Juniper is a powerful diuretic – a herb that increases the flow of urine, helping to cleanse the system of excess fluids and stimulatingthe kidneys. This causes the body to flush out uric acid and excess crystals that can cause many problems including gout, arthritis and kidney stones.
The Juniper Berry is rich in volatile oils, in particular terpinen-4-ol, which is reported to increase the rate of kidney filtration, which in turn increases urine flow whilst helping to flush out bacteria from the kidneys and bladder. This makes Juniper exceptionally useful in the treatment of urinary tract infections, with some patients reporting relief after just 24-72 hours of use. The British Pharmacopoeia even lists Juniper as a urinary tract disinfectant.
Digestive Health
Juniper Berries contain bitter compounds that stimulate bile flow and the production of digestive enzymes. This allows the body to breakdown foods more easily and enhances nutrient absorption. Due to their astringent properties they are particularly effective at relieving heartburn and other digestive upsets.
Juniper can also be useful in the treatment of upset stomachs, colitis, gastrointestinal infections, loss of appetite and intestinal worms.
Antioxidant
Many of Juniper’s health benefits stem from the potent antioxidant activity displayed by these berries. They are rich in antioxidant phytochemicals including; alpha-pinene, cadinene, limonene, myrcene, borneol, caryophyllene and germacrene, to name but a few of the staggering 87 antioxidant compounds found in these humble berries.
Juniper berries also promote the activity of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase. These are vital antioxidants found in the body that protect from free radical damage. Free radicals are rogue atoms or atomic groups that have lost at least one electron, forcing them to steal electrons from neighbouring molecules in the hope of stabilising themselves. Unsurprisingly, this can cause havoc in the body, leading to a whole host of health problems.
Antioxidants also help to maintain youthful and healthy skin by fighting wrinkles, aiding in cell regeneration and reducing inflammation.
Diabetes
Juniper Berries are sometimes referred to as “Nature’s Insulin”, and they have indeed been shown to contain natural insulin that can work in the body just like its pharmaceutical counterpart. Animal research shows that the berries contain certain compounds that increase insulin production, thus lowering blood sugar levels. This could make Juniper Berries a powerful ally when addressing diet controlled (type 2) diabetes.
Juniper Berry Essential Oil
Juniper Berry essential oil is packed with healing compounds and antioxidants and as such has a wide range of uses. It can be diluted in a carrier oil to create a massage or bath oil that can help to clear sluggish lymph glands and detoxification pathways, leaving you feeling both stimulated yet relaxed.
Juniper Berry oil is considered one of the most effective essential oils for dealing with anxiety related to inner trauma, exerting a positive effect on the relaxation responses in the brain when it is inhaled.
It is a wonderful essential oil to cleanse and purify on all levels – spiritually, emotionally and physically.
FAQs
Aside from its potential role as a natural antimicrobial, juniper is best known for its ability to improve digestion . In traditional medicine, juniper berries have often been used to treat digestive problems, such as stomach upset, intestinal gas, indigestion, inflammation and ulcers.
What do juniper berries do to your body? ›
Juniper is used for digestion problems including upset stomach, intestinal gas (flatulence), heartburn, bloating, and loss of appetite, as well as gastrointestinal (GI) infections and intestinal worms. It is also used for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and kidney and bladder stones.
Is juniper good for the kidneys? ›
Kidney Health
Juniper is a powerful diuretic – a herb that increases the flow of urine, helping to cleanse the system of excess fluids and stimulating the kidneys. This causes the body to flush out uric acid and excess crystals that can cause many problems including gout, arthritis and kidney stones.
How many juniper berries per day? ›
Dosing. Generally, 2 to 10 g/day of the whole, crushed, or powdered fruit (corresponding to 20 to 100 mg of essential oil) has been used for dyspepsia. Essential oil: 0.02 to 0.1 mL 3 times daily. Fluid extract: 1:1 (g/mL); 2 to 3 mL 3 times daily.
Who should not take juniper berries? ›
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It's UNSAFE to use juniper if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. Juniper's effects on the uterus might interfere with fertility or cause a miscarriage. It's also best to avoid using juniper if you are breast-feeding.
Can juniper berries raise blood pressure? ›
Juniper berries also function as an “anticholinesterase agent.” (28) This is important for heart function because anticholinesterase agents (natural or pharmaceutical) help to build up acetylcholine in the nervous system, which in turn can slow heart action, lower blood pressure, increase blood flow and induce ...
Are juniper berries safe to eat raw? ›
These strong berries are often dried and used sparingly for cooking and home remedies. The intense taste of the juniper berry means eating it raw is not advised, but it can be used for a variety of things in the kitchen. Ripe berries can be used in a marinade or applied to meat before cooking.
Is juniper berry good for hair growth? ›
Juniper berry oil prevents your hair from losing its natural oils by acting as a barrier and locking in moisture. It also can increase hair growth when used regularly.
Is juniper berry good for the liver? ›
Importantly, juniper berry oil reduced cell death in pericentral regions of the liver lobule by 75%. Trypan blue distribution time, an indicator of the hepatic microcirculation, was reduced by approximately 25% with fish oil and over 50% by juniper berry oil diets compared with corn oil controls.
How to prepare juniper berries for consumption? ›
Juniper Berries?
- Crush the berry or toast it; crush it if you want a stronger flavor.
- Rub it into the meat with some ginger or garlic.
- Sear the meat.
- Deglaze the hot pan (add some liquid to loosen up the meat flavors at the bottom of the pan).
- Add some eggplant or a tart apple, such as a Braeburn or a Granny Smith.
Juniper Berry is renowned for its detoxifying properties and it is this property that helps clear congestion in the skin, by encouraging healthy circulation and lymphatic system. Juniper Berry helps tone muscles and skin, helping to improve the appearance, making Juniper Berry useful in cellulite skincare blends.
What is juniper good for spiritually? ›
The ancient magical properties of juniper include love/attraction, protection, good luck, increased visions, wisdom, prosperity & clarity. Juniper has been popularly used in blessing & purification rituals. It also symbolises luck and protection.
What happens if you eat too many juniper berries? ›
Allergic reactions are possible. Consuming large amounts of juniper berries may cause catharsis, convulsions, or harm kidney function. The berries of some species, such as J.
How does juniper weight loss work? ›
The treatment is made up of a molecule that works like the glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor. GLP-1 is an appetite hormone that your body naturally produces to help regulate hunger. Juniper's medication works like GLP-1 by suppressing your appetite and increasing the feeling of being full.
Are juniper berries good for your stomach? ›
Juniper activates the digestive system and stimulates digestive processes. For those with excess gas or in situations with gas producing foods, juniper can help minimize flatulence. In the intenstines, the antiseptic properties prevent and treat infection, and can be used to expel intestinal worms.
