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Grapefruit
Grapefruit Essential Oil: Facts, Benefits, Uses, and Recipes

By Jon Yaneff, CNP - April 19, 2017

Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***.

Many people have enjoyed eating grapefruit for breakfast as a weight loss food. The grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) is a nutrient-rich fruit with various health benefits, including weight loss, Appetite control, and Diabetes prevention. Grapefruit essential oil is very versatile with many of the same benefits as a grapefruit.

Grapefruit oil is extracted from the peel of the grapefruit, and it has been used for centuries to fight Stress, Inflammation, sugar cravings, and weight gain. This article details the health benefits of grapefruit essential oil, and how to best use it.

Facts about Grapefruit Essential Oil

Although the history of the grapefruit is a bit of a mystery, some believe that it was first grown in Jamaica. It was given the name grapefruit because it looked similar to grapes hanging from trees. The grapefruit has scientific names Citrus maxima and Citrus racemosa as well as the unique moniker, the “forbidden” fruit.

Grapefruit essential oil has an Aroma similar to grapefruit that is fresh, clean, and a little bitter. The signature smell and taste of citrus fruits is why it is a popular ingredient in natural household Cleaner products, and homemade soaps, cosmetics, and beauty lotions.

Grapefruit oil is naturally high in phytochemicals and Antioxidants that help fight disease. Grapefruit essential oil benefits are largely due to the constituent called limonene, which reportedly accounts for 88% to 95% of the oil. Limonene is a phytochemical Antioxidant believed to fight Tumors, prevent Cancer, and protect cells and DNA from damage. Other key Antioxidants found in grapefruit essential oil include citronellol, pinene, terpinene, myrcene, and vitamin C.

Health Benefits of Grapefruit Essential Oil

What are the health benefits of grapefruit essential oil? Grapefruit essential oil is known for its Stimulant, Tonic, Lymphatic, Disinfectant, Diuretic, Astringent, antiSeptic, and Antidepressant properties.

Research suggests that inhaling grapefruit essential oil can help activate Relaxation responses in the brain, while also reducing Blood Pressure. Grapefruit essential oil inhibits the Enzyme acetylcholinesterase activity, which could increase neurotransmitter action and improve a person’s mood. The effect may help fight brain fog, Depression, fatigue, and Stress.

The vapors from grapefruit oil may also directly and quickly send messages to the brain region linked with controlling emotional responses. A study published in the Journal of Japanese Pharmacology in 2002 found that grapefruit oil significantly affected Relaxation and brain activity in healthy adults. Inhalation of the oil led to a 1.5- to 2.5-fold increase in relative sympathetic activity that reduced Stress and improved mood. They also experienced a reduction in systolic Blood Pressure.
The following are six other purported health benefits of grapefruit essential oil:

1. Promotes Weight Loss

Research has found that the smell of grapefruit oil is associated with fat-burning responses within the brain. A study published in the journal Experimental Biology and Medicine in 2003 found that grapefruit oil can help control body weight through the activation of sympathetic Nerve activity. The activation of sympathetic Nerve activity has a positive effect on white adipose tissue, which is responsible for lipolysis. Grapefruit oil may also help you shed excess water weight because it can help boost a sluggish Lymphatic system.

2. Fights Fungal Infections

The Antifungal abilities of grapefruit oil can also help reduce yeast and Bacteria overgrowth responsible for Candida symptoms, such as sugar cravings, persistent fatigue, rectal itching, and abdominal Pain. Research shows that grapefruit can fight other Infections, including Lung Infections, nasal Infections, and Urinary tract Infections.

3. Natural AntiBacterial

The AntiBacterial and Antimicrobial effects of grapefruit oil could help decrease or eliminate harmful Bacteria strains. Studies have found that grapefruit essential oil can fight Bacterial strains responsible for food-borne illnesses like salmonella and E. coli.

4. Boosts Digestion

Grapefruit essential oil may also help with detoxification through increasing blood in the Digestive organs—the Kidneys, Liver, Bladder, and Stomach. These positive effects on Digestion could be useful for Fluid retention, and fighting the harmful Bacteria within the gut and Intestines.

5. Improves Circulation

Grapefruit oil is among the essential oils said to increase blood flow and lower Inflammation. In turn, Circulation will improve, and the reported Blood vessel-dilating effects of grapefruit oil could potentially help treat Headaches, Bloating, Muscle Pain, fatigue, and PMS Cramps.

6. Benefits Skin/Fights Acne

Grapefruit oil’s AntiBacterial properties may also have a positive effect on the Skin, which could help fight Bacteria that cause Acne. Grapefruit oil could also benefit Skin by reducing cellulite; healing Wounds, Bites, and cuts; and preventing negative effects of indoor and outdoor air pollution and UV light damage.

How to Use Grapefruit Essential Oil, Plus Recipes

The addition of grapefruit oil to Conditioner or Shampoo can help decrease grease and sweat, and help the shine and volume of Hair. You can also naturally flavor water, smoothies, and various meals with grapefruit oil. Diffusing grapefruit oil with other citrus scents like orange oil and lemon essential oil can also improve unpleasant odors in bathrooms, kitchens, and household appliances.

