February is the month we celebrate my favorite fruit: the grapefruit. Grapefruit is a terrifically tart and sweet citrus fruit that is packed with vitamin C and vitamin A. Red grapefruits also contain lycopene, an antioxidant that is believed to reduce incidences of heart disease and cancer when consumed in large quantities. Grapefruits help boost the immune system too, so this flu season it is wise to add a grapefruit to your daily routine.
Grapefruits are amazing fruits not only because they offer nutrition and health benefits, but also because they are a multi-purpose food that can be used for more than just eating. To learn more about the amazing uses of this citrus treat read on.
As a food:
- Cut the grapefruit in half and use a spoon to eat each segment.
- Peel the grapefruit and eat each segment like an orange.
- Place grapefruit slices on a salad for a tangy flavor.
- Juice them to make delicious grapefruit juice.
- Add the juice to a cocktail, such as a Greyhound Cocktail.
- Boil strips of the rind in equal parts water and sugar until the liquid is completely absorbed. When the strips have cooled, coat them with sugar and allow them to dry. Candied grapefruit rinds are wonderful treats for all ages.
Around the house:
- Bathroom cleaner – cut the grapefruit in half and sprinkle with kosher salt. Wet the bathtub and sink surfaces and scrub with the salted grapefruit half. You may want to add fresh salt as you work to increase the scrubbing power. When scrubbing is done, simply rinse and enjoy a clean and citrus scented bathroom.
- Multipurpose cleaner – combine one part fresh grapefruit juice, three parts warm water and one part vinegar in a spray bottle for a great cleaner that will wipe away grime from countertops, sinks, floors and tubs.
- Potpourri – cut the rind into strips and dry in a food dehydrater to make natural and pleasant smelling potpourri.
Grapefruits are a fantastic fruit that deserve to have a month dedicated to them. Try some of the many uses listed here and you’ll soon agree with me. Please note, however, that consuming grapefruit or its juice when taking certain medicines can have life-threatening interactions, so be sure to check that you are not on any of the medications listed here and consult your physician if you believe you may be taking a drug that has potential to interact with grapefruit.
Happy National Grapefruit Month!
