Grapefruit, scientifically known as Citrus Paradisi is an energizing, aromatic fruit that is known to be a hybrid of Pomelo (Shaddock) and Sweet Orange. The botanical name of the fruit translates to ‘Fruit of Paradise’, no wonder the fruit comes with heavenly health benefits in addition to a delicious treat of tangy, sweet and bitter flavor.
The 3 most common varieties of grapefruit are the red, pink and white grapefruits, which are conveniently classified according to the color of their pulp. Grapefruit gained popularity with the famous ‘Grapefruit Weight Loss Diet Plan’ that promised a loss of nearly 10 lbs of weight in 10 days. It is very popular in NYC and falls behind only potatoes, lettuce, oranges and apples in consumption.
Grapefruit brings enormous health benefits, as it is low in calories, moreover high in fiber, phytonutrients, vitamins, lycopene, calcium, potassium, phosphorous and lycopene. It is also a good source of energy producing vitamins, B1 and B5.
It is widely sought after by people who are aiming to lose weight through diet, since it is rich in fat burning enzymes, contains less sodium and high amount of water; all qualities necessary for a successful weight loss program. Eating fresh grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice is known to reduce the weight to a great extent.
Being a citrus fruit, it is rich in vitamin C, plus a rich source of antioxidants which can well tackle the damage caused by free radicals in the body, while at the same time boosting the immunity against infections and diseases.
A phytonutrient known as limoniod present in grapefruit is excellent detoxifier that helps the liver to expel toxins from the body. The glucarate found in the pulp is known to inhibit the breast cancer tumor growth.
Research has established that grapefruit reduces the level of LDL (bad cholesterol) in the blood, whereas the red pulped grapefruit is also known to lower triglycerides.
Grapefruit is known to help fight health conditions like:
- Kidney Stones
- High level of LDL
- Breast, prostate and colon cancer
- Fever and cold
- Digestive Problems
- Reflux and acidity
- Cardiovascular problems
- Urinary disorders
- Sleep problems
Extract the juice from grapefruit. It can be used to as an antibiotic to treat minor cuts and wounds, yeast infections, cleanse oily skin and hair.
Grapefruit Essential Oil
The grapefruit essential oil is extracted from the peel of the fruit through the compression cold method. The oil is used in aroma therapy to heal depression, mellow temperament and relax the mind, enhance the mood, and alleviate stress. It is known to reduce cellulite in the body, in addition to reducing fever, cold and muscular tension. It is used to treat blemishes, excess oil, black heads, pimples and acne on skin.
Peel the rind or scoop out pulp from ripe grapefruit. Add honey to reduce bitterness. Blend it to a smooth paste in a blender adding a cup of water. Having the juice without straining has high health benefits, though you will compromise on taste.
Reaction with Drugs
Unfortunately, grapefruit is known to cause undesirable interactions with some prescription medications. Thus, it is important to consult a doctor before consuming this fruit if you are on medication. Nearly 85 such drugs, including statin drugs, Valium, xanax, common cholesterol-lowering drugs, anticancer agents, birth control pills, psychiatric medications, and immunosuppressant medications are known to have deadly effect when combined with grapefruit.