HI Maureen
I just bought this oil at the weekend, it is so refreshing and uplifting. I always keep a log of all the oils I buy, this is what I have on Grapefruit Oil.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit oil is extracted from Citrus paradisi (a.k.a. Citrus racemosa amd C. maxima var. racemosa) from the Rutaceae family and is also known as shaddock.
Oil properties
Grapefruit essential oil has a sharp refreshing smell and is pale yellow in color. The viscosity is watery. Like all citrus oils, grapefruit oil should be used within six month of purchase.
Origin of grapefruit oil
Originally from Asia, it is now cultivated in the USA, Brazil and Israel. Grapefruit is a glossy-leaved tree, about 10 meters (30 feet) high, with white flowers and large, pale yellow fruit.
The oil glands are imbedded deep within the peel and yield a small amount of essential oil.
Extraction
Grapefruit essential oil is extracted from the fresh peel by cold compression and yields 0.5-1%.
Chemical composition
The main chemical components are: Paradisiol, Limonene, Gamma Terpinene, Nootketone, Cadinene, Neral and Citronellal.
Precautions
Grapefruit oil is non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing and although listed as non-phototoxic it can irritate the skin if exposed to strong sunlight after treatment.
Therapeutic properties
Some of the therapeutic properties of Grapefruit oil are: antidepressant, antiseptic, aperitif, diuretic, disinfectant, lymphatic stimulant, tonic and anti-infectious.
Uses
Grapefruit has a high vitamin C content and is therefore valuable to the immune system. It helps protect against colds and flu.
It has an effect on obesity; its diuretic properties help with water retention and cellulite.
Grapefruit oil is used in cases of muscle fatigue and stiffness. It has a helpful effect on congested oily skin and acne; it tones the skin and tissues, and promotes hair growth.
It is valuable in cases of stress, depression and nervous exhaustion, as well as headaches.
Summary
Grapefruit oil has great benefits for the immune system, it helps with skin problems, and can be used for muscle stiffness, water retention and for the nervous system.
Burners and vaporizers
In vapor therapy grapefruit oil can be used for: hangovers, headaches, over indulgence and mental tiredness.
Blended oil or in the bath
Grapefruit oil can be used in blended massage oil or diluted in the bath to assist with: cellulite, colds and flu, lack of energy, jet lag, muscle fatigue, overweight, headaches, moodiness and mental and physical tiredness.
Lotions, creams and washes
Used in a base cream, lotion or as a wash, Grapefruit oil can be used for a greasy, congested and acne skin.
Grapefruit oil blends well with
Although most essential oils blend well together, Grapefruit essential oil blends particularly well with: Bergamot, Lavender, Geranium, Palmarosa and Frankincense.