You can also kill odors and Bacteria naturally on countertops, wood surfaces, and floors. Some also use it as a massage oil, or bath oil. Grapefruit oil also combines well with orange oil, basil oil, bergamot oil, peppermint oil, tea tree oil, lemon essential oil, or eucalyptus oil. Here are the various ways you can use grapefruit essential oil:

1. Diffused or Inhaled

You can use grapefruit essential oil by inhaling directly from the bottle or using an oil Diffuser. This method is used for relieving Stress, Headaches, Depression, and Bloating and water retention.

2. Applied to Skin

Once diluted with carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil in a 1:1 ratio, grapefruit oil can be applied to the Skin. Once combined, rub on Acne-prone Skin, sore Muscles, and the abdominal region for improving Digestion.

3. Taken Internally

Grapefruit essential oil should only be taken internally when a high-quality, 100% pure, therapeutic-grade essential oil is purchased that includes just grapefruit rind oil from Citrus paradisi.

Here are a couple of grapefruit essential oil recipes to get you started.

Grapefruit Oil Cellulite Cream

Ingredients:
• 1 cup of coconut oil
• 30 drops of grapefruit essential oil
• 1 glass jar with lid

Directions:

Combine coconut oil with grapefruit essential oil and store in a glass container. For treatment of cellulite, rub on affected areas for five minutes each day.

Uplifting Grapefruit Oil Blend

Ingredients:
• 2 tbsp. of unscented shower gel
• 4 drops of grapefruit essential oil
• 4 drops of jasmine essential oil
• 1 drop of geranium essential oil
• 1 glass jar with lid

Directions:

Combine essential oils with the unscented shower gel in a glass jar. It is best to use this essential oil blend in the morning during an Energizing shower. This helps you begin the day on a positive note.

Grapefruit Essential Oil Precautions
In general, grapefruit essential oil is safe; however, it may interact with medications, such as Blood Pressure medications and Antidepressants. As a result, it is best to consult with your doctor before using grapefruit oil. It may also be a good idea to avoid direct sun exposure if using grapefruit oil on the Skin may be more Sensitive against sunBurns and UV light.

It is also best to do a Skin patch test to check your reaction to essential oils like grapefruit oil because some people with Sensitive Skin may experience an allergic reaction. Grapefruit essential oil should also be used in moderation, since overconsumption can over-stimulate the gallBladder and cause problems like Spasms, gallStones, and bile duct changes.



Sources:
“Grapefruit Essential Oil: Uses, Benefits, and Precautions,” Sustainable Baby Steps website; http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/grapefruit-essential-oil.html, last accessed April 13, 2017.
“Reap the Antioxidant Benefits of This Citrus Essential Oil,” Mercola, Dec. 29, 2016; http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/grapefruit-oil.aspx.
“10 Wonderful Benefits of Grapefruit Essential Oil,” Organic Facts; https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/grapefruit-essential-oil.html, last accessed April 13, 2017.
Essential Oils: All-natural remedies and recipes for your mind, body, and home (New York: Penguin Random House, 2016), 68, 172.
Haze, S., et al., “Effects of fragrance inhalation on sympathetic activity in normal adults,” Japanese Journal of Pharmacology, November 2002; 90(3): 247-253. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12499579.
Niijima, A., et al., “Effect of Olfactory stimulation with flavor of grapefruit oil and lemon oil on the activity of sympathetic branch in the white adipose tissue of the epideidymis,” Experimental Biology and Medicine, November 2003; 228(10): 1190-1192. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14610259.
Miyazawa, M., et al., “Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity by essential oil from Citrus paradisi,” Natural Product Letters, 2001; 15(3): 205-210. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11858553.
Wahab O., et al., “Essential Oil of Grape Fruit (Citrus paradisi) Peels and Its Antimicrobial Activities,” American Journal of Plant Sciences, July 2013;4(7B):1-9. DOI: 10.4236/ajps.2013.47A2001.
Uysal, B., et al.,“Essential oil composition and AntiBacterial activity of the grapefruit (Citrus Paradisi. L) peel essential oils obtained by solvent-free microwave extraction: comparison with hydrodistillation,” International Journal of Food Science and Technology, April 2011;  DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2621.2011.02640.x
“13 Grapefruit Essential Oil Benefits – Starting with Weight Loss,” Dr. Axe; https://draxe.com/grapefruit-essential-oil/, last accessed April 13, 2017.

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Benefits Of Grapefruit Essential Oil

Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art: Children enjoy the scent of grapefruit and it may be useful for adults doing inner child work. The essential oil is cleansing and may promote weight loss.

The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Grapefruit may help relieve Muscle fatigue, Muscle weakness, cellulite, Migraine, Headaches, Fluid retention, IBS, physical exhaustion, mental exhaustion, Depression, and Stress. May aid with weight loss.

