The great Greek physician, pharmacologist, botanist, and author Pedanius Dioscorides, who lived in the 1st century A.D., knew the medicinal properties of the juniper plant fruit. However, juniper fruits have more applications than simply adding their aroma to some alcoholic beverages.
- Expertly extracted for support of the urinary system
- Prepared from the certified organic and/or sustainably wildcrafted mature berry of Juniperus communis shrubs
- Rapidly absorbed liquid extract
Juniper Plant Scientific Facts
- Other names: Common juniper.
- French: Genevrier.
- Spanish: Enebro, junipero.
- Environment: It is common in rocky soils and mountainous forests all over Europe and is also a naturalized species in America.
- Description: This is an evergreen shrub of the Cupressaceae family, growing from 1 to 3 m high. Its leaves are short and sharp-pointed. The fruit is small, blue, or black balls with a resinous, sweet flavor.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The fruit.
Healing Properties and Uses
The entire plant, especially its leaves, contains essential oil rich in terpenic substances. The berries contain sugar, resin, organic acids, and juniperin (a bitter glycoside). These BERRIES have the following properties:
- Diuretic. The essential oil of juniper increases glomerular strain on the kidneys, thus increasing urine production. However, when continuously taken, high doses of this plant induce the straining capabilities of the kidneys and can even produce nephritis. Juniper is recommended for edema caused by coronary insufficiency and as a purifying substance to eliminate excess uric acid.
- Expectorant and bronchial antiseptic. Since a significant part of its essence is eliminated via the lung airways, its berries have been used as a complementary treatment for bronchial and lung diseases, even tuberculosis.
- Appetizer, stomach invigorator, and carminative.
- Emmenagogue. They produce an increased blood flow towards the genitalia; thus, these berries are recommended to treat painful or scant menstruation.
- Revulsive. When externally applied with a massage, juniper ESSENCE in an alcoholic solution eases rheumatic and arthrosis aches.
With their diuretic-stimulating properties, Juniper berries are an excellent remedy for lower back pain, gravel, bladder catarrh, and urine retention. They can also treat uric acid buildup and bladder discharges. Take one to three drops of juniper oil with honey twice daily. The primary intake method is eating berries or making tea from them. The berries can eliminate excess water from the body.
The tea can be used as a good douche for vaginal infections. It can aid in treating prostate disorders, asthma, and fluid retention. The herb can also treat nephritis, lumbago, hay fever, bed-wetting, arthritis, allergies, bladder diseases, cystitis, and diabetes.
Juniper berries are also helpful in treating gouty and rheumatic pains, gonorrhea, leukorrhea, gastrointestinal infections, and cramps. It is also a fantastic digestive tonic. It can also manage blood sugar levels and lessen the production of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid). As a spice, the berries enhance flavor, counteract flatulence, and stimulate the appetite.
Externally, the oil derived from berries can easily penetrate the skin and is excellent for bone and joint ailments. The boiled berries can be used as a disinfectant and sprayed within rooms where sick people have been. In the past, nurses and caregivers of seriously ill patients were told to chew a few berries to shield them from the pathogenic elements that can be inhaled.
Juniper berries are among the most widely used herbal diuretics. In Germany, it is approved as a tea to remedy stomach conditions and stimulate the appetite. Science confirms its anti-inflammatory and spasm-reducing properties, which some believe lend to its diuretic activity. The fruits eaten raw or made into tea served as folk remedies for bronchitis, colds, colic, antiseptics for intestinal infections, carminatives for flatulence, and urinary antiseptics for cystitis. In external applications, it was used for snakebites, arthritis, rheumatism, aches, cancer, and sores.
How to use Juniper
- Ripe berries. They can be taken whole as pills, six after every meal, three times a day.
- Infusion.
- Essence.
- Massage with juniper essence dissolved in alcohol, 20 to 30 drops per 100 ml.
Infusion: Steep for five to fifteen minutes and take three ounces, one to three times daily. Decoction: Simmer for five to fifteen minutes and take one to two cups daily. Tincture: Take five to twenty drops three times daily. Fluid Extract: Take ½ to one teaspoon three times daily. Oil: Take one to three drops two times daily. Powder: Take up to 10 #0 capsules (up to 60 grains) daily.
