The Juniper
Written and Researched by Margaret Odrowaz-Sypniewska, B.F.A.

Juniper (Juniperus communis)

Juniper comes from the Dutch word jenever and it prefers to grow in dry, rocky ground. In the 1500's, a Dutch pharmacist used the Juniper berries to create a new, inexpensive diuretic that he called gin. Juniper has been a folk remedy for urinary tract problems including retention and gallstones. It was also used successfully in the treatment of gout, a condition marked by the painful inflammation of the joints caused by deposits of uric acid and a high uric acid content in the blood. The berry is good for digestion and can help eliminate gas and cramps. It helps rid the body of all excess fluids (Mindell, Earl. Earl Mindell's Herb Bible. New York: A Fireside Book, 1992.).

The Juniper bark and berries are used for kidney, urinary, and bladder problems. It is excellent as a spray for fumigation. Berries chewed or as a tea can be used for a gargle, as a good immunizer (Bethel, May. The Healing Power of Herbs. Hollywood, CA.: Wiltshire Book Company, 1970).

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