Grapefruit Seed ExtractGrapefruit seed extract comes from the fruit of the grapefruit tree. Grapefruit is a commonly known fruit around the world. Originally from Asia, the deliciously tart fruit is now grown in the United States, Israel and Brazil. Another name for grapefruit seed extract is citrus paridisi. The leaves of the grapefruit tree are quite glossy while the tree itself grows to be around 30 feet high with white flowers and mainly light yellow fruit. In the year 1750, a man named Reverend Griffith Hughes became aware of the grapefruit and called it ‘the forbidden fruit’ in relation to the fruit that tempted Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. The fruit carried the name ‘forbidden fruit’ for quite sometime afterwards. In the world of aromatherapy, the essential oil from the grapefruit is used for its renewing qualities and uplifting effects. Many specialty stores carry room sprays with grapefruit oil as it is said to create a happy and relaxed environment. It is also believed to be able to relieve nervous exhaustion and stress. Grapefruit oil has been recognized as having a balancing effect on emotions. Grapefruit has proven to be a versatile and often overlooked gift from nature. We use it to scent our homes, in our cleaning solutions and as a preserve in our foods. It comes as no surprise that grapefruit seed extract is versatile in its medicinal use as well. Grapefruit seed extract is heavily concentrated and is usually diluted with water. You should avoid any contact with the eyes when using grapefruit seed extract. Grapefruit seed extract is known to fight bacteria, viruses, protozoa and yeasts. It has also been used throughout history in the treatment of parasites. A wonderful benefit of this natural extract is that it is basically nontoxic and cannot be absorbed into tissues so it can be used for a longer time than most medicinal extracts. This has proven to be quite advantageous in that the fight against two very difficult yeast to kill called candida and giardia yeast. Grapefruit seed extract has been shown to maintain important antibiotic effects in studies using tube tests. But it was farmers who originally used grapefruit seed extract to suppress the growth of mold on their equipment and machinery. Cosmetic manufacturers have added the versatile extract to their products as a preservative. The most recent usage for this extract has been in promoting the treatment of vaginal yeast infections caused by the naturally present bacteria candida. A little comprehended intestinal condition called candida overgrowth syndrome has also been treated with grapefruit seed extract. Grapefruit seed extract has also been used successfully in the following capacities. Check with your doctor before trying any of these home remedy ideas. 1. Throat gargle: Add one drop of the extract into 3 ounces or more of water. Gargle as often as desired and use when necessary. 2. Nasal rinse: Add one drop of the extract to 6 ounces of water. Fill one nostril at a time using an eyedropper while the head is tilted back. Nod your head back and forth to ensure the mixture is entering the passages. Relax your head and allow the solution to drain. There are also premade nasal sprays made with this extract, and are available at your health food store. 3. Vaginal rinse: Add 1 to 2 drops of the extract into 8 ounces of water. Use as a douche one time each day for about a week. 4. Scalp Treatment: Mix 2 to 3 drops of the extract into you shampoo. Massage into your scalp without scratching and leave on for at least 1 minute. Rinse thoroughly. Grapefruit seed extract has many uses and may already be an ingredient in some of the products you use in your home. This extract has some of the most beneficial uses and some of the simplest ways in which to apply it. It truly is a versatile remedy. Some products that we take ourselves and
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