I love my job! I get so excited when I learn new and cool facts about the simplest remedies in our world. What draws me to nutrition so much is how our physical bodies are so connected to earth, and how nature provides us with beautiful fruits and vegetables and the affects they have on our body. In many aspects of my life, simplicity is my favourite. The simple nature of only adding olive oil and fresh lemon juice to a salad. It’s a beautiful thing. My latest ‘simple trick’ comes from the luscious, pink citrus fruit, grapefruit.
This powerful fruit has been in the medical field since the early 1970’s and has been one of the most heavily researched citrus fruit out there. In a 1990 study, grapefruit seed extract was found effective in killing over “800 bacterial and viral strains and 100 strains of fungus”. However, as a non-toxic, natural remedy, it had none of the side effects of other treatments. Known for having antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral and antibiotic properties, this is another addition to my ‘medical cabinet’ hidden in my backpack.
Derived from grapefruits pulp, seeds, and white membrane, this bitter substance is used topically and internally. Due to the extracts broad-spectrum anti-pathogenic effect, this powerful stuff can solve intestinal problems by simply adding a few drops to your water.
Due to the places that I travel, digestive and intestinal imbalances are more common to pop up than the more developing countries. Taking the risk of travelling in such areas, I am always seeking natural ways to fight such. Well, personally I have found the perfect remedy. This extract is powerful against bacterial and viral strains, as well as single-cell organisms (parasites). As simple as adding a few drops to your water a day, protect your intestinal flora and save yourself a sketchy clinic visit lost in the jungle with a language barrier to top it off.
I cannot leave out the other incredible healing properties that GSE has to offer. From one side of the world to another, a common ailment GSE is used for back home in Canada is Candida. Candida is a yeast-like fungal organism found in small amounts in the intestinal tract. The amount of candida can increase due to environmental factors, dietary habits and climates. Symptoms of candida over-growth include constant headaches and fatigue, depression, multiple types of food reactions or allergies and brain fog. These organisms feed on sugar, or anything that converts to sugar in the digestive tract (refined cards, pasta, pastries and cookies). They also thrive in a damp environment, and living in a city like Vancouver, it is quite common to have candida-overgrowth. GSE’s antifungal properties help combat Candida infestations by killing the yeast cells that have taken over the intestines.
The great thing about taking grapefruit seed extract for digestive complaints is that it leaves the beneficial bacteria in your system intact (very important for immunity). Compare that to other antimicrobial treatments that can leave your intestine empty of these helpful organisms.
I recommend taking the dosage appearing on the bottle itself. Because GSE is so popular, many companies are selling synthetically made remedies. Always be sure to buy high-quality supplements from natural health food stores or organic groceries to ensure you are feeding your body top-notch products.
I have complied a list of associated health benefits performed by Grapefruit Seed Extract:
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Powerful natural antiseptic
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Antiviral and anti-fungal agent
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Preventitive towards cancer
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Colds and flus (take at first signs of cold + flu)
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Dandruff
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Earcaches
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Sore throats (dilute a few drops in water and gargle)
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Promotes healing of wounds and scars
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Cholesterol lowering properties
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Psoriasis
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Muscle fatigue
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Promotes hair growth
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Toning the skin
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Reduces acne and oily skin
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Treating headaches
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Stress relief
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Water purifier (excellent for hikes, trekking, over-night camping. Add 10-25 drops/gallon, shake and let stand for a few minutes)
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Environmentally friendly fruit and vegetable wash for removing toxins
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Great general immune booster
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Can be added to soaps for an added anti-microbial and viral effects
Don’t forget, this fruit is also delicious in its pure form! Slice up and sprinkle with cinnamon for breakfast or a mid-morning snack!
**Nutrition facts**
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Contains moderate levels of B-Complex (essential in energy generation)
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Rich in dietary fiber (acts as bulk laxative)
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Rich in Vitamin A (key for good vision and and a healthy immune system)
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Excellent source of Vitamin C – powerful natural antioxidant
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100g of fresh grapefruit contains adequate amount of potassium electrolyte which helps regulate heart rate and blood pressure
GRAPEFRUIT AND THYME LEMONADE
*Summer in a glass*
1 cup organic raw cane sugar
1 bunch fresh thyme sprigs (about 8), plus more for garnish
6 cups water
2 1/2 cups fresh organic grapefruit juice, about 4
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, about 1 large lemon
Bring sugar, thyme and 1 cup of water to a boil. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
Let mixture cool completely then strain into a pitcher.
Add 5 cups water, grapefruit and lemon juice and stir until well combined. Poor into individual glasses and serve with ice and a fresh thyme sprig, if desired.
Pucker and Enjoy!
Wellness Wednesday Wisdom from nutritionist and Breathe in Life guide Meghan Trompetter.
