Small seeds, great potential

Grapefruit seeds are small "secret weapons" for well-being, as they contain respectable amounts of bioflavonoids, among other things. These secondary plant substances are polyphenols, which protect plants from predators and UV radiation and act as attractants for pollinators. They also fulfill a whole range of functions in the human body, which are mainly based on their antioxidant effect. Just like some vitamins and minerals, bioflavonoids are therefore important partners in numerous biochemical processes. Grapefruit seeds and peel are among the best sources of these multi-talented substances, which are only found in plants.

The discovery of (grapefruit) seed power

But let's start at the beginning - the moment when the American immunologist and amateur gardener Dr. Jacob Harich discovered the amazing powers of the small seeds in the 1960s. They simply did not want to rot on his compost heap ... and created a sparkling clean yard around them, free of putrefactive bacteria and mold. Curious, he made an extract from the seeds and began to research its effect on various fungi, bacteria, viruses and parasites. Fascinated, he realized that certain flavonoids from the grapefruit seed extract (mainly naringin, hesperidin, quercetin and rutin) specifically attacked the cell walls of the germs.

Organic grapefruit seed extract

GSE was one of the first companies to import grapefruit seed extract from the USA to Germany in 1994 and was finally the first manufacturer worldwide to offer it in certified organic quality in 2003. In order to meet the strict requirements for this certification, not only the grapefruit seeds and peel used must be organically grown, but also the plant-based raw material for the organic glycerine. Our extract is also guaranteed to be free from undesirable accompanying substances such as benzethonium chloride, triclosan and organochlorine and organophosphorus pesticides. Furthermore, CitroPlus® contains no alcohol and is therefore also suitable for children, pregnant women, alcohol-sensitive people and animals.Today, GSE offers its "pioneer product" CitroPlus® in three different bioflavonoid concentrations (600, 800 and CitroPlus® 1200 forte) and as tablets for swallowing.