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.

History

This extract 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.

Its benefits were first discovered and later marketed by Dr. Jacob Harich, who was a nuclear physicist. He began his research into benefits of this extract 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.

Benefits For Health

Homemade 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 its benefits, reported over the years.

Cures Infections
In the 1960s, medical researchers discovered the benefits of these seed extracts in curing various types of infections. They found that chemicals like flavonoids, citric acid, ascorbic acid, tocopherols and limonoids, found in this 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 this extract and therefore, it's an essential part of candida cleanse diet. Regular consumption benefits your immune system and protects you from a multitude of pathogens.

Treats Allergic Reactions
It 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.

Helps Cure Stomach Disorders
It can effectively treat many stomach disorders. The gastrointestinal disorders against which it's effective are diarrhea, nausea and an upset stomach.

Maintain pH Levels
Its 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 extract. Hence, consumption of a small amount of grapefruit extract is considered beneficial.

Fights 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.

The list of 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.