(Citrus paradisi) Traditionally used to support healthy lymph, liver, digestion and fluid levels, soothe minor skin issues, ease mental fatigue and jet lag.
Research Purchon notes that "a study found that grapefruit essential oil shows promise against hospital-acquired infections and antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This suggests that it is an effective topical antiseptic treatment option, even for antibiotic-resistant strains such as MRSA and antimycotic-resistant Candida species." (Purchon does not site the specific study.)
In Regard to using Statin Drugs, Is Grapefruit Essential Oil the same as Eating Grapefruit? Research shows that dihydroxybergamottin found in grapefruit juice blocks a special enzyme in the wall of the intestine that prevents many drugs from being absorbed into the body making it easier for these medications to pass from the gut into the body, raising the blood levels of these drugs, which can create dangerous, toxic effects. So the question is asked, "What about the essential oil of Grapefruit?" You cannot equate the use of a whole herb or fruit with the use of an essential oil. Essential oils are only a small fraction of the whole plant. They are only the volatile aromatic molecules, which is typically less than 1% of the plant. Grapefruit juice is from the meat of the fruit, while essential oils are expressed or distilled from the rind. They are not one and the same.
Robert Tisserand wrote: A pharmacist asked about whether grapefruit oil would interact with statins, cholesterol-lowering drugs, as grapefruit juice does. My answer was no, since the main compound in grapefruit juice responsible for drug interactions is not found in the essential oil.
Phototoxic Caution: Tisserand notes that Grapefruit is a slightly photosensitizing oil but is considered safe at 4% dilution, which is about 36 drops per ounce of carrier.
Inhalation: Diffuse or use a personal Nasal Inhaler
Internal: Grapefruit is suitable for internal use within safe parameters if such use is deemed appropriate. We feel that internal use is rarely *needed* and should only be used with respect for how concentrated the oils are. HEO does not advocate internal use of essential oils without appropriate knowledge and understanding of how to administer, for what purpose, how much, which essential oils, safety concerns and so on. In our experience, essential oils are generally more effective used topically with proper dilution or inhaled. Kurt Schnaubelt Ph.D. notes that "French aromatherapy literature contains many references to using oils internally." He goes on to note that "generally 1 drop is always enough when ingesting essential oils." A potential toxicity hazard could occur when untrained people use essential oils orally and ingest too much. Keep in mind that while medical doctors or health care practitioners may prescribe essential oils for internal use, they are trained and experienced in the safe application of essential oils. It is not a matter of using "French aromatherapy" or "British" methods, it's a matter of experience and appropriate application. Click here for information about internal usage.
