- Origin
- North America (Caribbean; a cross of Asian citrus species)
- Traditions
- Western herbal medicine
Central America and the Caribbean · Food · № 257
Citrus × paradisi
Food · Central America and the Caribbean
Grapefruit
Citrus × paradisi
A citrus fruit rich in vitamin C. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice inhibit enzymes that break down many medicines. The essential oil is used in skin and hair products, but effects on cellulite or hair growth have not been shown.
Safety notes
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can strongly increase or reduce the effect of many medicines, including certain cholesterol-lowering drugs, blood pressure medication and sedatives. Ask your pharmacist. The essential oil can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Traditional use is no proof of effect; consult a doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take medication or have a medical condition.
Preparation
External: essential oil in cellulite scrub and hair products for thinning hair; seed extract in shampoo.
Use in traditions
The grapefruit arose in the 18th century on Barbados as a chance cross of pomelo and orange and was called the 'forbidden fruit' there. From the 19th century it was grown on a large scale in Florida. Seed extract is sold as a natural preservative, although its effect turned out to come mainly from added synthetic substances.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Natural skin and hair care
Attributed effects
Part of a scrub against cellulite; for thinning hair; seed extract as a preservative.
Preparation and amount
External: essential oil in cellulite scrub and hair products for thinning hair; seed extract in shampoo.
Home, kitchen and folk use
Preparation and amount
Fruit bowl (summer).