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.
