Dangers of Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit seed extract has been promoted as a beneficial health product which has antioxidants, is an antimicrobial and has cancer fighting components. Critics of this supplement state it has negatives and dangers which outweigh the benefits.
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Allergies
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Benzethonium chloride is a synthetic antimicrobial which is often added to grapefruit seed extract supplements and products, including those in the cosmetic industry. This compound can cause allergies and toxicities when used or ingested.
Drug Interactions
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Warfarin is an anticoagulant drug which been affected by users of grapefruit seed extract. Studies show benzethonium chloride is the culprit, causing hematomas in patients.
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Harm to Skin and Eyes
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Benzethonium chloride also is harmful to the eyes and skin when grapefruit seed extract is exposed to a person in larger concentrations. As an antimicrobial, this compound can irritate eyes and skin.
Misconceptions
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Grapefruit seed extract has also been touted as organic and natural. These are misnomers with it being a chemical compound. It has been created in the lab from grapefruit pulp and juice production with negative chemical changes from production.
Effects on the Endocrine System
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Studies have shown grapefruit seed extract disrupts the endocrine system. It has levels of estrogen in the flavones, a chemical compound comprised in supplements. The increase in estrogen has effects on the endocrine systems
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