Grapefruit seed extract, or GSE, possesses potent antimicrobial and antioxidative properties. GSE is derived from the citrus fruit's seeds, pulp and white membranes. Yugoslav-born physicist Jacob Harich developed GSE in the early 1970s during a search for natural substances that could provide protection against infection by health-threatening microorganisms. GSE's medicinal properties make it a useful tool in the prevention and treatment of various ailments; however, check with your doctor before self-treating with GSE.
Gastroprotective Properties
In an effort to determine what, if any, gastroprotective properties GSE might provide, a team of German, Polish and Ukrainian researchers conducted an animal study in which GSE was applied to gastric mucosal lesions in laboratory rats. Researchers induced the lesions through topical application of 100 percent ethanol and also by exposing some animals to water immersion-restraint stress that led to gastric ulceration. In findings published in the November 7, 2005, issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology, researchers report that GSE exhibits potent gastroprotective properties when applied to both ethanol- and stress-induced gastric lesions.
Promotes Oral Health
GSE's antimicrobial properties can play a valuable role in the promotion of oral health. C. J. Puotinen, author of "Nature's Antiseptics," suggests a few ways to use the extract. Add a drop of GSE to your toothpaste before brushing your teeth. You can also add a drop or two to commercial-brand mouthwash before rinsing. If you're inclined to do it yourself, create a homemade mouthwash by combining 10 to 15 drops of the essential oils of cinnamon, cloves, ginger and/or nutmeg with 1 tsp. of GSE. You can then dilute the mixture to the strength you desire. Alternatively, keep the mixture in concentrated form, apply a few drops to your toothbrush and brush teeth and gums thoroughly.
Relieves Skin Disorders
GSE's medicinal properties are not confined to internal applications but are equally effective when the substance is applied topically. Jon Barron, author of "Lessons from the Miracle Doctors," reports that GSE offers significant relief from the symptoms of such skin-related disorders as acne, athlete's foot, cold sores, cuts and wounds, warts, rashes and infections. He says that some physicians claim to have witnessed a deactivation of the herpes simplex virus within 10 minutes after a topical application of GSE. If athlete's foot is a problem, soak the affected foot in a solution consisting of 1 tsp. GSE to 1 gal. warm water for 15 minutes daily, suggests Joanne Eglash, author of an article in the February 2004 issue of Vegetarian Times.
Disinfectant Properties
GSE can disinfect surfaces believed to be contaminated by bacteria, viruses, fungi and other micropathogens. John Brighton, author of "Natural Forms of Defense Against Biological, Chemical and Nuclear Threats," recommends a solution that combines 30 to 40 drops of GSE with 1 qt. of water. Use this solution to clean hands and to disinfect surgical instruments, room surfaces and linens.
References
- "World Journal of Gastroenterology"; Grapefruit-Seed Extract Attenuates Ethanol- and Stress-Induced Gastric Lesions via Activation of Prostaglandin, Nitric Oxide and Sensory Nerve Pathways; Tomasz Brzozowski et al.; November 7, 2005
- "Nature's Antiseptics: Tea Tree Oil and Grapefruit Seed Extract"; C. J. Puotinen; 1999
- "Lessons from the Miracle Doctors"; Jon Barron; 2008
- "Natural Forms of Defense Against Biological, Chemical and Nuclear Threats"; John Brighton; 2002
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