The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (updated edition): For Skin care, grapefruit may help tone the Skin and be useful for Acne, oily Skin, or congested Skin. May promote Hair growth. The oil is also useful as part of a Muscle rub before exercise and can help relieve Muscle fatigue. Other uses include help with relief from Depression, Headaches, Nervous exhaustion, and performance Stress, plus the promotion of weight loss.

Aromatherapy Bible: Grapefruit is useful in Lymphatic drainage massage to help reduce water retention and cellulite. Physically, the oil is uplifting, cleansing, and stimulating. Psychologically, grapefruit is refreshing and reviving and can help relieve Depression, Stress, Nervous exhaustion, and tension.

Aromatherapy For Healing the Spirit: In Traditional Chinese Medicine grapefruit oil is cooling, cleansing, and decongesting and may help relieved an overheated Liver and sluggish Lymphatic system. The oil helps the body get rid of excess fluids and break down fats. The oil is useful for oily Skin, Acne, and Stretch marks. Grapefruit smooths the flow of stagnant Qi-energy, which can help relieve tension, frustration, irritability, and moodiness. The oil's energy is cool and dry and its main element is Wood.

The Essential Guide to Aromatherapy and Vibrational Healing: The high vibration of grapefruit helps you raise your consciousness and awareness to receive spiritual messages. The essential oil sharpens Memory and mental clarity and also opens your Heart to receive blessings, joy, and happiness.

Aromatherapy and Subtle Energy Techniques: Grapefruit clears energy blocks, uplifts, and promotes optimism. Especially use for the sixth Chakra to clear the mind, promote mental clarity, and support intuition.
Grapefruit Oil Uses

To relieve a Hangover, blend grapefruit and rosemary essential oils into a morning bath, according to The Aromatherapy Bible.
Grapefruit Bath Salts

Use a two-ounce glass jar.

4 tablespoons pink Himalayan salt
1 teaspoon jojoba oil
1 drop vetiver essential oil
4 drops grapefruit essential oil

Put the salt into the jar. Add the jojoba and essential oils. Stir gently with a glass stirring stick or the handle of a stainless steel spoon. Use the entire jar for one bath.

Source: Aromahead
Soothing Salt Scrub

This body scrub soothes sore Muscles after a workout.

4 tablespoons salt
2 tablespoons jojoba oil
5 drops grapefruit
10 drops frankincense essential oil
One 4-ounce PET plastic jar

Combine the salt and carrier oil in the jar.
Add the essential oils and stir vigorously with a spoon.
Use a small handful while you’re in the shower or bath to scrub away dead Skin and soothe Muscle aches. Do no use on your face. Rinse well.

Source: Essential Living
Feel-Better Bathing Salts

These bath salts have a strong Aroma designed to sooth tired and sore bodies.

40 drops grapefruit
25 drops lavender essential oil
12 drops black pepper essential oil
10 drops basil essential oil
1.5 cups Epsom salt
1.5 cups coarse sea salt

Add all ingredients to a glass jar. Blend thoroughly. Store away from light and heat.

To use: Draw your bath. As you are ready to get in the tub, stir in 1 to 3 cups of the salts. Soak until you feel soothed.

Source: Katie Vie. "Seasonal Self Care." NAHA Aromatherapy Journal, Spring 2013.1, p. 7.
Deodorizing Room Spray

Almost fill a two-ounce spray bottle with distilled water and add the following essential oils:

8 drops grapefruit
7 drops lemon
5 drops orange

Shake vigorously before spraying. Especially good for bathrooms. Source: Essential Living
Insomnia Diffuser Blend

Diffuse this Aromatherapy blend in the bedroom for up to 30 minutes before you go to bed.

2 drops grapefruit essential oil
4 drops ho wood (Cinnamomum camphora) essential oil
3 drops may chang (Litsea cubeba) essential oil
2 drops ylang-ylang essential oil
1 drop vetiver essential oil

Combine the oils in a small bottle. Shake well. Add 2–3 drops of the blend
to an Aromatherapy Diffuser, according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Source: Anna Doxie, RA. "Using Holistic Phyto-Aromatherapy to Support Lyme Disease." NAHA Aromatherapy Journal, Spring 2017.1, p. 48.
Grapefruit Cellulite Cream

In a glass jar, blend 30 drops grapefruit essential oil and 1 cup coconut oil.
Massage a little of the cream into areas of cellulite for five minutes each day.
Source: "Essential Oils DIY Recipes" by Dr. Axe.
Possible Appetite Suppressant

To a 5-ml colored glass euro-dropper bottle add the following essential oils:

35 drops grapefruit
35 drops lemon
30 drops orange
1 drop patchouli

Close cap tightly and shake bottle vigorously to blend essential oils. Let the oils synergize for eight or more hours before using.

To use: Put 1 to 3 drops of the blend on a cotton ball, on a smell strip, or in a small 1-dram colored glass vial of Celtic salt (cap tightly and shake to disperse oils). Inhale the Aroma for 10 to 15 seconds. Repeat as needed.

This blend is also effective diffused into the air.

Source: "Aromatherapy DIY Guide" by KG Stiles, Certified Clinical Aromatherapist
https://www.Aromatherapyandmassage.com/grapefruit-essential-oil.html