Let focus on grapefruit helping fight addictions. Grapefruit when inhaled triggers the body to increase its production of epinephrine and norepinephrine which is the stress hormone released by the Adriana's medulla and nervous system respectively. They are the fight/flight hormones that are released extreme times of stress. During times of withdrawal whether it be food or drug addiction, anxiety and fatigue are a great factor. Among many of grapefruit oil's chemical constituents is Limonene. Limonene is found only in the outer skin of the grapefruit where the essential oil is derived from. Limonene is found to promote weigh loss, treat certain forms of cancer, bronchitis and is used in flavoring of foods.
Inhaling grapefruit oil through a diffuser, or applied topically at the temples or base of the neck is invorgorating, Relieves mental fatigue, and aids in relieving mild depression. To reduce sugar addictions, Grapefruit oil can also be applied topically to the abdomen. For topical applications, it is best to use a carrier oil such as jojoba, coconut, olive or grape seed oil to your grapefruit oil to avoid skin sensitivity. This would be a measurement of 2:1 ratio. Grapefruit oil may be used in drinks or in food; please ensure the essential oil you use is guaranteed not to have any additives.
Something to note, while we are speaking to the powerful benefit of using the essential oil of the grapefruit, know that the juice of the grapefruit, if you are on certain medications do not interact well. Grapefruit can block the action of and enzyme called CYP3A4. This enzyme is found in the small intestine which breaks down (metabolizes) many drugs. In the case of grapefruit juice, can actually can actually block the metabolic process therefore causing the medication to stay in your body longer than needed. Grapefruit juice interaction is primarily due to dihydroxybergamottin, which is found in the pulp and peel, not present in the essential oil. It is noted that you read the pharmacy information provided when filling your prescription and speaking to your healthcare provider regarding fruits that may have this same interaction.
