Connect
To Top

A 360° Look at Grapefruit Seed Extract!

Healthy Trends

Grapefruit seed extract, popularly known as GSE, is an essence made from Grapefruit pulp and seeds. It’s rich in several nutrients and antioxidants, which is why it’s often used as a natural remedy for health issues, including allergies and skin-related problems (it’s a common ingredient of some of the best-selling personal-care products).

gse-1

iStock | Grapefruit seeds extract is rich in several nutrients that can help in dealing with several health issues

GSE is sold both as a liquid as well as in the form of supplement capsules. But like every coin, there’s a negative side that threatens to overshadow the positive. GSE, too, though widely loved for its benefits, is regarded as harmful by some people due to many reasons.

Let’s try to look at the benefits, drawbacks, and myths associated with GSE to get a wholesome idea.

4 Benefits of grapefruit seed extract

  • Antimicrobials

The extract can kill more than 60 types of yeasts. Studies have shown that similar to antibacterial medicines (like nystatin), GSE also works effectively against fungal infections.

  • Antioxidants

Oxidative damage, which is caused by free radicals, is said to be connected to illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. The antioxidants present in GSE fight against oxidative damage and protect the body.

  • Protects stomach ailments

Studies conducted on animals have shown that several issues related to the stomach can be shielded with the help of GSE. The extract protects from ulcers by fighting free radicals and producing more blood to the affected area. Bacterium H.pylori which causes stomach inflammation, is also said to be killed by GSE. However, research hasn’t proved yet whether GSE can protect against human stomach issues.

Read – Natural & Home Remedies for Ulcers

gse-2

Shutterstock | Studies conducted on animals have shown that several issues related to the stomach can be shielded with the help of GSE

  • Treats urinary infections

A short study conducted on participants who were advised to consume 6 Grapefruit seeds every 8 hours for 2 weeks has shown significant urinary tract healing. According to researchers, the reason behind this is that the antioxidants in the seeds can fight dangerous bacteria that can often grow inside the urinary tract.

Myths about GSE

  • Cures ALL kinds of infections

Owing to the numerous benefits it offers, people often believe that the extract can cure every bacterial and yeast-related infection. However, that’s completely false, for there are no studies to confirm it.

Read – How to prevent infections

  • Organic

Commercially sold GSE is packed with preservatives, so technically, it isn’t a natural supplement. Most companies mix GSE, glycerin, ammonium chloride, hydrochloric acid, natural enzymes, and Vitamin C for a better feel and appearance. Kindly check product composition before assuming that it’s completely natural.

Disadvantages of the extract

  • Possible toxins

Certain studies have shown that commercial GSE supplements include synthetic antimicrobial products like triclosan which are toxic to the human body. Additionally, the presence of benzethonium chloride may affect the liver’s ability while processing and excreting certain medications. A particular study even showed that GSE supplements impacted the warfarin (blood-thinning) drug and led to extreme bleeding.

gse-3

Pexels | Certain studies have shown that commercial GSE supplements include substances that are toxic to the body

Wrapping it up

Since human-based research lacks the actual effects and dangers of GSE, instinctively opting for the extract based on random information isn’t recommended. It’s always best to consult a professional before taking GSE supplements.

More inHealthy Trends

Related Items

You must be logged in to post a comment Login