Juniper Berries

Western Bulk Herbs – Juniper Berries

Juniper berries can be used if you have problems with urinary tract infections. It can also protect against evil spirits. Just throw some on the fire or so it was believed in ancient times. Historically, they have been used to treat bladder and kidney infections.

Normally, it’s used to treat indigestion problems and if you’re suffering from gout or arthritis. In has been used to help menstrual flow. It’s also one of the ingredients in gin.

Latin Name:
Juniperus communis

Common Names:
Common Juniper

Parts Used:
The berries.

Properties:
Antiseptic, digestive aid, diuretic, and tonic

Traditional Uses:
A tea, extract or capsule.

Topical Uses / Applications:

Culinary Uses:
Can be sprinkled on ice cream, in smoothies, or on fruit. It adds a nice flavor to just about anything.

Chemical Properties:
Primarily sugars, but also pinene, limonene, tannins, and antioxidant flavonoids.

Cautions:
Do not use Juniper berry if you are pregnant. Do not use Juniper berry if you have kidney inflammation, infection or failure. Do not use in excess of four weeks due to potential kidney damage.

Folk Lore:
Juniper is a coniferous plant that has been used for spiritual ceremonies as well a healing herb. In ancient times, they believed burning it would prevent the plague and keep evil spirits away.

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Resources:
PDR for Herbal Medicines, 2000. Medical Economics Company, Montvale, New Jersey.

The New Holistic Herbal. David Hoffmann, 1990. Barnes and Noble Books, New York.

A Modern Herbal, Mrs. M. Grieve, (Dover Publications, New York, 1971)

Major Herbs of Ayurvedic.Compiled by Dahur Research Foundation and Dahur Ayurvet Limited, Ghaziabad, India., 2002. Churchill Livingstone, London, England.

Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica, Third Edition, Dan Bensky and Andrew Gamble, 1986. Eastland Press, Seattle, WA.