Bittersweet Effects Grapefruit Seeds

Grapefmit is one of the most widely known tropical fruits. In recent times, its extract, which is prepared from the seeds, is marketed and advertised for medicinal purposes as well. Grapefruit seed extracts are claimed to have antibiotic, antifungal, immunostimulant activities and are very popular among consumers who prefer 

Grapefruit juice, peel and seeds have antioxidant effects because of certain components present in them. This activity is one of the main reasons for the reduction of cardiovascular risks described in regular grapefruit (or grapefruit juice) consumers. However, such effects have not been confirmed and seem to be irrelevant for grapefruit seed extracts. 

The majority of scientific papers report the antimicrobial effects of different parts (peel, seed) of the fruit. Grapefruit peel extracts are effective especially against Gram positive bacteria. Similar activity has been reported for the limonoids of the seeds. In one experiment, a product containing grapefruit seed extract proved to be effective agaiirst several bacterial straiirs. This activity was ascribed to some qua- 

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