Grapefruit essential oil is taken from the peel of the fruit and is extracted using the cold compression method. It is one of the most popular essential oils and is frequently used in aromatherapy for lifting the mood and boosting the body’s ability to cleanse itself. It can encourage a sluggish lymphatic system, balance oily skin, and combat cellulite.
The oil itself is a pale yellow color and has a strong citrus aroma which is refreshing and reviving. It blends well with a number of other essential oils including lavender and bergamot.
Oil of grapefruit can be used in a number of ways:
•Diffusing the oil in a vaporizer can have a number of benefits. The scent fills the air and can help to disinfect a room, aid concentration, and clear headaches and hangovers. This is also a good way to use the oil to lift the mood and ease the symptoms of depression.
•For combating cellulite, the oil should be diluted into a carrier oil or moisturizing cream and massaged into the skin. This will also help sluggish circulation and ease any tension in muscles.
Grapefruit oil can act as a diuretic and will stimulate the lymphatic system when massaged into the body. This will help to prevent water retention and encourage the body to expel toxins. This can also be of benefit for conditions such as rheumatism and arthritis where the joints are painful.
•A few drops of grapefruit oil can be added to bathwater, which can help with a number of conditions. By breathing in the vapors from the hot water, cold and flu symptoms will ease and the airways will clear. This can help with headaches and will stimulate the systems of the body.
•All of these benefits will help boost the body’s immune system and help fight off illness and infection.
•Grapefruit oil can be added to a cream or lotion and used to tone oily skin and reduce acne.
•Grapefruit essential oil can be taken internally but must be diluted in water first. Due to the toxicity of some essential oils it is advised to do this only under medical supervision. This can help with digestive disorders and will stimulate the liver and the gallbladder.
•Diluting the oil in a cream, it can also be applied to wounds for its antiseptic benefits.
Making Grapefruit Massage Oil
Aromatherapy massage oils are easily made at home. For every 10 ml of carrier oil, add 5 drops of essential oil. Anti-cellulite oil can be created with 3 drops of grapefruit oil and 2 drops of fennel oil added to 10 ml of grape seed carrier oil, which is easily absorbed into the skin.
Grapefruit oil is generally non-toxic but may cause a reaction if the skin is exposed to too much sunlight after use. Grapefruit juice may occasionally interfere with prescription medications, so if wanting to use oil of grapefruit it is better to check with your doctor to ensure there will be no interaction.
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HERBAL ENCYCLOPEDIA OF REMEDIES