Plant Part Used
Seed and pulp extract.
Introduction
Grapefruit seed extract is used widely in the industrial, agricultural and cosmetic industries. Most of these uses center on grapefruit seed’s disinfectant properties. As a dietary supplement, grapefruit seed has been used as an antifungal and as an antibacterial. It may also be useful for restoring the health of the gastrointestinal system.
Dosage Info
Dosage Range
100mg, 1-3 times a day with meals.
Liquid: 5-10 drops, 2-3 times a day with meals.
Oral rinse: 5-10 drops in water, 2-3 times a day, swish and expectorate.
Most Common Dosage
100mg, 3 times a day with meals.
Liquid: 5 drops, 3 times a day with meals.
Oral rinse: 5 drops in water, 3 times a day, swish and expectorate.
Standardization
[span class=doc]Standardization represents the complete body of information and controls that serve to enhance the batch to batch consistency of a botanical product, including but not limited to the presence of a marker compound at a defined level or within a defined range.[/span]
Not applicable.
Reported Uses
Grapefruit seed extract is best known for its disinfectant properties. Scientists think grapefruit seed extract may work by entering the membrane of invading bacteria and depriving them of a food source. (1)
Grapefruit seed may also inhibit the growth of two bacteria specie that can cause gastrointestinal ulcers, H. pylori and C. jejuni. Studies suggest that inhibition of these bacteria can prevent such ulcers. (2) Grapefruit seed may also inhibit the growth of Candida, a fungus that can affect bowel health and destroy the normal, helpful bacteria that reside in the gastrointestinal system. (3)
Toxicities & Precautions
Introduction
[span class=alert]Be sure to tell your pharmacist, doctor, or other health care providers about any dietary supplements you are taking. There may be a potential for interactions or side effects.[/span]
General
This dietary supplement is considered safe when used in accordance with proper dosing guidelines.
Allergy
Some individuals experience an allergic reaction when taking this dietary supplement. Discontinue use and call your doctor or seek medical attention if you have fast or irregular breathing, skin rash, hives or itching.
Side Effects
Side effects are possible with any dietary supplement. This dietary supplement may cause diarrhea. Discontinue use if this side effect occurs. Tell your doctor if these side effects become severe or do not go away.
Pregnancy/ Breast Feeding
To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects related to fetal development during pregnancy or to infants who are breast-fed. Yet little is known about the use of this dietary supplement while pregnant or breast-feeding. Therefore, it is recommended that you inform your healthcare practitioner of any dietary supplements you are using while pregnant or breast-feeding.
Age Limitations
To date, the medical literature has not reported any adverse effects specifically related to the use of this dietary supplement in children. Since young children may have undiagnosed allergies or medical conditions, this dietary supplement should not be used in children under 10 years of age unless recommended by a physician.
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References
- Ionescu G, et al. Oral Citrus seed extract. J Orthomolecula Med. 1990;5(3):72-74.
- View Abstract: Arimi SM. Campylobacter infection in humans.East Afr Med J. Dec1989;66(12):851-5.
- Ionescu G, et al. Oral Citrus seed extract. J Orthomolecula Med. 1990;5(3):72-74.
