Grapefruit Oil

What is Grapefruit Essential Oil?

Most people know grapefruit as a subtropical citrus tree (Citrus × paradisi) that yields large, sour to semi-sweet, bitter fruit. But did you know that grapefruit is actually a hybrid resulting from a cross between the sweet orange (C. sinensis) and the pomelo (C. maxima)? As a hybrid, grapefruit was deemed a "forbidden fruit" when it first surfaced in the 1750s, though its popularity has grown exponentially. Indeed, today grapefruit is an extremely popular fruit, with a global annual production of roughly 6.8 million metric tons. 

Grapefruit can be eaten raw, dusted with sugar, or added to salads, salsas, desserts, and other dishes. The essential oil of grapefruit is frequently used in aromatherapy and is prized for its robust antioxidant content and ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Grapefruit essential oil owes much of its therapeutic properties to limonene, its primary active compound, which makes up roughly 88% to 95% of the oil, depending on the brand. Grapefruit oil's aroma is citrusy and fruity and is classified as refreshing and energizing. Because of its lovely light notes, grapefruit oil blends well with many other oils. A few to consider include bergamot, chamomile, clary sage, cypress, geranium, lavender, lemon, lime, orange, and rosemary.  

Benefits of Grapefruit Essential Oil

• Helps Balance Mood
• Promotes Weight Loss
• Relieves Water Retention
• Stimulates Immunity & Detoxification
• Suppresses Appetite & Sugar Cravings

Therapeutic Properties of Grapefruit Essential Oil

Grapefruit oil has been shown to possess potent antibacterial and antimicrobial properties against bacteria such as Staphylococcus, E. coli, antibiotic-resistant MRSA bacteria, and H. pylori, the bacteria responsible for causing stomach ulcers. Grapefruit oil is also ideal for fighting throat and respiratory tract infections, as well as for helping overcome fatigue and muscle and joint pains. Another common use for grapefruit oil is as a weight loss aid, thanks to its ability to boost metabolism, reduce appetite, increase energy, and curb sugar cravings. As a bonus, grapefruit oil is a first-rate diuretic and lymphatic stimulant, so it promotes lymphatic drainage, relieves water retention and swelling, supports digestion, and helps optimize skin health.

Using Grapefruit Essential Oil 

Grapefruit essential oil can be used via diffusion/inhalation, or topically (diluted with a carrier oil). One thing to keep in mind about this oil (and citrus oils in general) is that when applied to the skin, they can cause light sensitivity and predispose to sunburn. Avoid direct sun exposure for 12 hours following topical application. Also worth noting is that grapefruit essential oil should not be used near the eyes, inner nose, ears, or on any areas of the skin that are known to be sensitive or around pets.

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