Topical Uses For Grapefruit Essential Oil

Grapefruit is known for its many health benefits. According to "The Doctors Book of Food Remedies" by Selene Yeager, eating grapefruit can help prevent cancer, heart disease and stroke. The essential oil that is extracted from the peel of the grapefruit is believed by many holistic and alternative health professionals to have many topical uses and benefits as well.

Acne Treatment

According to "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils" by Julia Lawless, grapefruit essential oil is useful in the treatment of acne. Grapefruit essential oil balances oily skin and regulates the production of sebum to clear existing acne and prevent future breakouts. "The Aromatherapy Bible" by Gill Farrer-Halls recommends doing a deep-cleansing facial steam, using grapefruit essential oil, weekly. This cleanses the pores and helps remove toxins. To steam, mix five to 10 drops of grapefruit oil into a bowl of boiling water. Hold your face over the bowl, using a large towel to create a steam tent, and steam for five minutes. Pat your face dry and follow up with a flower water for oily skin, such as cornflower water or verbena water.

Massage

Grapefruit essential oil is also believed to have many topical benefits when used in massage oil. According to "The Aromatherapy Bible," grapefruit oil is an excellent choice for a lymphatic drainage massage, as it has shown to be effective in reducing the appearance of cellulite and aiding with water retention. Using grapefruit oil for massage is also believed to have an uplifting and reviving effect on the emotions and to be effective in alleviating tension, stress and nervousness. To make massage oil containing grapefruit essential oil, mix the grapefruit oil with a base oil, such as jojoba, evening primrose or grapeseed oil.

Hair Care

Grapefruit essential oil is reputed to be beneficial to the hair and scalp. According to "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils," grapefruit oil promotes hair growth when massaged into the scalp, and can be used as a tonic. To make a hot-oil treatment, add three drops of grapefruit for every teaspoon of base oil. Jojoba, neem and evening primrose oils are the best base oils for hair. Heat the mixture, apply it to the hair and scalp, and cover the scalp with a hot towel or plastic wrap and let it set for two hours. If a towel is used, replace it with a fresh, warm towel as it begins to cool. Shampoo twice and condition and style as usual.