13 Feb The Healing Power Of Grapefruit!

 
An inventive, 18th century horticulturist on the island of Barbados cross bred a pomelo with an orange and the Grapefruit was born so named because it grew in a cluster like grapes. A member of the Rutaceae (citrus) family, Grapefruit has 3 Latin names: Citrus paradis (fruit of paradise), Citrus Racemosa and Citrus Maxima, but originally it was known as “the forbidden fruit of Barbados.”

GRAPEFRUIT IS AVAILABLE IN SEVERAL DIFFERENT FORMS

• A delicious fruit to enjoy in its original form – The Grapefruit comes in a variety of colors – white, yellow, pink or red – and a full spectrum of tastes from quite acidic to sugary.
• Grapefruit Seeds and Grapefruit Seed Extract – Commonly used in throat and nasal spray, mouthwash, toothpaste and shower gel.
• Pink Grapefruit Essential Oil* – The essential oil of the Grapefruit is extracted from its peel. When shopping for Essential Oil, be sure the grapefruit hasn’t been sprayed with pesticides or other harmful chemicals which concentrate in the peel. The oil should also be processed by a cold press procedure which preserves its beneficial compounds. Steam distillation can adversely affect the quality of the oil and any oil processed through solvent extraction is contaminated with chemicals.*TARA Pink Grapefruit Essential Oil is both cold pressed and pesticide and chemical free.

Grapefruit has been used for hundreds of years for its many healing benefits. Long associated with dieting and weight loss, grapefruit has so much more going for it than that! It’s low in calories and packed full of nutrients, especially the powerful antioxidants Vitamins A and C. In fact, 1/2 grapefruit a day meets 64% of your Vitamin C needs!

Grapefruit Essential Oil contains several phytonutrients (all-natural, plant based chemicals). Limonene, the most abundant, is a powerful anti-inflammatory. Apigenin, with its anti-tumor properties has been shown to reduce the risk of cancer and Naringin, an anti-oxidant, protects vascular systems and reduces ‘bad” cholesterol. It’s also responsible for the bitter flavor of the grapefruit.Grapefruit extract and juice decreased blood pressure in those suffering from hypertension and also for normal, healthy patients

In addition to being one of the most hydrating fruits in the world (it’s 91% water), Grapefruit is an overall tonic that boosts immune response and tones the whole organ system. It also ensures the healthy functioning of the lymphatic system and boosts its activity – the perfect aid for spring cleansing and detoxification.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

• Its antiseptic property, one of the first benefits discovered by our ancestors, treats sore throats and skin blemishes and helps heal cuts, wounds and bruises. As a disinfectant it offers protection against infections and eliminates infections already present.
• The Vitamin C in Grapefruit helps fight skin damage caused by the sun and pollution and plays a vital role in the formation of collagen, the main support system that insures clear, healthy skin. It also protects skin cells against premature aging and tissue degeneration.
• Helps maintain a healthy heart and lowers blood pressure.
• Its antioxidant properties help combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer and can potentially slow or prevent breast cancer cell progression.
• Improves insulin resistance.
• Consumption of fresh grapefruit has been shown to assist in weight loss. It’s low in calories and has also been shown to act as an appetite suppressant.
• In Ayurvedic medicine, grapefruit is a remedy for digestive problems as it stimulates the gall bladder and assists in the secretion of bile. It also prevents constipation and promotes regularity through its
• high water and fiber content.

As a diuretic, it helps keep the body light and free from toxins by promoting urination which keeps the urinary tract free from infection.

• It stimulates the brain and endocrinal glands, promoting proper secretion of hormones and enzymes, keeping metabolism in order. It also stimulates the nervous system, making you more alert and active, the digestive system, the lymphatic system and the excretory system.
• As a natural antidepressant, it uplifts, relaxes and induces positive feelings by stimulating hormones that have an uplifting effect on the brain. Helps relieves anxiety and stress.

WAYS TO USE GRAPEFRUIT EXTRACT AND ESSENTIAL OIL

• Inhalation – Inhale Essential Oil directly from the bottle or add 2-3 drops to a diffuser or onto a cloth.
• Massage – Dilute Essential Oil with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba in a 1:1 ratio. Massage with Grapefruit EO will release muscle and joint pain, cramps and headaches and help reduce cellulite.
• Topically – Do a patch test of Extract or Essential Oil on small area of skin before applying topically. It represent a cheap and effective antiseptic topical treatment option even for antibiotic-resistant strains. For Athlete’s Foot, it can be applied full strength to the problem areas. Apply a few drops of Essential Oil onto skin to stimulate lymph nodes.
• Internally – Grapefruit Oil has been approved as a food additive by the FDA, but shouldn’t be taken internally without advice of experienced practitioner or health professional. Grapefruit seeds can be taken orally or a few drops of the Extract added to water or a smoothie will help support liver and kidney function.
• Cleaning – For laundry, add 10-15 drops of Grapefruit Seed Extract to the final rinse. For general cleaning of cutting boards and kitchen and bathroom surfaces, mix Extract with water in a spray bottle.

CAUTIONS

The Extract or Essential Oil can cause skin irritation if exposed to strong sunlight after application. They should also be avoided when taking certain medications, such as calcium channel blockers, sedatives, cholesterol lowering drugs, and estrogen replacement, or if dealing with a kidney condition which can be adversely affected from too much potassium. Its enzyme binding ability will send medications through the bloodstream easier and faster than normal.