Grapefruit - Citrus paradisi

The Grapefruit tree often grows some 10 metres or more, and has glossy dark green leaves with large yellowish fruits.

The essential oil is produced by expression from the peel, but unlike other citrus oils, grapefruit is not a photosensitiser. It does however have quite a short shelf life as it oxidises quickly.

Grapefruit is high in vitamin C, making it valuable protection against a range of infectious illnesses, and has antiseptic, antitoxic, astringent, bactericidal, diuretic, depurative properties, and is a stimulant of the lymphatic and digestive system.

Valuable for treating cases of fluid retention, and cellulite, it is an effective detoxifier. A massage oil with grapefruit oil is a valuable treatment for post-exercise as it helps disperse lactic acid from the muscles, thereby reducing aches and pains - good news for dancers and anybody who demands a lot out of their physical body. It also tones skin and tissues.

Grapefruit is an excellent antidepressant - must be all that sunshine it stores up - and has been used for effectively treating sufferers of S.A.D syndrome,

In skin care treatment grapefruit is most valuable in treating dull, congested skin. It has a lovely tonic effect on the skin, as well as the scalp where it promotes hair growth.