Grapefruit Seed Extract is a nutrient-rich essential oil extract made from grapefruit seeds and pulp. It was originally used in agriculture to prevent mold growth on foods, then as an antiseptic for surgical equipment in hospitals. Now it is widely used as an anti-microbial and anti-fungal treatment for a broad spectrum of pesky maladies
Pure GSE is rich in phytochemicals including flavonoids, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), tocopherols (Vitamin E) and naturally-occurring citric acid that contributes to its value as a preservative and disinfectant. Commonly used in cosmetics and skin cleansers, the protective compounds exert strong antioxidant actions, combating harmful effects from free radicals that oxidize and destroy healthy cells. The ascorbic acid improves the structural integrity of the skin by facilitating exfoliation and collagen production, an essential recovery process that maintains the elasticity of the skin and helps in regenerating its cells when wounded. GSE displays anti-inflammatory properties that encourage the skin to heal
Grapefruit Seed Extract has additionally been used in a wide range of shower gels, soaps, shampoos, face masks, and deodorants successfully. It is a frequently found as an ingredient in consumer home care and cleaning products, including cleaning sprays, laundry detergents, and disinfecting wipes
Source: Grapefruits! Extracted directly from the seeds and juiceless pulp
Benefits:
Anti-fungal: GSE has long been used as a remedy to treat the stubborn fungal infection Candida Albicans. It is safely used internally and topically for infections like tinea pedis or athlete’s foot. It is effective against a range of other environmental molds and toxic yeasts
Antioxidants: Grapefruit seed extract is pure essential oils, flavonoids, polyphenols and vitamins – these are all powerful antioxidants which help protect the body from free radicals. The bitter taste of GSE comes from the polyphenol called Naringin – this is found in very high concentrations in grapefruit seeds. Naringin improves upon the antioxidant qualities with anti-carcinogenic and cholesterol-lowering activity. It is being studied in the treatment of cancer and diabetes
Natural Antibiotic: The American Research Institute reports that GSE is effective against over 800 bacterial and viral strains and 100 strains of fungi. This makes it a suitable treatment for persistent sinus infections, throat or oral infections, open wounds, acne treatment protocols, and can be safely used as a natural remedy for your pets' conditions
Digestive Health: GSE is naturally acidic which helps restore the natural pH of the stomach and gut. Candida and gut dysbiosis can throw off the delicate balance of healthy gut flora, using GSE internally can help restore optimal levels for improved digestion
Risks: GSE is known to have many drug interactions, especially with blood thinning medications like Warfarin. When taking prescriptions, make sure to consult with a healthcare professional before taking GSE as an internal remedy
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before taking GSE. Side effects are rare however discontinue use immediately in the event of any adverse effects
Sustainability: Grapefruits are a very easy fruit to grow throughout temperate and tropical regions. There is no current shortage and extracting GSE from the seeds and pulp is a simple process
Processing: Although processing varies by company and manufacturer, it is generally a practice of grinding grapefruit seeds and squeezing juiceless pulp to remove essential oil extracts that are mixed with glycerin. Depending on the manufacturer, the extract can additionally be heated with ammonium chloride and vitamin C, or blended with hydrochloric acid and natural enzymes are added. It is then cooled and packaged by the company
Resources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19062465 - Treatment for blood glucose and cholesterol
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15865506 - Effects in treating urinary tract infections
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16425415 - Gut health and stress reduction
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15800396 - Benefits to gut health
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25869516 - Antioxidant benefits
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12165190 - Antibacterial properties
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12165191 - More on antibacterial properties