Series 2:Essential Oils: Grapefruit

Since I started off this series with lemon essential oil, I thought it fitting that I should follow up with one of its cousins: Grapefruit.

Grapefruit is a well known diuretic, that helps in fat burning and detoxing, and is even said to help prevent cancer. There have been animal studies that show that limonene helps prevent stomach, liver, colon, as well as skin cancer. This substance is found in citrus fruits such as orange, lemon, and of course grapefruit. In a study by Brigham Young University, an 80.5% cell inhibition value for skin cancer cells was shown with usage of grapefruit essential oil. Purdue University also reported a 80% regression in breast cancer carcinomas with the help of limonene, and little toxicity.

Besides the above, grapefruit also contains antioxidants, ans is an excellent astringent for oily skin. It is beneficial for acne, and is used for muscle fatigue, and helps in hair growth. At home, its anti viral and anti microbial properties also make it an excellent disinfectant. Used in aromatherapy, it also helps with depression, mental fatigue, anxiety, and stress.

Yummy Grapefruit!

So How do we use it? No issue of this series would be complete without the Belle's 2 cents worth. So here goes!

- Use 2-4 drops diluted in a carrier oil and massage to relieve tired muscles

-Add 3- 4 drops into your bathwater in the bathtub. This helps relieves stiffness of joints as well as rheumatism and arthritis

-Add a drop to your water bottle or glass of water to perk up your mind and help with stomach discomfort.  But make sure the essential oil is food grade first!

-Use in aromatherapy burner/ diffuser, diluted slightly with water to wake up the mind, and uplift the spirits. (My favourite way to use it. This also helps kill airborne germs!)

-Add 5-6 drops to 100ml of water, shake well, and use as a mild disinfecting spray.

-Using a wet cotton bud, use one drop and dab onto acne areas. (Please use with caution and dilute further if you have extra sensitive skin. Better still, do a patch test first!)

As always, use with caution on the very young, and very old, and avoid using around pets, especially felines-citrus oils are known to be very toxic to them!

Please pardon this slowcoach being so slow with updates. I am, and will be travelling rather often this holiday season, so updates are slow. But I will try my best, so please be patient with me! (Will answer to comments soon, please bear with me!)

See you back here soon, my beauties!