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Foods > Foods List > Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)

Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)

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The grapefruit was first described in the 1750s as the "forbidden fruit" of Barbados. It was introduced to Florida in the 1820s. Most grapefruit in the United States is still grown in Florida. Grapefruit juice has been used in folk medicine for the treatment of diabetes as well as to strengthen the immune system. Grapefruit is also added to cosmetics and hair care products as a fragrance.

Grapefruit has been suggested as a treatment for several conditions, but there is currently insufficient scientific evidence to support the use of grapefruit for any medical disorder. The use of supplemental grapefruit pectin in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and the use of grapefruit seed extract in atopic eczema warrants further scientific investigation before a strong recommendation can be made. There is conflicting research regarding the use of grapefruit for kidney stones.

Grapefruit juice alters the way some drugs are broken down in the liver. Grapefruit may increase the effects of calcium channel blockers, benzodiazepines, immunosuppressants, and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.

Related Terms

Antioxidizers, bergamottin, bergapten, bergaptol, blond grapefruits, citricidal, Citrus decumana, Citrus maxima, Citrus paradisi, Citrus paradisi Macf., Citrus paradisi Macfayden, Citrus x paradisi, citrus seed, citrus seed extract, flavonoids, Fresca®, furanocoumarins, geranylcoumarin, grapefruit juice, grapefruit pectin, grapefruit seed, grapefruit seed extract, naringenin, naringin, nootkatone, organic grapefruit juice, paradisapfel, ParaMicrocidin®, pomelo, pummelo grapefruit, red grapefruit, Red Mexican grapefruit, Rio Red Grapefruit, rutacea, sesquiterpen, shaddock oil, Sun Drop®, toronja, vitamin C, white grapefruit.

Natural Standard Bottom Line Monograph, Copyright © 2009 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This monograph is intendedfor informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. You should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.

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While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

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