The
cultivated grapefruit tree grows to over 33 feet in height; it has
green, glossy leaves, large, round, yellow fruits and white, aromatic
flowers which are star-shaped. The essential oil of grapefruit is
obtained by the cold expression of the fresh peel of the fruit; it has a
fresh, sweet citrus aroma.
Grapefruit
essential oil is anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, anti-septic,
detoxifying, anti-depressant, immune boosting, skin-toning and mentally
rejuvenating. It is used to treat acne, oily skin, cellulite, muscle
stiffness, water retention, obesity, colds, flu, depression, headaches,
jet-lag, stress and nervous exhaustion. It is good for use in a diffuser
to disinfect a room. It is used in aromatherapy spa treatments to
improve lymphatic drainage and to ease muscle stiffness, by dispersing
lactic acids.