Grapefruit

Profile

Used as a fixative in blends (see Fixatives).

TCM Categories

• Resolve Phlegm (Hot phlegm)
• Food Stasis
• Drain Dampness

Functions

• Regulates flow of Liver qi and relieves pain
• LR invading ST/SP
• Promotes bile function
• Resolves stagnation of qi, food, and phlegm stagnation
• Drain dampness and damp Bi obstruction
• Food and Phlegm Stagnation resulting in Liver Qi Stagnation (CV- 13, CV-12, PC-6, ST-40, LR-14, LR-3, GB-34)
• Reduces cravings for sweets

Indications

• Damp-Cold in the Lower Heater (CV-3, CV-9, SP-6, SP-9, TH-4)

Topical Applications

• Add to blends to promote weight loss by its reduction of water retention and lymph congestion (e.g., cellulite)

Specific Protocols

• 6% dilution for Damp-Cold in the Lower Heater with Grapefruit (50%), Juniper (30%), and Fennel (20 %).
• 6% dilution for Damp-Heat in the Middle/Lower Heater with Grapefruit (50%), Cedarwood (30%), and Lovage (20%). Can be applied for Dai Mai/Belt Channel.

Actions

• Antiseptic
• Antidepressant
• Appetite stimulant
• Analgesic
• Mild diuretic

Contraindications & Cautions

Notes

• Strong affiliation for the GB
• Blends well with other oils
• Affiliation with the Dai Mai (GB)
• Makes you smile, brings on a cheerful attitude
• Use with Bay Laurel for swollen lymph nodes
• Relives wind cold by regulating the liver
• Good for those who overindulge in sweets and alcohol; can reduce sugar cravings (inhaler or topical)
• Good for those with high expectations or who feel sorry for themselves; helps the "injured child" (attention seeking) move through that

Additional Comments

• Grapefruit has the shortest shelf life of all the citrus oils (so add a fixative to prevent rancidity - e.g., Vitamin E, wheat-germ oil, cold-pressed sesame seed oil, etc.).
• Grapefruit can reduce the skin-irritating effects of Lemongrass (1:1 ratio).
• Grapefruit will increase the absorption rate of other essential oils.