So what is science actually saying about the benefits of grapefruit essential oil? Unfortunately, it’s not entirely clear what it can do for you.
Here’s what we know about the * potential * benefits of grapefruit essential oil.
1. Boosts your mood
Some people swear that smelling citrus essential oils help them feel uplifted and energized.
An older 2008 study found that people who inhaled lemon essential oil felt positive moods. Because grapefruit contains similar compounds as its citrus siblings, it can potentially produce similar effects.
At the moment, this benefit is mostly anecdotal as we lack up-to-date data and there isn’t a lot of information specific to grapefruit essential oil either.
2. Relieves stress
Do you want to chill Grapefruit essential oil can help you experience less stress.
A recent study showed that both grapefruit and lavender essential oils helped reduce stress levels in healthy participants who inhaled them regularly over 6 weeks.
Older research complements this, suggesting that citrus-based essential oils may help lower your levels of cortisol (a stress hormone).
3. Promotes weight loss
Some studies suggest that grapefruit oil can help with weight loss as well.
A 2014 animal study found that inhaling grapefruit oil can help stimulate fat loss, while a 2010 test-tube study linked the use of grapefruit oil, which may stop adipose tissue from forming.
In humans, however, research is limited and the results are somewhat biased. While a 6-week study in postmenopausal women suggested that grapefruit oil aromatherapy may help weight loss, a mixture of several oils was used.
4. Curbs appetite
If you’re looking for a way to avoid snacks, could you try smelling grapefruit oil?
While human research is still needed, animal studies have shown some results. In a 2014 study, rodents exposed to the scent of grapefruit essential oil ate less.
An older animal study had similar results. After regular exposure to the smell of grapefruit essential oil, rats showed signs of decreased appetite, decreased food intake and decreased body weight.
But obviously humans are not rats, so there is no way to know for sure if this will have the same effect on humans.
5. Regulate blood pressure
High blood pressure can be serious, and some research suggests that inhaling citrus oils can help lower and keep blood pressure low.
With these mixed results, we definitely need more information on whether or not grapefruit oil can help maintain healthy blood pressure. You should never replace grapefruit oil with your blood pressure medication.
6. Improves skin health
Grapefruit essential oil could be the secret to a healthy glow. Although more research is needed, studies show that the antibacterial properties of grapefruit oil when applied topically can help treat and prevent certain skin conditions, including acne.
With its ability to keep bacteria at bay, it’s no wonder beauty brands have used grapefruit and other citrus oils in their products.
7. Reduces inflammation
Citrus essential oils, like grapefruit, are often used as a natural anti-inflammatory agent thanks to a compound called limonene. While animal studies have shown the benefits of citrus oils in reducing inflammation, more research is needed to support their effectiveness in humans.
8. Has an antibacterial or antimicrobial effect
Grapefruit oil can also have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
In a 2011 laboratory study, researchers found that grapefruit essential oil had antimicrobial effects against numerous bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus (staphylococci), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Salmonella typhimurium (Salmonella).
New studies have found similar results. According to a 2020 study, grapefruit essential oil had the best antimicrobial effects on Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis), followed by E. coli, staphylococci, and salmonella.
While we need more research, grapefruit oil appears to be so effective against bacteria that researchers are focusing on other ways to maximize its capabilities.
9. Acts as an antifungal agent
Grapefruit essential oil is a powerful antifungal agent.
A 2017 review of essential oils and mushrooms found that grapefruit essential oil in particular may help with healing and preventing fungal infections, including yeast infections that cause Candida albicans.
A 2016 study also found that grapefruit oil is one of several essential oils that can prevent Candida albicans from growing by up to 35 percent.
