herb data, Juniper Berries, Juniperus communis, Juniper bush, Juniper bark, holisticonline.com

Herb Information

Name: Juniper Berries

Biological Name: Juniperus communis

Cupressaceae

Other Names: Juniper Berries, Juniper bush, Juniper bark

Parts Used: Dried fruits

Active Compounds:

	Volatile oil, containing mainly myrcene, sabinene and x-pinene, with 4-cineole, p-cymene, camphene, limonene, b-pinene, terpin-4--ol, y-terpinene, x-thujene.
	Condensed tannins; ()-afzelechin, (-)-epiafzelechin, ()-catechin, (-)-epicatechin, ()-gallocatechin and ()-epigallocatechin
	l,4-dimethyl-3-cyclohexen-l-yl, methyl ketone.
	Diterpene acids; myreocommunic, communic, sandaracopimaric, isopimaric, torulosic acids and other diterpenes such as geijerone
	Miscellaneous; sugars, resin, vitamin C.

Remedies For:

Diuretic, anti-microbial, carminative, anti-rheumatic, tonic, antiseptic, stomachic

Juniper Berries make an excellent antiseptic in conditions such as cystitis. The essential oil present is quite stimulating to the kidney nephrons and so this herb should be avoided in kidney disease. The bitter action aids digestion and eases flatulent colic. It is used in rheumatism and arthritis. Externally, it eases pain in the joints or muscles.

Dosage:

Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto l teaspoonful of lightly crushed berries and leave to infuse for 20 minutes. A cup should be drunk night and morning.

Tincture: 0.5 - 1 ml three times a day.

Safety:

CAUTION: Due to its action on the kidneys, Juniper Berries should be avoided in any kidney disease. Do not use it if you are pregnant.

No other information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.