fennel, Juniper berry and Cypress.
For overindulgence:
Grapefruit, Peppermint, Fennel & Ginger.
To lift the mood:
Grapefruit, Frankincense, Bergamot & other citrus oils.
To relieve exhaustion:
Grapefruit, Marjoram, Black pepper, Ylang ylang, Rosemary & Lavender.
AROMA
Refreshing & Citrus.
Typical Use
Grapefruit essential oil can be used in the bath, or vapourised in an oil burner. It can be added to a massage oil or cream. Use 6-8 drops per bath and 10 -18 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Folklore and History
The grapefruit was originally cultivated in the West Indies in the 18th centuary where it was known as the shaddock fruit.
Constituents
Monoterpenes as limonene, Aldehydes as citronellal, citral, sinensal, esters as geranyl acetate, alcohols as paradisol, geraniol, ketones, lactones and coumarins, limettin, sesquiterpenes as cadidene.
Precautions
None known. Avoid exposure to sunlight on skin after topical application. Avoid in epilepsy and pregnancy.