Grapefruit seed
extract (Citrus
paradisi) was first employed as an
antimicrobial agent and disinfectant
within the agriculture industry. It
has also been widely used in veterinary
medicine as a panacea. The most common
commercial preparation is Citricidal. Because of its broad antimicrobial
action, grapefruit seed extract
has been explored for its potential
therapeutic use against conditions
caused by bacteria and fungus.
Grapefruit seed
extract has also been shown to
exhibit certain
antibacterial, antifungal, and
antioxidant activities. The
primary constituents found in grape
seed extract include the polyphenolic
compounds: hesperidin, neohesperidin,
and naringin. [1]
These compounds exist in the
classification of flavonoids and give grapefruit seed
extract its anti-oxidant activity. [2]
The exact mechanism
for its antimicrobial activity has
been discovered in research studies. The grapefruit seed extract
actually disrupts
the bacterial cell membrane, causing the cytoplasmic contents to
leak out. [3]
The entire process occurs in
approximately 15 minutes. Grapefruit seed extract is
thought to be effective
at killing over 800 strains of
bacteria and some 100 strains of
fungi.
Parts Used
Grapefruit seed
extract is derived from the peel,
pulp and seed of the grapefruit.
Grapefruit Seed
Uses
There have not been
any formal research studies testing
the efficacy of grapefruit seed
extract against specific
infections or diseases in humans or
animal models. Because of the
well-accepted antimicrobial activity
of grapefruit seed extract, its use
has been extrapolated for the
following conditions: [4]
-
Grapefruit seed
extract may be helpful for
vaginal Candida and intestinal
Candida. Grapefruit seed extract
is effective at killing Candida
species in vitro, and its use for
the aforementioned conditions has been
supported by anecdotal reports.
-
Grapefruit seed
extract may be helpful for
cases of infectious diarrhea cause
by different strains of bacteria; including those
associated with food poisoning.
-
Grapefruit seed
may be effective at killing
bacteria that are associated with
the development of ulcers in the
stomach such as H.pylori.
-
Grapefruit seed
extract may be effective for
infections in the mouth and gums
caused by bacteria or Candida. It has
been used as a gargle or rinse
with positive results from
anecdotal reports.
-
Grapefruit seed
extract can also be applied
topically for uses as a local disinfectant
and antimicrobial for cuts and
abrasions. It should not be
applied to open wounds.
Grapefruit seed
extract is very potent and
toxic in its undiluted form. It has
been found effective and non-toxic
at a dilution of 1:512, though most
recommendations for use are a 1 - 2%
concentration.
-
Capsule: 100 - 200 milligrams
per day with meals
-
Drops: 5-10 drops
per day with meals
-
Rinse: 5-10 drops
in 2 ounces water (30 second
'swish' and spit)
Again, the undiluted
form is toxic to cellular membranes
and will cause a serious reaction if
oral ingestion or topical
application occurs (e.g. skin
irritation).
|
Grapefruit Seed Toxicities and
Contraindications |
Grapefruit seed
extract is toxic in its
undiluted form. Its use in pregnant
or nursing women has not been
studied, and its use in this
population should be
avoided.
The following table lists various
products that contain a safe and
reliable source of Grapefruit Seed:
|
Manufacturer |
Ingredient |
Amount |
US RDA |
Learn More |
|
NutriBiotic |
Grapefruit Seed Extract |
250 Mg
|
-- |
Click Here
 |
|
Source Naturals
|
Grapefruit Seed Extract
|
0.8ml |
-- |
Click Here
 |