When this new fruit was adopted into cultivation and the name grapefruit came into general circulation, American horticulturists viewed that title as so inappropriate that they endeavored to have it dropped in favor of "pomelo". However, it was difficult to avoid confusion with the pummelo, and the name grapefruit prevailed, and is in international use except in Spanish-speaking areas where the fruit is called toronja. In 1962, Florida Citrus Mutual proposed changing the name to something more appealing to consumers in order to stimulate greater sales. There were so many protests from the public against a name change that the idea was abandoned.
| Family | Rutaceae |
| Genus and specie | Citrus Paradisi |
None noted.
Description of the herb grapefruit
A deciduous tree with many varieties, well known throughout the western world.
Fruit, fruit peel and oil.
It has bitter and astringent qualities and has a mild diuretic effect.
- Internal use
- The fruit contains pectin, which is considered good for settling an upset stomach, due to the fibrous content.
- The pectin is also reported to bind carcinogenic molecules to itself in the stomach, to be eliminated later.
- Considered a good source of vitamin C, and the fruit therefore has excellent antioxidant properties.
- The fruit is eaten raw or is used as a jam, marmalade or jelly. The peel is candied and eaten as a sweet.
- External use
- See the use of the essential oil.
- Aromatherapy and essential oil use
- The essential oil of grapefruit (white and ruby) lifts the spirits, is a powerful lymphatic stimulant and removes excess water from the body making it useful in treating cellulite.
- It stimulates the digestive system and kidneys and is good for congested oily skin, especially for acne.
- It has anti-depressant, antiseptic, depurative, diuretic, disinfectant, stimulant and tonic properties.
- Considered to be non-irritant, non-toxic and non-sensitizing.
Safety precautions and warnings
Grapefruit essential oil may cause photosensitivity if used in excess.
