Juniper Berries

What are Juniper Berries?

Also known as Baccae juniperi, Juniperus communis, Juniperi fructus, or ginepro, Juniper is an evergreen tree that grows mainly in the plain regions of Europe.

Juniper has been used in traditional herbal medicine to treat many conditions that include gout, warts and skin growths, cancer, upset stomach, and various urinary tract and kidney diseases.

Juniper has been used to clear uric acid from the body. It is high in natural insulin, and has the ability to heal the pancreas where there has been no permanent damage. The antiseptic volatile oil is excreted in the urine which disinfects the urinary tract as it passes through. This action is enhanced by a diuretic effect which dilutes the urine. It is useful for all urinary infections and for water retention problems.

Juniper warms to the digestive system and increases the production of stomach acid, stimulates the appetite, settles the stomach, and relieves gas. It can thus be used in treating gastrointestinal complaints due to low stomach acid.

Juniper's anti-inflammatory properties help to relieve the inflammation, stiffness, and pain that are present in conditions like arthritis, rheumatism, and gout. The diuretic action of Juniper helps to reduce this fluid retention around the joints.

Side Effects and Warnings of Juniper Berries

Adverse reactions to juniper include local irritation. Use of juniper and anti-hypertensives may interfere with blood pressure. You should never use Juniper Berries with alcohol.

Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should avoid juniper because of its uterine stimulant. It can even lead to spontaneous abortions if not checked.

Juniper shouldn't be used by those with renal insufficiency, inflammatory disorders of the GI tract (such as Crohn's disease), seizure disorders, or known hypersensitivity. It shouldn't be used topically on large ulcers or wounds because it may cause local irritation.

Continuous use of Juniper berries may cause seizures and kidney failure; as such one should never use this supplement without talking to their medical practitioner.

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