Grapefruit Seed Extract Uses

As the name suggests, grapefruit seed extract is obtained from the seeds and dried pulp of the grapefruit. Grapefruit is a subtropical citrus tree that bears bitter fruits that is the source of the grapefruit seed extract. The extract is a yellow colored liquid which has broad spectrum uses. It is a rich source of bioflavonoids and vitamin C and E that boost our metabolic functions. It strengthens our immune system and detoxifies the body. It is very effective against parasites and a host of microorganisms. Despite its benefits, grapefruit seed extract should always be used in a diluted form. Most widely used by naturopaths for years, the numerous grapefruit seed extract uses has now made it easily available in most health stores and clinics.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Uses - For Health

Grapefruit Seed Extract Use 1 - Facial Cleanser
Wash your face with water. Then take a few drops of grapefruit seed extract on the fingertips while your hands are still moist. This would dilute the extract. Rub this liquid on your face in circular motion with your fingertips. Once the extract gets absorbed into the skin, rinse face thoroughly. Some may experience a tingling sensation for sometime after use. However, this is due to the deep cleansing action of the extract. This is a very effective treatment for acne and eczema.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Use 2 - Scalp Treatment
One of the grapefruit seed extract benefits is that it can be used to treat dandruff. For this, add 2 to 3 drops of the extract to the shampoo that you use for each hair wash. Apply the shampoo to your hair and scalp and leave it on for 2 minutes. Then rinse your hair as usual.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Use 3 - For Cracked Lips
Mix a few drops of grapefruit seed extract with a tablespoon of light olive oil. Apply this several times throughout the day to prevent cracked lips.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Use 4 - Mouthwash
Add about 4 to 5 drops of the extract to a glass of water. Use this water to gargle everyday. This solution works as an excellent antiseptic mouthwash that keeps harmful micro-organisms in the mouth under check. It is specifically useful in treating gingivitis.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Use 5 - Nasal Rinse
A nasal rinse can be prepared by adding 4 drops of grapefruit seed extract salt water in a neti pot. Alternately, a solution made by adding 1 drop of the grapefruit seed extract to 1/4 cup of water can be used with the help of a nasal syringe. This nasal rinse is useful in sinus infection treatment.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Use 6 - Hand Disinfectant
Prepare a disinfecting hand wash by adding 2 to 3 drops to moist hands. Now rub the hands together and wash.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Use 7 - Nail Treatment
You can treat nail fungus by adding 7 to 10 drops of grapefruit seed extract to 1 tablespoon of water. Apply this solution all over the nail, cuticle and also under the nails. Continue this treatment twice daily for as long as required. Read more on toenail fungus treatment.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Use 8 - Purify Water
Grapefruit seed extract benefits include its ability to disinfect drinking water. For this, add 3 to 5 drops of the grapefruit seed extract to a glass of water. This water may taste a little bitter due to the extract. To fight cold, flu, candida infections and certain parasites, add 10 to15 drops of the extract to a glass of water or juice. Take this preparation 3 time daily.

Grapefruit Seed Extract Uses - Miscellaneous

• Grapefruit seed extract is effective against aphids, snails, fungus, mildew, and algae growing in the garden.
• It can be used to clean fungus and mildew from shower stalls, tile and swimming pools.
• Adding a few drops of grapefruit seed extract to the carpet or floor cleaning machine would clear off odor due to bacteria and molds. It also helps in killing pathogenic organisms like staph, salmonella and strep in carpets.
• Soak fruits and vegetables for 15 minutes in a sink full of water with 15 to 20 drops of the grapefruit seed extract added to it. Then wash them with normal water. This removes traces of pesticides or any microorganism that may be present on fruits and vegetables.
• Make an all purpose cleaner by mixing 30-60 drops of grapefruit seed extract in 32 oz. of water or your favorite cleanser. Use this as a spray to clean and disinfect all surfaces in the house.

Read more on:

• Grapefruit Health Benefits
• Grapefruit Juice Benefits

These were just a few of the grapefruit seed extract uses. Although its use has not shown any side effects, experts advise against long term use of the extract. There is also a possibility that the compounds present in the extract may interfere with certain medication. Hence, always consult your physician about this aspect of the grapefruit seed extract before starting any medical treatment.