WARNING! Juniper berries are potentially toxic. Frequent or large doses can result in kidney failure, digestive irritation, and convulsions. Germans limit its medicinal use to four weeks. Please do not use it during pregnancy. The oil has the potential to cause blistering.
Excessive doses of juniper berries can irritate the urinary passages and kidneys and interfere with iron and other mineral absorption. Pregnant women and people with kidney disease should not use them. Please do not use them for extended periods, especially for inflammatory or urinary tract diseases. If placed on the skin in large amounts, the pure oil can result in blisters and inflammation.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the specific antioxidant compounds in the juniper plant berries, and how do they work?
Juniper berries are rich in a variety of potent antioxidants, including:
Flavonoids: Plant compounds that protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Terpenes: Compounds responsible for Juniper’s aroma; these also have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Vitamin C: A water-soluble vitamin that boosts immune function and improves skin health.
Can the Juniper plant help manage diabetes?
While more human research is needed, animal studies suggest promising results. In lab studies, Juniper berry extracts have shown positive effects on blood sugar regulation. This could be attributed to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics that help counteract the root causes of diabetes-associated difficulties.
It is necessary to consult your doctor before using a juniper if you manage diabetes.
How does the Juniper plant’s diuretic effect benefit the body?
Juniper berries are natural diuretics, increasing urine production and helping the body flush excess fluids. Here’s how this works:
Reduced Bloating and Swelling: Great for temporary relief from water retention.
Potential Blood Pressure Aid: Diuresis can help manage blood pressure in conjunction with healthy habits.
Kidney Support: This may help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) as increased urination helps flush out bacteria.
Are there studies supporting the Juniper plant as an anti-inflammatory?
Both animal and laboratory studies demonstrate Juniper’s anti-inflammatory capabilities. Research suggests juniper extract could help manage inflammatory conditions like arthritis, thanks to compounds that decrease inflammation markers.
How effective is the Juniper plant for topical skin benefits?
Juniper essential oil, when appropriately diluted, may offer some topical benefits:
Antiseptic Properties: Due to its antiseptic nature, it may help with minor wounds and skin infections.
Acne Management: Juniper’s compounds can combat the bacteria contributing to acne.
Potential Aid for Eczema and Psoriasis: Limited studies suggest some benefits in reducing symptoms.
Important: Always do a patch test before applying juniper oil to a larger skin area to assess sensitivity.
Can the Juniper plant benefit the cardiovascular system?
While not a primary treatment, there’s potential for indirect benefits:
Cholesterol-Lowering Potential: Some research indicates juniper extracts may help decrease LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and increase HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels.
Antioxidant support: Juniper’s antioxidants can protect blood vessels and reduce inflammation, potentially contributing to better heart health.
Does the Juniper plant interact negatively with any medications?
Yes. It’s crucial to talk to your doctor before using Juniper, especially if you take:
Diuretics: Juniper could amplify the effect, leading to excessive fluid loss.
Diabetes medications: Juniper may interact with blood sugar-lowering drugs.
Blood pressure medications: The plant may interact with these as well.
Are there any digestive benefits to the Juniper plant?
Juniper has a tradition of use in aiding digestion:
Antispasmodic effect: This can help reduce stomach cramps and bloating.
May relieve heartburn: Limited studies suggest some benefits
Appetite stimulant: Could be helpful for those with decreased appetite
How can I safely incorporate the Juniper plant into my diet?
Here are some ways:
Juniper tea: Steep dried berries in hot water.
Spice: Use crushed berries to flavor meats and stews.
Extract: Look for standardized juniper supplements
Essential oil: Use topically (diluted) or in aromatherapy.
Are there risks from using the Juniper plant?
For most healthy adults, moderate consumption is safe. However, be aware of these considerations:
Pregnancy: Avoid Juniper due to potential effects on the uterus.
Kidney Issues: Use cautiously under medical supervision if you have kidney problems.
Allergies: Rare but possible, especially if allergic to similar plants.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 577. Print. [juniper plant]
- Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 165.
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/juniper-berries
- https://draxe.com/nutrition/juniper-berries
- https://www.indigo-herbs.co.uk/natural-health-guide/benefits/juniper-berry
- https://my.klarity.health/health-benefits-of-juniper-berries/
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API