Juniper Berries as an Herb

(Juniperis communis)

The Juniper is a small shrub, 4 to 6 feet high, widely distributed throughout the Northern Hemisphere.

The berries are used for the production of the volatile oil which is a prime ingredient in Geneva or Hollands Gin, upon which its flavor and diuretic properties depend.

Medicinal Uses for Juniper

Spirit of Juniper has properties resembling oil of turpentine; as such it is used as a stimulating diuretic in cardiac ailments.

Juniper is high in natural insulin, and has the ability to heal the pancreas where there has been no permanent damage.

Juniper has been used to clear uric acid from the body and has been useful for all urinary infections as well as for water retention problems and well as gout. The chief use of Juniper is as an adjuvant to diuretics in edema depending on heart, liver or kidney disease. An infusion of 1 ounce to 1 pint of boiling water may be taken in the course of 24 hours.

Chewing the berries treats inflamed and infected gums.

Juniper is used externally as a compress to treat acne, athlete's foot, and dandruff.

Native Americans used a decoction of the boiled leaves as a poultice for joints affected by arthritis and rheumatism.

The essential oil is used in aromatherapy to treat sleep problems and to relieve stress. Used in a massage oil, it is useful for the female system and for the skin.

Culinary

Juniper berries contribute as much to the character of food through their 'freshening' ability, as they do by way of their taste. As well as flavoring a dish, juniper cuts the gaminess of game, reduces the fatty effect of duck and pork and perks up a bread stuffing. Pork chops, roast leg of lamb, veal, rabbit, venison and wild boar are all enlivened with a hint of juniper.

Juniper berries blend well with other herbs and spices, especially thyme, sage, oregano, marjoram, bay leaves, allspice and onions and garlic. It can effectively be added to wine marinades for meats, and is used with coriander in smoking meat. It seasons pates and sauces. Goulash and Sauerkraut often feature a juniper taste, as do some home-pickled meats like salt beef, salt pork and ham.

Generally juniper can well be used in any dish requiring alcohol. Fruit dishes, such as apple tart and pickled peaches, also harmonize with this flavor.

In Sweden a beer is made with juniper berries that is regarded as a healthy drink.

Cautions

Should not be used by pregnant women or those suffering from kidney disease.

Large doses may cause irritation to the urinary tract.

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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Some plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals. Some plants used for illness in the past have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.