Juniper

Juniperus communis

For improved overall health, juniper is a must for the home shelf. It is believed to be antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, cleansing, detoxifying, antispasmodic, parasiticidal, and anti-rheumatic. Juniper is useful in skin care preparations as well. Juniper, as an antiseptic, has long been employed to clean and disinfect. When added to cleaning water, it purifies a home and leaves a clean, woodsy scent. Juniper is the plant of protection, having been used throughout the ages as a spiritual and bodily protector. In Britain, juniper was once hung on the front doors of houses to keep away witches on the eve of May, and its wood was frequently burned to banish demons. The essential oil is obtained from the ripe, blue juniper berries, which are also an important ingredient in giving it its distinctive flavor. Its aroma blends well with other oils. The essential oil can help to clear a burdened mind, building up emotional reserves. An excellent diuretic, juniper can help to cleanse the body of toxins, and speed recovery in convalescence. It can act as a sedative when used in small doses, and as a stimulant when the dosage is increased.

Juniper has been said to help relieve cellulitis by detoxifying and enabling the body to throw off toxic wastes that accumulate as a result of our contemporary lifestyle. It aids in opening and cleansing the skin, thus enabling it to function more efficiently at eliminating toxins.

General properties

• antiseptic
• depurative
• diuretic
• tonic
• antiviral
• uplifting
• warming
• sedative
• balancing

Blends well with

• bergamot
• clary sage
• geranium
• rosemary
• sandalwood

General uses

• general poor health
• rheumatoid arthritis
• insomnia
• arteriosclerosis
• cystitis
• nervous exhaustion
• all skin disorders
• wounds and sores
• rheumatism
• psoriasis
• poor circulation
• oily and open pores
• obesity
• poor memory
• lymphatic congestion
• fever
• food poisoning
• cellulite
• dermatitis
• flatulence
• gout
• hemorrhoids
• hangover
• heartburn
• indigestion
• kidney infections
• kidney stones
• painful menstruation

Caution

Juniper oil should not be used in the first two trimesters of pregnancy or by those who have kidney problems since it may prove too stimulating.