Did you know that grapefruit was originally known as “the forbidden fruit”? Thank goodness they aren’t forbidden anymore, because they contain grapefruit essential oil! But what exactly is grapefruit essential oil? How is grapefruit essential oil made? And what are the benefits of grapefruit essential oil in soap? Keep reading to find out!
What is grapefruit essential oil?
Grapefruit essential oil is a naturally occurring oil from the peel of a grapefruit, specifically from the glands of the flavedo. This oil is what gives grapefruit its smell, and contains more than 200 compounds, two of which are only found in grapefruit essential oil. A true grapefruit essential oil is all natural and does not contain additional chemicals.
How is grapefruit essential oil made?
Grapefruit essential oil is made through a process called cold-pressing, where the grapefruit peels are pricked with needles and then mechanically pressed, squeezing the grapefruit essential oil out of the punctures. Due to the difficulty of extracting grapefruit essential oil compared to other citrus essential oils, grapefruit essential oil tends to be more expensive than many other citrus essential oils.
What are the benefits of grapefruit essential oil?
There are quite a few benefits of grapefruit essential oil. In fact, grapefruit essential oil has been used for thousands of years for applications including topical ointment, skin creams, and aromatherapy. Studies have shown that grapefruit essential oil can help lower stress and hypertension, and the smell of grapefruit essential oil can also help relieve anxiety and help balance moods.
While grapefruit essential oil has benefits when used in aromatherapy, there are even more benefits of grapefruit essential oil in soap. Studies have shown that grapefruit essential oil can be an effective antibacterial and antimicrobial. In fact, when compared against other essential oils, grapefruit essential oil had the strongest antimicrobial effects against MRSA, and has demonstrated the potential to be an effective anti-fungal as well. In addition to those benefits of grapefruit essential oil in soap, the antioxidants and antibacterial properties of grapefruit essential oil can help skin stay smooth, and reduce acne.
Ultimately, there are many benefits of grapefruit essential oil in soap. Not only will your mood be boosted and your mind calmed, your skin and immune system will also reap the benefits of grapefruit essential oil in soap.
Although there are many benefits of grapefruit essential oil, it can be dangerous if used improperly. Do not ingest any essential oils, or apply them topically (on your skin) directly and/or undiluted. Proper instruction and preparation is essential. This blog should not be used as and/or considered medical advice. Before beginning use of essential oils in any capacity, consult a licensed medical professional to see if essential oils are safe for you to use. If any adverse reactions occur when you use any essential oil(s), discontinue use immediately.