The Benefits and Uses of Grapefruit Essential Oil
Essential oils were used for thousands of years. People in ancient times relied heavily on them since they were the only source for healing. The natural essential oils from plants were used to soothe issues like stomach pain, skin irritations, headaches and muscle cramps. And they are still used for the exact same reasons today! Although modern medicine offers us various ways for treatment, still, nature appears to remain the best source of health, if used wisely.
If you’re a fan of essential oils, then you have probably heard about grapefruit essential oil. Its strong fresh and citrus smell makes it among the favourite for various uses from topical onto your skin, to diffusing and even actually consuming it in your water, smoothies or other desserts. Here are some excellent ways to make the best use of essential grapefruit oil.
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The Chemistry of Grapefruit Essential Oil
The main chemical component in this oil is d-Limonene, which is in the monoterpenes group and has strong uplifting aromatic characteristics. The uplifting advantages found in limonene make Grapefruit essential oil an ideal oil for aromatic use. Limonene also can dissolve oils, which makes it a popular ingredient in hand cleansers. You can combine this oil with Geranium, Lavender, peppermint, rosemary, Bergamot, Ylang Ylang and Frankincense oils.
It Boosts Metabolism
Grapefruit is famous for its ability to maintain a healthy metabolism. So, besides your healthy diet, and regular exercise, you can support your metabolism by adding one to two drops of grapefruit oil to your water. In addition to the lovely flavour, you’ll feel how this essential oil gives you a vitalizing boost.
And the great thing is that you can take the grapefruit essential oil wherever you go in your purse or pockets. This way you will remind yourself to use it anywhere from work, brunch with friends, to a quick break after a workout at the gym.
Always be sure to seek essential oil that is safe for consumption. Also, be sure to talk to your doctor before purchasing this oil, especially if you already have some stomach issues.
Topical Use
You can use this oil to massage your body. It will help you relax after a long day, offering you a great aromatherapy experience with its light and uplifting scent. Just make sure to avoid the sun in the next twelve hours after using this oil, since your skin will be more prone to burning.
Speaking about skin, grapefruit essential oil is an excellent addition to your skincare routine as it’s great for brightening the skin and reducing blemishes and wrinkles. Although it may be found as an ingredient in certain skin care products, you can get it separately and use it that way. However, it’s important to talk to a dermatologist first. This oil may be too strong for some people, so it may cause rashes. Be sure to follow the instructions of your doctor and the ones on the product as well. Never apply it directly on damaged skin.
May Suppress Hunger
A recent study showed that the scent of grapefruit essential oil enhanced activity in the gastric vagal nerve in rodents. This resulted in a lowered appetite. So, if you really want to lose some weight but you are bumping into many challenges along your way, maybe you should give this essential oil a try.
Sharpens Your Focus
The citrus smell of grapefruit will help sharpen your focus when you need it the most. Oftentimes our mind tends to wander, especially during important moments such as studying or working for a long time. If you want to improve your focus, just add a few drops of the grapefruit essential oil in the diffuser or simply rub a small amount on your palms and breath it in.
Improves Your Mood
Strong citrus scents like grapefruit are known to boost the mood instantly. It smells fresh enough to make you feel like actually do something (even if that is actually doing your errands). This scent isn’t recommendable before bed, since it may stimulate your brain and sharpen your focus when your mind needs to relax.
Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Effects
Grapefruit essential oil has strong antibacterial and antimicrobial effects. According to test-tube studies, grapefruit displayed antimicrobial properties against potentially harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Escherichia coli. Essential oils have one of the most powerful oils against MRSA, which is a group of bacteria that’s usually harder to treat (due to its resistance to common antibiotics).
What Are the Possible Side Effects?
Even though you can purchase this oil over the counter at a pharmacy or in your local essential oil shop, make sure to know well how to use it. it. It shouldn’t be taken internally without the supervision of a healthcare professional. Internal use of grapefruit essential oil may have toxic effects. Always make sure that the oil is safe for internal use.
If your skin is prone to allergies, or you have damaged skin, always do a test on a small area of your skin (the inner part of the forearm is best). If in the next 24 hours, there is no reaction, you can use it freely.
However, some people may be allergic to grapefruit essential oil. In this case, it’s best to blend it with a carrier oil (such as sweet almond oil or jojoba oil). The safest way (unless you have any problems with your lungs) is to drop a few drops in the diffuser so the room can get that fresh citrusy scent.
