Herbs Guide

Grapefruit

Family Name: Rutaceae

Botanical Name(s): Citrus Paradisi

Popular Name(s): Cedrata, Citrus Aurantium, Crassa

Parts Used: Fruit, Fruit Peel and Oil

Habitat: Grapefruit is believed to be native to Jamaica

Description: The grapefruit tree can grow to a height of 26 to 30 feet. Grapefruits are round, with a diameter of between 4 and 6 inches. Their thin skin may be either completely yellow or yellow with a pinkish hue. The pulp of the fruit may be yellow, pinkish, or reddish.

Uses: The fruit contains pectin, which is considered good for settling an upset stomach, due to the fibrous content. Considered a good source of vitamin C and the fruit therefore has excellent antioxidant properties. The fruit is eaten raw or is used as a jam, marmalade or jelly. The peel is candied and eaten as a sweet. It has anti-depressant, antiseptic, depurative, diuretic, disinfectant, stimulant and tonic properties.