- The grapefruit was first described in the 1750s as the "forbidden fruit" of Barbados. It was introduced to Florida in the 1820s. Most grapefruit in the United States is still grown in Florida. Grapefruit juice has been used in folk medicine for the treatment of diabetes as well as to strengthen the immune system. Grapefruit is also added to cosmetics and hair care products as a fragrance.
- Grapefruit has been suggested as a treatment for several conditions, but there is currently insufficient scientific evidence to support the use of grapefruit for any medical disorder. The use of supplemental grapefruit pectin in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and the use of grapefruit seed extract in atopic eczema warrants further scientific investigation before a strong recommendation can be made. There is conflicting research regarding the use of grapefruit for kidney stones.
- Grapefruit juice alters the way some drugs are broken down in the liver. Grapefruit may increase the effects of calcium channel blockers, benzodiazepines, immunosuppressants, and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors.
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ingredients
Grapefruit (Citrus paradisi)
Contents
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to . Selected references are listed below.
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View Abstract - Chaobal HN, Kharasch ED. Single-point sampling for assessment of constitutive, induced, and inhibited cytochrome P450 3A activity with alfentanil or midazolam. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2005;78(5):529-539.
View Abstract - Dresser GK, Kim RB, Bailey DG. Effect of grapefruit juice volume on the reduction of fexofenadine bioavailability: possible role of organic anion transporting polypeptides. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2005;77(3):170-177.
View Abstract - Fujioka K, Greenway F, Sheard J, et al. The effects of grapefruit on weight and insulin resistance: relationship to the metabolic syndrome. J Med Food 2006 Spring;9(1):49-54.
View Abstract - Goosen TC, Cillie D, Bailey DG, et al. Bergamottin contribution to the grapefruit juice-felodipine interaction and disposition in humans. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2004;76(6):607-617.
View Abstract - Gorinstein S, Caspi A, Libman I, et al. Red grapefruit positively influences serum triglyceride level in patients suffering from coronary atherosclerosis: studies in vitro and in humans. J Agric Food Chem 2006 Mar 8;54(5):1887-92.
View Abstract - Lilja JJ, Laitinen K, Neuvonen PJ. Effects of grapefruit juice on the absorption of levothyroxine. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2005;60(3):337-341.
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View Abstract - Lilja JJ, Raaska K, Neuvonen PJ. Effects of grapefruit juice on the pharmacokinetics of acebutolol. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2005;60(6):659-663.
View Abstract - Odou P, Ferrari N, Barthelemy C, et al. Grapefruit juice-nifedipine interaction: possible involvement of several mechanisms. J Clin Pharm Ther 2005;30(2):153-158.
View Abstract - Paine MF, Criss AB, Watkins PB. Two major grapefruit juice components differ in time to onset of intestinal CYP3A4 inhibition. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2005;312(3):1151-1160.
View Abstract - Shi J, Montay G, Leroy B, et al. Effects of itraconazole or grapefruit juice on the pharmacokinetics of telithromycin. Pharmacotherapy 2005;25(1):42-51.
View Abstract - Staudte H, Sigusch BW, Glockmann E. Grapefruit consumption improves vitamin C status in periodontitis patients. Br Dent J 8-27-2005;199(4):213-7, discussion.
View Abstract - Unger M, Frank A. Simultaneous determination of the inhibitory potency of herbal extracts on the activity of six major cytochrome P450 enzymes using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry and automated online extraction. Rapid Commun.Mass Spectrom 2004;18(19):2273-2281.
View Abstract - Yee GC, Stanley DL, Pessa LJ, et al. Effect of grapefruit juice on blood cyclosporin concentration. Lancet 4-15-1995;345(8955):955-956.
View Abstract
Disclaimer: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.
