Citrus Grandis Seed Extract: properties, uses, pros, cons, safety
Citrus Grandis Seed Extract is a botanical ingredient obtained from the homonymous tree. The fruit is the grapefruit. Like all trees of the Rutaceae family, the fruit is used industrially by food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies. It contains numerous components of interest to human health such as flavonoids, terpenes, linalool, vitamin C, folic acid, with antioxidant properties.
The name describes the structure of the ingredient
- "Citrus" is the botanical genus to which the plant belongs. Plants of this genus are commonly known as citrus fruits.
- "Grandis" is the specific species within the Citrus genus. This plant is commonly known as "grapefruit".
- "Seed" refers to the seed of the fruit.
- "Extract" indicates that the product is an extract derived from the peel and/or seed of the grapefruit.
Description of raw materials used in production
- Seeds of Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit). Parts of the grapefruit plant, often by-products from industrial processing of the fruit.
Detailed summary of the production process.
- Material Preparation. The seeds are cleaned and, if necessary, dried.
- Maceration. The seeds are immersed in a suitable solvent (such as water, ethyl alcohol, or other organic solvents) to extract desired compounds.
- Extraction. The material is then subjected to extraction using methods like pressing, distillation, or ultrasonication, to separate the extract from the plant material.
- Filtration and Purification. The crude extract is filtered to remove solid particles and impurities.
- Concentration. If needed, the extract might be concentrated under vacuum or through other methods to reduce solvent content.
What it is used for and where
Medical Applications
Antimicrobial. Grapefruit peel/seed extract is known for its antimicrobial properties and may be used in preparations to treat superficial infections or as a natural preservative in pharmaceutical products.
Antioxidant. It may be used in supplements and products to combat free radicals and support overall health.
Dermatology. The extract might be used in dermatological treatments for issues related to bacterial or fungal infections.
Cosmetics
It is a restricted ingredient as II/358 a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009.
What it is used for and where
Cosmetics
- Cosmetic astringent. This ingredient exerts a direct effect on the skin by tightening dilated pores by contracting stratum corneum cells and removing superfluous oil.
- Fragrance. It plays a very important role in the formulation of cosmetic products as it allows perfume to be enhanced, masked or added to the final product, improving its commercial viability. The consumer always expects to find a pleasant scent in a cosmetic product.
- Preservative. Any product containing organic, inorganic compounds, water, needs to be preserved from microbial contamination. Preservatives act against the development of harmful microorganisms and against oxidation of the product.
Commercial applications
Cosmetics and Skin Care. Due to its antimicrobial properties, the extract is often used in skincare products such as toners, creams, and lotions.
Hair Products. It can be added to shampoos and conditioners for its purifying and refreshing properties.
Cleaning Products. Its antimicrobial abilities make it useful in cleansers and soaps.
Grapefruit has a high content of polyphenols among which the class of flavonoids counts for 80% (1). Grapefruit seed extract has demonstrated antibacterial efficacy in disinfecting denture surfaces and removing biofilms without causing deterioration on the surface of the resins (2).
Contraindications: If grapefruit is taken in combination with certain drugs (statins, calcium blockers and others) it may cause allergies. Consult your doctor.
