Originating from Barbados, the grapefruit, is a subtropical citrus tree known for its sour to semi-sweet, somewhat bitter fruit. It's believed to be a hybrid originating from sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) and pomelo (Citrus maxima)​. Typically growing to a height of 20-45 feet, the grapefruit tree is characterized by its dense foliage and is well-adapted to hot, humid environments with plenty of sunlight, making places like Florida and southern Texas ideal for cultivation.  Grapefruit is not merely appreciated for its tantalizing taste but also for its bounty of health benefits. It's revered for promoting immune function, heart health, and healthy blood circulation, largely owing to its rich assortment of vitamins and antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin A, and lycopene. The fruit's seed extract is noted for its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, making it a useful remedy for conditions like candidiasis, earaches, throat infections, and diarrhea. Furthermore, studies have explored grapefruit's potential in offering hypolipidemic effects, which could be beneficial in managing cholesterol levels in the body. The United States, particularly Florida and California, is a major producer, with numerous cultivars like 'Ruby Red', 'Pink', and 'White' being popular for their varying flavors and colors. Besides being consumed fresh, grapefruit is also processed into juice, essential oils, and even grapefruit seed extract, which finds application in alternative medicine. Additionally, grapefruit has an unusual interaction with certain medications, a characteristic attributed to compounds called furanocoumarins which can affect the metabolism of these drugs, making the understanding of its interaction with medications crucial for those integrating grapefruit in their diet​. In Colombia, it is called toronja and cultivated below 8,500 feet. Even in the major supermarkets of Colombia you will see fruit sold that would not pass visual quality inspection in the U.S. as in the photo above. The grapefruits from the U.S. are of better taste.