Origin: The grapefruit was first discovered and documented in 1750 in Barbados. It was mentioned in specimens written by Rev. Griffith Hughes. The fruit was originally called the "forbidden fruit" of Barbados. Currently, the grapefruit is claimed by some as one of the "Seven Wonders of Barbados" (Bourne 1996).
Until 1800, it was also called shaddock. Later it was called grapefruit because of its appearance on the tree. It appeared as clusters of grapes on the trees. It later spread to Florida and different parts of the USA. History reveals that the genetic origin of grapefruit is a hybrid and sweet orange is also one of the ancestors of grapefruit.
Scientifically: Grapefruit is a large and evergreen tree. This citrus fruit is scientifically called Citrus paradisi. It is round edible, sweet-tangy fruit. It grows in small bunches and has yellow outer and pink flesh.
It belongs to the Citrus genus of flowering plants of the family Rutaceae. The other members of this genus are oranges, lemons, limes, pomelos, and mandarins, etc.
The trees are tall, with spine-like shoots and the leaves evergreen and are arranged alternatively. alternately arranged evergreen leaves with an entire margin. The flowers are small, with white petals and have a strong scent.
Usage: the grapefruit is a highly nutritious fruit. It is rich in phytochemicals, vitamin C, pectin fiber, and the antioxidant lycopene. The fruit stimulates the senses of sight, taste, and touch, the flowers add an aesthetic value. It is low in calories thus helps in weight loss. It also helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels. It also improves heart health.
As it is full of antioxidants, it helps in damage from free radicals and helps in cell production. Thus, helps in improving skin health. It also boosts immunity and the body’s metabolic rate. It is proven to have an anti-aging effect on the skin. One can easily snack on grapefruit slices, add to desserts, or can be added to smoothies. Grapefruit is also a very hydrating fruit and keeps you full for a longer time.
Below are some DIYs with grapefruit:
- Take half a grapefruit and 2 tablespoons of yogurt. Extract the juice from grapefruit and mix it with yogurt. Apply on the skin for 10 minutes and then rinse. This helps in fighting fine lines.
- Take half a grapefruit, 2 tablespoons of sugar and 2 teaspoons of grapeseed oil. Extract the juice and add all other ingredients together. Gently mix the ingredients in a folding motion. Use this scrub on any part of the body and massage. This help in removing dead skin and give soft supple skin.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of grapefruit juice with a teaspoon of honey and a tablespoon of cornmeal. Mix them together and apply on the face. This remedy helps in controlling sebum production on the face.
- Take 1 egg white, 1 tablespoon of grapefruit juice and a teaspoon of sour cream. Mix all the ingredients together and apply on the face for 15 minutes. This helps in tightening and brightening of the skin.
- Take 2 tablespoons of grapefruit juice, mix a tablespoon of oatmeal to it. Add a teaspoon of honey. Apply this mixture on the face for 10 minutes. This helps in smoothening the skin.
- Take 2 tablespoons of grapefruit pulp and add 2 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel to it. Mix and apply on the scalp and hair length. Keep it on for 30 minutes. This helps in promoting hair growth and makes hair shine.