As the winter months are upon us here in the northern hemisphere, the citrus family of essential oils can be used to provide energy and gently detox feelings of heaviness and sluggishness.
Grapefruit, known as Citrus x paradisi, is from the Rutaceae family; this essential oil is made from the peel and zest of the fruit and then expressed or distilled. As with any citrus oil, it is important not to apply directly to the skin but rather dilute in a carrier oil or use in a roller blend.
Grapefruit is a natural purifier for the air, making this essential oil a great choice to diffuse during the day at home or at work. This oil also has an affinity for the nervous system and can be helpful for stress, anxiety and depression. A lesser known benefit of this oil is that it can also be helpful for sluggish digestion and constipation as well as water retention.
In Ayurveda, grapefruit is used to reduce kapha imbalances. An imbalance of Kapha can look like sluggish mood, lethargy, slow digestion, feelings of heaviness or lack of motivation. Besides diffusing our Restore blend, my favorite way to use white grapefruit is in a body scrub with the addition of black pepper or juniper berry for added stimulation.
Lastly, grapefruit can also be used in cases of oily skin. Grapefruit is astringent, meaning it can be dehydrating to the skin if applied topically to skin that is already dry. It is great to blend with other non-citrus essential oils such as juniper berry, peppermint, geranium or cypress.
Ways to use Grapefruit Essential Oil
- Diffuse Restore Blend for calming energy during the day, at home or in the office.
- Add 1-2 drops of bergamot essential oil to a body or face oil for oil skin
- Breathe in bergamot right from the bottle to increase energy and reduce stress
White grapefruit is a favorite oil of ours because it lifts our mood throughout our work day and through the long season of cold weather when we are spending more time indoors without the windows open and fresh air. Use our Restore Blend to purify the air while enjoying the benefits of energy, peace and productivity. Grapefruit, as well as most of the citrus oils, are also safe to diffuse around children and most pets so you can be sure that everyone in your room will experience the benefits of this essential oil.
