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Glossary |
Grapefruit |
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Citrus paradisi The oldest known mention of grapefruit comes from the 17th century, when this evergreen fruit tree was discovered on the island of Jamaica - hence the Latin name "paradisi". The English term, "grapefruit" stems from a most inaccurate description. A botanist named John Lunan, writing about the horticulture of the island, claimed the large round yellow fruit tasted like grapes. The name stuck, regardless of Lunan’s faulty characterization, however early varieties of grapefruit did look much like huge clusters of grapes, as the fruit hung in a bunch on a single branch.
Lemon-yellow when ripe, the
fruit ranges from 100 to 150mm in diameter and averages
twice as large as a medium-sized orange, with size depending upon the
variety and growing conditions. The main constituents are limonene, paradisiol, neral, geraniol, citronellal and citral. It's actions include; antibacterial, antidepressant, antiseptic (especially airborne), antitoxic, aperitif, astringent, depurative, digestive, disinfectant, diuretic, resolvent, stimulant, and general nerve tonic.
Grapefruit enhances the digestive, circulatory, glandular, urinary, and nervous systems. A stimulating lymphatic massage of grapefruit can promote the appearance of smooth, undimpled skin, enhance circulation, and help regulate healthy body fluid levels. Grapefruit promotes healthy skin and hair, creating an image of perfect health and radiance. It relieves congested and oily skin, having a toning effect on both skin and tissues. For this reason it is a good oil to use when treating cellulitis. It assists the removal of toxic wastes from the body's cells and help regulate the balance of water in the tissues. Also reported to stimulate bile and the digestion of fats would lend it to help with weight loss. It is also used for it's cleansing effect on the blood, kidneys, liver and vascular system and is said to help dissolve gall stones. The aromatic influence of grapefruit helps decrease appetite and balance emotional extremes. Grapefruit is most valuable when stress is present, as it has an overall uplifting effect. It's fresh aroma can help with nervous exhaustion, fatigue and lethargy. It can balance the central nervous system and therefore may help stabilize manic depression. Grapefruit oil has helped relieve migraine headaches, jet lag, alcohol and drug withdrawal, and helps reduce some premenstrual tension. Historical accounts show that this essential oil has great effects on depression and is very refreshing for the spirit. It is said to be euphoric and slightly hypnotic. Care: As with all citrus oils, exercise caution before applying to the skin prior to exposure to the sun and do not use on the skin in direct sunlight. DISCLAIMER: This page is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for accurate diagnosis and treatment by a qualified health care professional. The author is neither a chemist nor an herbalist and has had no medical training whatsoever. The content herein is the product of research, not practical experience. |
The grapefruit tree grows to be as large
and vigorous as an orange tree; a mature tree may be from 4.5 to 8m high. This tree is the least hardy of all the citrus and requires the highest,
most prolonged heat for good growth. A large, mature tree
produces 500 to 700 fruit per year and one grapefruit can weigh up to 1/2kg.
