Grapefruit Seed Extract Remedies

The grapefruit tree, native to Barbados and widely cultivated in other warm climates, produces large citrus fruits that hang in bunches, like grapes, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." The extract from the grapefruit seed may be beneficial as a remedy in the treatment of common medical disorders. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not oversee production or sale of grapefruit seed extract, so contact your doctor for advice before using this herbal remedy to treat any medical condition.

External Remedies

Grapefruit seed extract may reduce the symptoms of some skin disorders, including sunburn, cold sores, cracked lips, acne, dandruff, minor cuts and abrasions, dry skin, eczema, rashes and bug bites, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia." Other topical uses include the treatment of nail fungus, athlete’s foot and blisters. Contact a doctor before using this herbal remedy to treat external conditions.

Internal Remedies

The "Gale Encyclopedia" reports that grapefruit seed extract may reduce the symptoms of the flu and colds, intestinal infections, duodenal ulcers, allergies and internal parasites, although clinical studies confirming these benefits are lacking.

Histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis, a fungal infection that settles in the lungs, may cause flu-type symptoms in some people, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Grapefruit seed extract may act as an antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal, reducing the symptoms of histoplasmosis.

A 2002, University of Texas Medical Branch study, “The effectiveness of processed grapefruit-seed extract as an antibacterial agent,” indicated that the extract has antibacterial properties. Additional studies of grapefruit seed extract in the treatment of humans are necessary.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

The University of Maryland Medical Center lists grapefruit seed extract as a potentially beneficial supplement in the treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease, although scientific evidence confirming this benefit is lacking. UMMC suggests taking 100 mg of grapefruit seed extract in supplement form, up to three times per day. Because pelvic inflammatory disease can result in infertility, abscess or pain, use grapefruit seed extract as a supplement to your doctor’s treatment plan, and only under the advice of your doctor.