Benefits of Citrus Seed Extract
Citrus seed extract should be part of our natural pharmacy. Its qualities as a natural antibiotic, its many benefits and its varied uses make it a broad-spectrum remedy, both internally and externally. Here's a simple proof of the power of this extract: when you cut an orange, you'll notice that the citrus fruit doesn't oxidize, whereas an apple would. This browning will be more or less rapid, depending on the fruit's antioxidant content.
In the body, oxidation contributes to aging by releasing free radicals, making us more vulnerable to pathogenic intruders. We'll take a closer look at how a doctor discovered the power of this extract, the antioxidants it contains, and its various uses in prevention and treatment.
Citrus seed extract: a brief history
In 1980 in the United States, physician and physicist Jacob Harich observed that grapefruit seeds did not rot on his compost. By studying grapefruit seeds in the laboratory, in partnership with the University of Florida's Institute of Agricultural and Food Sciences, he concluded that the extract was a powerful natural antibiotic, less harmful than conventional antibiotics, and with a very low level of toxicity.
Active ingredients of citrus seed extract
We often talk aboutEPP or grapefruit seed extractbut in fact, citrus seeds contain more or less the same antioxidant and disinfectant molecules. The extract therefore contains several phenolic compounds (quercetin, hesperidin, campherol glycoside, neohesperidin, naringin, apigenin, rutinoside, poncirin, diosmin, etc.), flavonoids, vitamins C and E.
Benefits and uses of citrus seed extract
Citrus extracts, particularly from grapefruitis an immune support on many levels: antibiotic, antifungal, anticandida, antiparasitic, anticarcinogenic, antiviral. It is effective against salmonella, E. coli and viruses. Here are the main uses of EPP:
Citrus seed extract to prevent chronic diseases of the circulatory system
Citrus seed extract helps relieve symptoms associated with varicose veins (edema, sensation of heaviness) and chronic venous insufficiency. Flora CircuVein is an extract of citrus flavonoids (diosmin and hesperidin) specifically designed to improve venous circulation.
Citrus seed extract andn treatment of viral infections
EPP is an excellent remedy for respiratory tract infections such as sinusitis, influenza and otitis. It can also be applied externally to oral herpes and plantar warts.
Citrus seed extract in treatment of bacterial infections
Helps combat intestinal problems such as infectious diarrhea (food poisoning, gastroenteritis, tourista, etc.).
As a gargle, it treats sore throats, gingivitis, mouth ulcers and bad breath. A few drops on the toothbrush, it helps remove tartar.
Citrus seed extract en antifungal and anti-candida treatment
The first clinical applications of citrus seed extracts successfully targeted the treatment of candida albicans. A member of the fungus family, this pathogen can invade our digestive tract and create a whole range of symptoms (skin disorders, chronic fatigue, digestive discomfort, yeast infections, etc.). Externally, it is excellent against nail fungus and athlete's foot. Apply pure to the area to be treated several times a day.
Citrus seed extract en pest control
Citrus seed extract has the ability to eliminate parasites of all types in the body, such as those responsible for malaria and dysentery.
To prevent parasites from being ingested, you can wash fruits and vegetables by adding 7 to 8 drops to the contents of a sink filled with cold water, then leaving them to soak in this water for 15 minutes.
You can also spray a mixture of 7 to 8 drops of EPP in 250ml of water on meats, fish and chicken, then leave for 15 minutes before cooking.
Citrus seed extract en lice treatment
EPP is said to be effective in eliminating adult lice when applied to the scalp for 10 to 20 minutes. Then, 10 days later, repeat the same treatment to eliminate nits.[i]
Citrus seed extract en treatment of skin disorders
A study on a group of eczema sufferers showed that taking EPP improved several parameters: constipation, flatulence, abdominal discomfort, quality of intestinal microbiota and eczema. [ii]
EPP can be applied undiluted to acne and fever blisters.
Citrus seed extract contributes to weight loss
Studies have shown that, following the intake of various citrus extractsweight loss, and a reduction in body fat percentage and body mass index (BMI) in healthy, overweight adults.[iii] [iv]
Citrus seed extract cs a disinfectant
As an all-purpose cleaner, use 60 drops in one liter of water, and spray on surfaces such as cutting boards, countertops, etc.
To disinfect toothbrushes, soak them in a mixture of 15 drops of EPP and 100 ml of water for 15 minutes.
Pet care with citrus seed extract
It is used on livestock farms to treat animals suffering from fungal infections, and to clean cows' udders and cages. This extract is also highly effective in keeping fleas away from pets.
Plant care with citrus seed extract
In organic farming and gardening, it can be used against mold, mildew, slugs, aphids, spiders and fungi. It can also be used on houseplants.
Contraindications from citrus seed extract
Taking grapefruit seed extract internally may be contraindicated with certain medications, as it may interfere with their assimilation, inhibiting or minimizing their action.
In short, it's by using citrus seed extract wherever there are potential pathogens that you'll discover its thousand and one possible applications. Need some advice? We're here to help you make the right choice! 7 days a week, our health advisors and qualified naturopaths are at your service. In each of our stores, you can meet them and discuss your questions. Can't make it to the store? Our health advisors and naturopaths are available by telephone every day of the week, during store opening hours.
About the author
Naturopaths of La Boite à Grains
Team of licensed and certified naturopaths (ND) in Gatineau, Outaouais.
Original article written by Laurence Couture-Dubé, Naturopath
Sources
[i] Abdel-Ghaffar F, Semmler M, Al-Rasheid K, Klimpel S, Mehlhorn H. Efficacy of a grapefruit extract on head lice: a clinical trial. Parasitol Res. 2010 Jan;106(2):445-9.
[ii] Ionescu G, Kiehl F, Wichmann-Kunz F, et al. Oral citrus seed extract in atopic eczema: in vitro and in vivo studies on intestinal microflora. J Orthomolec Med 1990;5:155-7.
[iii] Dallas C, Gerbi A, Elbez Y, Caillard P, Zamaria N, Cloarec M. Clinical study to assess the efficacy and safety of a citrus polyphenolic extract of red orange, grapefruit, and orange (Sinetrol-XPur) on weight management and metabolic parameters in healthy overweight individuals. Phytother Res. 2014 Feb;28(2):212-8
[iv] Dallas C, Gerbi A, Tenca G, Juchaux F, Bernard FX. Lipolytic effect of a polyphenolic citrus dry extract of red orange, grapefruit, orange (SINETROL) in human body fat adipocytes. Mechanism of action by inhibition of cAMP-phosphodiesterase (PDE). Phytomedicine. 2008 Oct;15(10):783-92.