Grapefruit seed oil is extracted from seeds and sold as grapefruit seed extract. Proponents claim that that grapefruit seed extract has antibacterial properties, and an article in the June 2002 "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" reported that researchers from the University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine found the extract did have antibacterial properties in laboratory testing. However, preservatives in the supplement may actually cause the antibacterial response. This supplement may have toxic or potentially serious side effects; do not take it without first discussing its use with your medical practitioner.
Toxin Exposure
Although several studies have found that grapefruit seed extract has antibacterial properties, the agent responsible appears to be not the grapefruit seed oil but the preservatives used in the product. A 2001 study reported in the "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry" conducted by the United States Food and Drug Administration found that the main ingredient in tested grapefruit seed extract supplements was benzethonium chloride, a synthetic antibacterial substance that can be toxic if ingested or inhaled, Science Lab reports.
Medication Interactions
Grapefruit and products derived from the fruit can cause potentially serious medications reactions. Grapefruit may interfere with enzyme reactions that break down medications. This effect can increase the absorption of certain medications, such as immunosuppressants and blood thinners, increasing the possibility of a toxic reaction from too much medication. If you take prescription medications, do not take this product without your doctor's approval.
Eye,Skin or Stomach Irritiation
When used full-strength, grapefruit seed extract can cause severe eye or skin irritation. Supplements containing benzethonium chloride can also cause eye irritation. If you get this product in your eyes, flush your eyes with warm water and notify your doctor if symptoms such as redness or eye pain appear. Benzethonium chloride in this product can also irritate your skin. If you develop redness, swelling, rash or discomfort after skin contact, notify your medical practitioner. Grapefruit seed extract is very acidic, particularly if not properly diluted. You may experience stomach irritation from the extract itself or from benzethonium chloride in the supplements.
Allergic Reactions
People with an allergy to citrus fruits, especially grapefruit, could have an allergic reaction to this medication. Signs of allergic reactions to food usually occur within two hours after consuming a product and include hives, rash, wheezing, hoarseness, vomiting, itching around the mouth, throat or eyes, difficulty breathing or stomach cramps, In severe cases, lightheadedness, low blood pressure or collapse can occur. Seek immediate attention if you develop a severe allergic reaction after taking this supplement.
References
- Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine: Grapefruit Seed Extract
- "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine:" The Effectiveness of Processed Grapefruit-Seed Extract as an Antibacterial Agent;John Heggers, Ph.D et al.; June 2002
- Consumer Reports: Grapefruit-Seed Extract Hazards?
- " Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry:" Identification of Benzethonium Chloride in Commercial Grapefruit Seed Extracts; Gary Takeoka et al.; July 2001
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Food Allergy
- Science Lab: Benzethonium Chloride MSDS
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