Grapefruit seed is an underrated treasure in the opinion of
many. It cleans, protects, preserves delicate foods, and there is research
indicating it is effective as a natural antibiotic, anti-fungal, anti-viral,
anti-protozoan and antiseptic disinfectant. It has been used for bird-related
purposes for several years by aviculturists.
In the years since its discovery, grapefruit seed
extract has been tested and validated by the FDA and USDA as well as a number of
physicians. The active ingredient of grapefruit seed extract is non-toxic and is
synthesized from the seed and pulp of grapefruit. This liquid is loaded with
polyphenolic compounds. GSE has been proven in laboratory tests to be 10 to 100
times more effective as a disinfectant than chlorine, colloidal silver, and
iodine. The United States Department of Agriculture tested GSE and found it
effective against four animal viruses including avian influenza.
Uses -
 | Add to Drinking Water - 1 drop
of GSE in 8 ounces of water prevents the growth of pathogens and removes
existing parasites. |
| All Purpose Cleaner - Add 15-30
drops of extract to any 32 oz pump sprayer filled with your favorite
cleanser or this can be added just to water. Use on all surfaces of the
house and aviary. |
| Antibacterial Soap – Add
10-15 drops of GSE added to an eight-ounce pump container of your favorite
hand-soap. |
| Carpet Cleaning – Add 10-15
drops per gallon in the reservoir is effective in killing staph, strep,
aspergillus, salmonella and many other pathogenic organisms. |
| Cleaning Chicks After Feeding –
Add 2-3 drops GSE to a large bowl of warm water to wet the cleaning cloth. |
| Cutting Board Cleaner, Perches
& Other Wood Surfaces - Apply 5-10 drops of extract to cutting board
and work into entire board with a wet sponge or dishcloth. Leave on for at
least 60 minutes. Rinse with water before using. As an alternative method,
mix a tablespoon GSE in 16 ounces of water and spray or dip perches, leaving
on for half an hour. Rinse and dry thoroughly. |
| Dish & Utensil Cleaner -
Add 10-20 drops of extract to sink dishwashing water or to final rinse. You
may do the same for dishwashers. |
| Disinfecting Laundry – Add
10-15 drops of GSE to the final rinse water |
| Preventing Algae Growth in
Incubators & Humidifiers – Add 3-4
of GSE per gallon of water in the reservoir. |
| Preventing Mold In Sprouted Seeds
– Use 1 tablespoon GSE per gallon of water for the initial soak water
and subsequent rinse water. |
| Skin Rinse (For very minor skin
irritations & cleansing hands) – Mix 1-2 drops per tablespoon. |
| Vegetable Wash (Sink Washing) -
Add 20 or more drops of extract into a sink full of cold water. Briefly soak
any vegetables or fruits. (Spray
Washing) Add 20 drops per 32oz bottle of water with sprayer pump. Shake
thoroughly and spray on any vegetables or fruits. Rinse when done. |
