Grapefruit Oil

It's a citrus fruit tree known for its semi sweet to sour fruits. When it was discovered it was known as the forbidden fruit. It originates from Asia but it is now cultivated in Israel, U.S.A and Brazil. It's an evergreen tree hat grows to 6m but they can also grow to 15m. It produces white flowers. The fruits are large ad light yellow. Depending on the species the fruit pulp could be either, pink, white or red. The sweetness varies with red being the sweeter variety.

The grapefruit oil is extracted from deep within the peel of the fruit. It's extracted by cold compression from a fresh peel. The oil is also called Shaddock. It has a pale or light red color and it's watery. It has to be used within six months. It has a refreshing, crisp and sharp smell.

Uses

1. On the body

v  Due to the content of vitamin c in the fruit it's deemed to be valuable to the immune system so it's used to protect against cold and flu. To do this drink a glass of water with a few drops of the oil has been added. Take this to prevent the cold or for quick recovery of diseases.

v  It relaxes the body and mind. It alleviates the mood and gives positive feelings. It stimulates the brain to produce hormones thus causing the brain to function better.

v  It's promotes production of urine thus removing toxins from the body. It aids in the removal of extra fat, and sodium thus it's known as a kidney cleanser and through the urination it helps to fight cellulite, blood pressure and arthritis.

v  It's used to treat stomach, colon and urinary throat infections. Add the oil to water and massage the oil to the back and lower abdomen.

v  It's used to treat eating disorders such as bulimia and anorexia when inhaled. It increases the appetite and uplifts the mood.

v  It aid in removing cellulite by increasing the circulation of blood. Mix coconut oil with 1-2 drops and knead into the body every evening.

v  It helps to reduce edema by expecting the retained fluid. Mix the coconut oil and mix 1-2 drops of oil and massage on the area.

2. On the hair

v  When used on hair it makes the hair shiny. Add a drop or 2 of oil to the conditioners and shampoos that you use.

v  It reduces dandruff and a flaky scalp. It helps with blood circulation to the scalp hence promoting hair growth. When mixed with olive oil and massaged into the hair promotes hair growth and makes the hair shiny and healthy.

3. On the skin

v  It's used to treat oily skin due to its ability to remove excess oil from the skin thus it's used as a toner.

It blends well with lavender, frankincense and geranium.

Precautions

It's non sensitizing, non-toxic and non-irritant but can be irritating to the skin if the skin is exposed to sunlight after it's applied. Don’t go in the sunlight the first 12 hours after application.