The Amazing Properties of Juniper Berries

Juniper is a small shrub about 4 to 6 feet high. This tree is evenly scattered in in the Northern Hemisphere. Its berries are used by many people for medicinal purposes. Medical preparations include essential oil and Juniper berry extract.

Juniper berries are used for digestive problems like stomach upset, heart burn, and flatulence, loss of appetite and even in treating gastrointestinal worms. It is also used for kidney and bladder stones as well as urinary tract infections.

Anti-inflammatory and Antiseptic Effect

Juniper berries are used as alternative treatment for psoriasis and arthritis because it helps in the reduction of inflammation of the joints and skin. The Juniper berry oil can be applied on wounds to inhibit growth of bacteria. The plant can be ingested or applied topically.

Diuretic Effect

Juniper stimulates urinary passages resulting in fast fluid removal of the kidneys. This is helpful for those with renal insufficiency and sluggishly working kidneys.

Juniper Oil

To make Juniper oil you need the following:

– 1 cup dried and crushed juniper berries
– 2 cups olive or canola oil
– Small pot
– Stove
– 2 glass jars
– 4 cups beeswax
– Cheese cloth
– Microwave
– Rubber band

1. Place the berries and the oil in the glass jar and cover. Shake at least once a day for 2 weeks until you get a fragrant oil.

2. Place the wax inside the other jar and put it inside the microwave. Heat for 1 minute at a time until it is in its liquid form. While the jar is still in the microwave, cover it with the cheese cloth and securing with the rubber band.

3. Pour the oil from the other jar into a saucepan and heat until it is warm to touch.

4. Transfer the oil into the other jar with wax and stir. Check the consistency of the wax. If it’s too soft heat it for another minute or until you get your desired consistency.

Juniper Berry Bath

– 1 tsp. crushed juniper berries
– 4 drops lavender oil
– 2 drops juniper oil
– ½ cup sea salt
– 1/2cup baking soda
– 12 oz. jar

1. Put the berries on the jar together with the oil and mix thoroughly

2. Add the baking soda and the salt into the jar.

3. Cover the jar and shake.

4. On your tub with hot water, add your prepared juniper bath. Enjoy the smell of the juniper berries released by the hot water. When the waters temperature is tolerable, you can now soak.