Grapefruit (Citrus paradise)
Grapefruit essential oil has an uplifting, sweet, refreshing and slightly sharp aroma.
The grapefruit plant is from the Rutaceae family, and is sometimes referred to as ‘shaddock’. The tree has yellow fruits and white flowers. The essential oil is extracted from fruit, where the oil glands are embedded in the peel.
The extraction
Grapefruit oil is extracted using the expression method. Contrary to common presumption, grapefruits yield much less oil than the other citrus fruits (such as the Sweet Orange), so more fruits are required for the same amount of oil.
Affects
Grapefruit essential oil is a refreshing oil, used to help stimulate lymph flow, as a kidney cleanser and as a diuretic, therefore it is very useful for helping with circulation, increasing blood flow and reducing the appearance of cellulite.
The oil is also used on ‘troubled’ skin, such as acne and eczema due to its ability to increase flow of nutrients into the skin cells and help with the elimination of waste products away from the skin. It is also a good skin toner.
Grapefruit essential oil can be used to uplift the mood and promote lightness of spirit in times of heaviness, tension and concern.
History
Grapefruit is said to be a hyrbird from the orange plant, and was cultivated in the West Indies during the 18th century. It is also known as shaddock fruit, named after the Captain who introduced the fruit to this part of the world. In the 1930’s the fruit was commercialised in Florida in the USA, which remains the largest supplier of the oil.
Suggested directions for use:
Add 6-10 drops in a bath.
Mix 5 drops with water to use in an oil burner.
Mix 6-10 drops with hot water as an inhalation.
Mix 5 drops per 10ml of carrier oil for massage.
Add to natural skincare products.
Precautions:
Do not take internally.
Keep away from children and eyes.
If pregnant or have a medical condition consult your practitioner before use.
If oil gets into eyes splash out with water, seek medical advice if necessary.
If unfamiliar with essential oils seek advice from a practitioner.
Chemical constituents
Geraniol, Linalool (Alcohol), Citral (Aldehyde), Limonene, Pinene (Terpenes).
Blending
Grapefruit essential oil blends well with basil, bergamot, cedarwood, chamomile, citronella, ylang ylang, frankincense, geranium, lavender, jasmine, palmarosa and rose.
