Juniper Berry's Medicinal Uses

Juniper berries are not true berries, but the female seed cones that come from any of the several-dozen species of juniper tree that grow throughout the world. In addition to its culinary use as a spice and its uses in aromatherapy, juniper is posessed of several unique and potent medicinal properties.

As an herbalist, I have often recommended natural treatments using juniper berries, although it still remains relatively uncommon as a supplement or natural medicine. Because it has so many potent medicinal and nutritional qualities, juniper deserves a more solid standing in the field of alternative medicine.

One of the most potent medicinal qualities of the juniper berry can be found in juniper, which closely resembles a natural turpentine. As a result, juniper spirits are potent diuretics, and can act to cleanse the kidneys and eliminate toxin buildup in the urinary tract. It can also help to relieve edema, or swelling of the extremeties, by releasing excess fluid from the body.

Additionally, infusions made from juniper berry are believed by some to have analgesic effects, and I have recommended it to many of my clients with arthritis, all of whom have claimed success from its use-- either alone or in combination with other anti-inflammatory supplements.

Juniper spirit's resemblance to turpentine also makes it an effective natural remedy for gastrointestinal ailments, including flatulance, stomach ulcers, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and even Crohn's disease. Juniper's ability to soothe common stomach problems makes it a must-have in the medicine cabinet of anyone with chronic digestive problems.

Although there is little-to-no research regarding the juniper berry's ability to fight herpes-family viral infections, it appears to be effective in combatting viral outbreaks like cold sores, herpes, and shingles. I have personally found that juniper essence applied to cold sores is highly effective in eliminating them, and I have had several clients experience similar results.

Juniper berries, spirits, and extracts can be used medicinally in a variety of forms. It can be taken internally as a tincture, tablet, or capsule, or applied externally when appropriate. Its essential oil can also be taken in small doses when diluted with water, although this use should be supervised by an herbalist, since juniper oil contains many strong, yet effective, volatile oils.

As always, check with your doctor or a qualified herbalist before adding any herbal supplement to your treatment plan. Only someone with a full knowledge of your medical history and the possibility of interactions can make a safe decision regarding juniper's medicinal safety in your case.

Because its natural oils are known to be uterine stimulants, juniper berry and its extracts should be avoided by pregnant women.