This evergreen conifer is native to the northern hemisphere growing mainly in Scandinavia, Siberia, Canada, northern Europe and northern Asia. The berries are used to make the alcoholic spirit – Gin.
Juniper is of course also used in herbal medicine, especially for urinary problems.
Medicinal Properties of Juniper
Juniper contain volatile oil, tannins, resin, grape sugar, diterpene acids and vitamin C. The main active is the volatile oil – terpinol, which acts as a diuretic on the kidneys and a urinary antiseptic. It is also a digestive tonic, emmenagogue (stimulates menstruation), carminative (wind relieving) and external parasitic.
Juniper Herbal Remedies
Historically Juniper has been used to treat a number of conditions including:
Amenorrhoea (lack of periods)
Cystitis
Flatulence
Gout
Indigestion
Poor digestion
Proteinuria
Rheumatism
Water retention
Other Juniper Information
It is said by herbalists to be a unique diuretic as it does not cause excess loss of potassium. Dried berries can be eaten or used to make a herbal tea (some studies suggest that you should use no more than 2 teaspoons of berries per day). Sometimes tinctures are available and include other herbs that are diuretic such as uva ursi, cleaver or buchu.
All preparations can be taken up to three times per day, but should only be taken for a maximum of four weeks at a time.
Side Effects of Juniper
The berries can over stimulate kidney action if taken in large amounts and if you suffer from any kidney disorder they should be avoided.
During pregnancy it should be avoided completely, as it can stimulate the uterus and possibly cause miscarriage.
If you are diabetic you can use juniper but you must inform your doctor, and have blood sugar levels checked regularly.
Juniper is a diuretic herb and should be avoided when using drug based diuretics, including those prescribed for high blood pressure, heart problems and water retention.
At the time of writing there are no other well known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications.
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