Grapefruit Seed Extract Benefits

Grapefruit seed extract is touted to be an alternative medicine capable of treating many health problems. This article is all about grapefruit seed extract benefits. Read on to know more about this miracle extract from grapefruits.
Grapefruit Seed Extract Benefits
Grapefruit seed extract is hailed by many nutritionists for its healing properties and health benefits. Today this extract is available in the market and has turned out to be quite popular. For people who are skeptical about this new product, this article discusses grapefruit seed extract benefits, which may convince you to try it out!

History of Grapefruit Seed Extract

Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) is derived from the seeds, pulp and membranes of grapefruits. The grapefruit is a sub-tropical tree of the citrus variety which once upon a time was known (ironically) as the 'Forbidden Fruit' of Barbados. First documented in 1750, the fruit slowly got rid of its 'forbidden' status, when grapefruit benefits were discovered. Almost all parts of the grapefruit are useful in some or the other way. It's known for its tangy juice which is quite popular and its peel is used in aromatherapy oils.

Grapefruit seed extract and its benefits were first discovered and later marketed by Dr. Jacob Harich, who was a nuclear physicist. He began his research into grapefruit seed extract benefits in 1963, in Florida where grapefruit is grown plentifully. Since then, after a brief period of anonymity, it has been rediscovered in the recent past for its versatility and several health benefits.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Benefits For Health

Homemade grapefruit seed extract is simply a mixture of ground grapefruit seed, grapefruit pulp and glycerin. The commercial version of the extract has the same ingredients as the homemade one, with the addition of some synthetic preservatives. It is bitter and acidic to taste. The extract is available in liquid and capsule form. It is not recommended to be consumed as a beverage, but as a medicine. So, 10 - 15 drops a day or three capsules a day, is recommended dosage for maximum benefits. Here are some of the benefits of grapefruit seed extracts, reported over the years.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Benefits in Curing Infections
In the 1960s, medical researchers discovered the grapefruit seed extract benefits in curing various types of infections. They found that chemicals like flavanoids, citric acid, ascorbic acid, tocopherols and limonoids, found in grapefruit seed extract help in fighting various infections like staph, cold, flu, ear infections, sinus infections and tooth disorders.

Other than these, the 'Journal of Alternative and Complementary medicine', reports that grapefruit extract can help in fighting almost 800 different kinds of bacterial, as well as viral infections. Candidiasis can be treated by consumption of grapefruit seed extract and therefore, it's an essential part of candida cleanse diet. Regular consumption of grapefruit seed extract, benefits your immune system and protects you from a multitude of pathogens.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Benefits in Treating Allergic Reactions
Grapefruit seed extract helps in curing allergic reactions like rashes, acne and skin irritation. It can also help in curing itching caused due to poison ivy, ringworm and chickenpox.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Benefits in Treating Stomach Disorders
Grapefruit seed extract can effectively treat many stomach disorders. The gastrointestinal disorders against which it's effective are diarrhea, nausea and an upset stomach.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Benefits in Maintaining pH Levels
Grapefruit seed extract consumption has a natural alkalizing effect on the body and it also provides the body with antioxidants which prevent aging. For optimum health, acidic and alkaline levels in the body need to be in equilibrium. The indicator of acidic or alkaline content is the pH level. To maintain a neutral pH level, the acidic content in body needs to be countered with alkaline content, which is provided by the grapefruit seed extract. Hence, consumption of a small amount of grapefruit extract is considered beneficial.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Benefits in Fighting Colon Cancer
A recent study into the benefits and effects of grapefruit juice extract consumption, on colon cancer patients, has resulted in an interesting finding. They found that grapefruit seed extract consumption suppresses the advancement of colon cancer.

Read more on: The list of grapefruit seed extract benefits is a testimony to its versatility as an alternative medicine. Hope this article has convinced you enough, to try the extract out on your own.

By Omkar Phatak
Published: 11/11/2009
 
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