Grapefruit Essential Oil

Grapefruit essential oil, with its sweet citrus aroma, is cherished for its uplifting and reviving qualities. This vibrant oil offers a range of therapeutic properties, making it a popular choice for emotional balance, skincare, and digestive support.

Botanical name	Citrus X paradisi
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Family	Rutaceae Family
Characteristics	A mobile yellowish oil with a sweet citrus aroma.
Note	Top note
Used in blend(s)	Inner Strength
Plant parts used	Peel of the fruit
Method of extraction	Cold Pressed
Folklore & History	When grapefruit was first described by Reverend Griffith Hughes in 1750, it was dubbed "the forbidden fruit," alluding to the biblical fruit that tempted Eve in the Garden of Eden. Grapefruit originates from the paradise of Barbados, earning the title of one of the "Seven Wonders of Barbados." In Ayurveda, grapefruit is believed to increase pitta energy and pacify kapha. Inhaling grapefruit essential oil is said to stimulate the heart, solar plexus, and third eye chakras, cleansing the mind and aura while boosting confidence, intelligence, and creativity. Traditional Chinese Medicine categorizes grapefruit as a sour food, thought to be astringent, cooling, and beneficial for generating yin, aiding digestion, and supporting the liver and spirit. Grapefruit is a relatively new member of the citrus family, a hybrid of sweet orange and pomelo discovered in Barbados in the 1700s. Initially called "shaddocks" after Captain Shaddock, who brought citrus trees to Barbados, grapefruit gained popularity in the Caribbean and later in Florida, where commercial cultivation began in 1870. The grapefruit industry expanded significantly in the 20th century, spurred in part by the "Grapefruit Diet" of the 1930s, and has continued to thrive in places like Jamaica, Trinidad, Brazil, and Israel.
Origin	Mexico
Properties	Grapefruit essential oil is known for its antidepressant, antimicrobial, antiseptic, disinfectant, diuretic, and hepatoprotective properties. It supports the nervous system by alleviating depression, lethargy, and nervous exhaustion, providing an uplifting and reviving effect. In the lymphatic system, it aids in reducing fluid retention, obesity, and cellulite. For the digestive system, it helps relieve flatulence, indigestion, constipation, and nausea. The oil is also used in food and perfumery, enhancing products like soft drinks, soaps, detergents, and personal care items. Environmentally, it serves as a natural disinfectant. In the integumentary system, it treats acne, oily skin, and provides a tonic effect on the skin and scalp.
Contraindications	While grapefruit juice should be avoided with certain medications, the essential oil is safe for aromatherapy use for those avoiding the juice. Grapefruit oil poses a low risk of phototoxicity and can be used in skincare preparations. It oxidizes quickly, so it should be purchased in small amounts and used within a short time. Avoid using old or oxidized oils. Always consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant.
Interesting read	All about Pink Grapefruit