AKA: Juniperus communis

The juniper is a genus of evergreen tree that can be found throughout the cool climates of the northern hemisphere, especially in the plains regions of Europe. It belongs to the cypress family and it is comprised of 60 or so species of slow growing evergreens that range from ground cover to trees that are 30 feet tall.  Juniper berries are the parts of the plant that are used in both medicine and cooking. Although they are called berries, they are really blue, black scales of the trees soft and fleshy cone.

Native Americans traditionally used juniper berries to help treat infections of the urinary tract, and the plant is high in natural insulin making a good natural treatment for diabetes. It is also a natural diuretic, having the ability to help heal inflamed kidneys. Juniper is also a good detoxifier and has the ability to clear uric acid from the body.  The berries can also be used externally to help treat acne, athlete’s foot, dandruff and psoriasis.

The juniper berry is also extensively used in cooking and makes a good substitute for bay leaf. They are added to pork and venison dishes and used as a stuffing for goose or duck. The berries are also used to flavor pickling brine, sauerkraut, and pork. Juniper is also used as incense. The berries contain trace amounts of tin which is the planetary metal for Jupiter, and the spicy warmth of the berries can help purify the aura, clarify the mind and protect from negativity.

Benefits and Uses

• Juniper berries contain the essential oil: terpinene-4-ol which can help increase the filtration rate of the kidney.
• Juniper tea is a good diuretic and helps with indigestion and bronchial complaints.
• Internally, juniper berries can be used to treat cystitis, inflamed kidneys, and water retention.
• It is also good for rheumatism, gout, arthritis, gas, dyspepsia, and colic.
• The tar of the juniper tree has been used in conjunction with other plant tars to treat psoriasis of the scalp.
• It has also been used to fight cellulite, promote menses, relieve menstrual cramping and regulate periods.

Side Effects

Large doses of over 10 grams of juniper per day over a period of 4 weeks have caused kidney damage and seizures. When used as a topical, juniper oil has resulted in irritation at the applied sites. Juniper Tar (cade oil) has also been linked to skin damage and may possibly lead to skin cancer.

Juniper may also cause allergic reactions on some people. If you experience breathing problems, tightness of the throat or chest, chest pain, hives, rashes, itchy or swollen skin, stop using juniper and consult your doctor.  Juniper might also casue kidney damage and redness of the eyes.

Dosage

How much juniper you take depends upon why you are taking it, and the strength of the medication. It is always wise to consult your primary care giver before start any type of medicinal regime holistic or otherwise.

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