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Health Benefits of Grapefruit Essential Oil

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The health benefits attributed to Grapefruit essential oil can be categorized into: anti-oxidant, diuretic, disinfectant, stimulant, anti-depressant and digestive.

It is reported that grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) first appeared in Jamaica around the 18th century and was at that time called shaddock. It was grown for ornamental reasons until the late 1800s when the United States began to grow it in California, Arizona, Texas and Florida. Grapefruit essential oil is produced by the expression of the peel of the fruit and is primarily produced in the United States, Israel and Brazil.

Grapefruit Essential Oil as an Anti-Oxidant

Grapefruit is rich in anti-oxidants, including vitamin C, which can help to boost the immune system and have healing effects on stomach ulcers, according to a study presented in 2005. It is believed that Grapefruit essential oil is a protector of the body from harm done by oxidants, harm such as aging, tissue degeneration and mental and physical sluggishness.

The Diuretic Properties of Grapefruit Essential Oil

The diuretic properties of Grapefruit essential oil help to keep the body free from toxins by flushing them out through urination. It is believed to reduce blood pressure and keep the heart healthy. It is known to clean the kidneys of unhealthy deposits and protect against renal infection. Additionally, smelling Grapefruit essential oil is said to help to reduce cravings for sweet foods.

Grapefruit Essential Oil as a Disinfectant

Grapefruit essential oil has anti-viral and anti-microbial properties that make it a strong disinfectant. It protects the body from infections and it is particularly effective on colon, stomach, intestinal, urinary and kidney infections.

Grapefruit Essential Oil as a Mental and Physical Stimulant

Grapefruit essential oil is known as a mental and physical stimulant. It is believed that it has a stimulating effect on the brain, which helps to make the user more active and alert. In addition, it helps to stimulate secretions of gastric juices and bile in the digestive system and stimulates the lymphatic, circulatory and excretory systems.

The Anti-Depressant Properties of Grapefruit Essential Oil

Like all citrus essential oils, including orange, lemon and lime, Grapefruit essential oil is an anti-depressant due to its stimulating effect on certain hormones, which subsequently have an uplifting effect on the brain. It induces a positive feeling that in turn relieves anxiety and stress.

Grapefruit Essential Oil as a Digestive Aid

Grapefruit essential oil has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of digestive issues and eating disorders. It has a calming effect on the stomach, particularly after eating.

Because of all its wonderful anti-oxidant, diuretic, disinfectant, stimulant, anti-depressant and digestive helping properties, Grapefruit essential oil is one of the must-have essential oils for every household.

Caution: Grapefruit essential oil is photo-sensitive meaning that it can cause skin discoloration if applied to skin before exposure to the sun. At this time it is unclear whether Grapefruit essential oil can have a similar effect on certain medications the way grapefruits and grapefruit juice can. Please seek medical advice if you are unsure.

This article was first published at Suite 101 on September 16, 2009 and is republished here as per the terms of our agreement with Suite 101. Visit Suite 101 to read all of our articles.



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