Description
Botanical: Juniperus communis
Other common names: Common Juniper, Ginepro, Enebro, Ground Juniper, Hackmatack, Horse Savin
Excess water weight? Juniper Berry promotes urine flow and helps to clear the kidneys, bladder and prostate of toxic wastes, while at the same time helping to combat urinary tract infections in both men and women. Well-known in the kitchen and as a flavoring for gin, Juniper Berry's warm, aromatic qualities aid digestion and also help to relieve gout, arthritis and painful joints.
Country of Origin: Macedonia
Beneficial Uses:
Juniper Berry is an effective diuretic and antiseptic that not only promotes the flow of urine, but also treats infection of the urinary tract at the same time. As a diuretic, the herb stimulates the kidneys and bladder to get rid of retained and excess water (possibly also helping in cases of obesity). Juniper increases the filtering of waste products by the kidneys and helps to expel prostate sediment and gallstones. It is also thought to dissolve kidney stones.
The herb helps to prevent the crystallization of uric acid in the kidneys, retaining it in a solution and passing it in the urine; this is of great benefit to those suffering from gout (a condition marked by painful inflammation of the joints caused by uric acid deposits).
As an herbal antiseptic and further aiding urinary and prostate health, Juniper Berry is helpful in combating bacteria, including urinary and bladder infections, such as cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, vaginitis and inflamed kidneys, etc.
Juniper Berry is an old herbal therapy for the digestive tract. The active volatile oil content helps to eliminate gas and expel intestinal flatulence and assists in the digestion of gassy foods like cabbage, etc. The herb has been used to ease stomach cramps, colic and indigestion; and in small doses, it stimulates the appetite.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Juniper Berry are thought to ease the pain of rheumatism, arthritis, sore muscles and gout.
Juniper Berry has traditionally shown excellent results in the treatment of lung disorders as an effective expectorant and decongestant. It is highly recommended in catarrhal conditions and has helped to ease breathing and treat bronchial asthma, emphysema, sinusitis, head colds, flu and general congestion.
Juniper Berry is considered a purifier of the blood and overall system cleanser, and by removing acid and toxic wastes from the body, the herb helps to reduce overall susceptibility to disease. As an excellent antiseptic, it helps to control general infection and disease.
In preliminary lab studies, Juniper has demonstrated antiviral activity against virus A-2 and Herpes simplex virus I and II.
Contraindications:
Pregnant women should not use Juniper Berry Herbal Supplement, because it stimulates the uterus and may cause abortion. The USFDA does not recommend this herb as safe, and prolonged use (more than a month) is not recommended, as it may cause kidney damage. If kidney disease is suspected, Juniper berries may over-stimulate the kidneys and adrenals and should be avoided. Those with kidney disease or acute kidney infection should avoid this herb. Juniper should not be used in cases of heavy menstrual flow, and the herb may interfere with the absorption of iron and other minerals. Some people may have allergic responses to Junipers.
