In November of 1994, the Southern Research Institute completed a study that compared grapefruit extract as a disinfectant to a leading commercial disinfectant.  The following pathogens were involved in the test:

    Similiar results were obtained when grapefruit extract was compared with isopropyl alcohol, which is often the disinfectant of choice in hospitals.

    The most impressive comparisons were between grapefruit extract and chlorine bleach, and colloidal silver.  Bio Research Laboratories of Redmond, Washington, USA, tested GSE, a commercial chlorine bleach, and colloidal silver against Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Streptococcus faecium, and E. coli.  Again, grapefruit extract proved superior, the test report concluding:

All microorganisms tested were inhibited with moderate levels of GSE liquid disinfectant.  High levels of chlorine bleach inhibited the test organisms, but moderate levels were not effective.  Because the GSE liquid was inhibitory at much lower levels, it may be assumed that it is ten to one hundred times more effective than chlorine against the organisms used in this study.  On average, GSE proved to be ten times more effective than the colloidal silver.

Researchers have long postulated that some forms of arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, may be related to bacterial strep infection.  New evidence suggests that several other bacteria may also be implicated, two of which are Proteus vulgaris and Klebsiella pneumonia.  Both of these are commonly found in the digestive tract.  Here's the connection:

The research suggests that antibodies are produced to neutralize antigens produced by bacteria.  These antibody-antigen complexes may be absorbed through the intestinal lining and thus enter the bloodstream.  Normally, these complexes are filtered by the liver, kidneys, and lymphatic systems, but in some individuals, a serious complication can arise.

With Klebsiella pneumonia, this reaction usually occurs in the spinal column.  A debilitating condition known as ankylosing spodolytis may develop, resulting in immobilization of segments of the spinal column, resulting in drastic loss of flexibility and consequent problems.

In the case of Proteus vulgaris complexes, inflammatory responses can occur in any joint.  Left unchecked, this can produce the swelling, pain, deformity, and other signs of rheumatoid arthritis.

It should also be noted that allergic reactions to dust, chemicals, drugs, foods, can be a factor.Consider whether you have primary or secondary allergies.   Nutritional deficiencies may contribute to arthritis symptoms, or may be directly causal in nature.  MSM- biological sulfur deficiency has been linked with symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia, and CFS. Injuries may also be a factor.