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The oil extracted from Grapefruit has a sweet citrusy aroma. Read about its properties, uses and health benefits.

Grapefruit Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Citrus paradisi
Aroma: Sweet and citrusy
Properties: Stimulant, Astringent, Antiseptic, Diuretic
Uses: Anxiety, Digestive problems, Skin disorder, Depression, Cellulite

Of all the variety of food sources we find on Earth, fruits are the most exotic. Certain types of fruits are unique to particular countries. For instance, the kiwifruit originated in Southern China while the jamun or the Indian blackberry is native to India. One such fruit is the grapefruit, which is native to the tropical regions of Asia. It is said that the medieval Arab traders brought them to the European regions. It possesses a refreshing zing and it is a healthy fruit due to its rich source of Vitamin C. However, the next time you fling the rind of this fruit into the bin, think twice! Like all other citrus fruits, the peel contains essential oils that are known to have valuable properties. Having a yellow color and a watery consistency, essential oil of the grapefruit is derived by cold compression of the fresh peel. It has a number of healing properties and is also used it to enhance the flavors of recipes. Read on for more information on the many uses and properties of the grapefruit essential oil.

Grapefruit Essential Oil Use And Health Benefits

Stimulant
Grapefruit essential oil is considered to be a great mental and physical stimulant. Consuming it can make the brain alert and also stimulate the nervous system. Additionally, it is also advantageous for the digestive system because it promotes gastric secretions and bile. Grapefruit essential oil encourages the lymphatic, circulatory and excretory systems to function properly.

Anti-Depressant
The essential oils of all citrus fruits including orange, lemon and lime are used in treating depression. Grapefruit oil too is used to counter despair as it activates hormones that have an uplifting effect on the brain. The oil is said to reduce anxiety and stress levels of the person by inducing a feeling of positivity.

Lymphatic
The lymphatic system in our body has a critical role to play. It ensures that all the bodily systems remain healthy and fit. This is done by eliminating unwanted and toxic substances. Therefore, a very important health benefit of grapefruit oil is that it boosts the functioning of the lymphatic system and helps in faster detoxification. It helps prevent problems such as blood urea, rheumatism, arthritis and gout.

Disinfectant
So diverse is the use of this amazing oil that you can also use it as a disinfectant. This guards the body from any infectious diseases. Its strong antiviral and antimicrobial properties make it effective in combating colon, stomach, intestinal, urinary and kidney infections.

Diuretic
Grapefruit oil can also be used as a diuretic that removes toxins through urination. It helps in maintaining a healthy heart by keeping the blood pressure under control. There is another interesting way in which this oil is useful. If you dig sweets and cannot seem to control your intake, the very smell of this oil reduces that craving!

Aperitif
If you are suffering from a loss of appetite, you can resort to the use of grapefruit oil. This helps in stimulation of your appetite. It best works when taken before a meal.

Antioxidant
Rich in anti-oxidants, the grapefruit essential oil is extremely effective in protecting the body against harmful oxidants. This includes fighting ageing, degeneration of tissues, macular degeneration and loss of vision and hearing.

Antiseptic
The grapefruit essential oil can also be applied as an antiseptic on wounds, cuts, acne and infections to prevent any microbial infections.

Aroma therapists vouch for the good benefits of this invigorating oil. You can find grapefruit essential oil at health foods store. Make it a useful addition to your food or consume it as a supplementary medicine.