Juniper Berry
Species name: Juniperus communis.
Also known as: Common juniper
Juniper essential oil has a fresh, crisp scent, and is almost clear. The texture of juniper essential oil is thin and watery.
This extract comes from a woody, evergreen, shrub-like plant and is taken from the berries and/or needles by steam distillation.
Juniper has been used in many herbal remedies. Its branches were burned to combat such formidable foes as the plague, cholera, and typhoid fever.
It was used all over Europe for its medicinal properties and had ceremonial value for many tribes of people.
Home Remedies using Juniper Berry Essential Oil
In vapor therapy juniper oil can be used in simmer pots, diffusers, or in lamp rings as a a pleasant way to cleanse the air and as an insect repellent.
Juniper oil can be blended with other essential oils and/or carrier oils to create a massage oil, or a few drops can be added to a bath to help soothe and relieve pain from swollen joints, gout, or tired and strained muscles.
A few drops of juniper oil can be placed on a cloth or cool compress to use as an antiseptic for cleansing the skin, or even as a topical solution applied with heat to help soothe arthritis.
Blends well with sandalwood, cedar wood and patchouli.
Benefits of Juniper Berry Essential Oil
Juniper essential oil is still used in aromatherapy to help stimulate urine production and aid with the passing of urine.
It can be used to help those suffering with bladder and urinary infections and even to help those who are trying to pass a kidney stone.
Juniper oil helps keep the digestive system functioning properly and is a weight loss aid.
It is a powerful tool to allay water retention, to help stimulate blood flow to the uterus, and regulate menstruation.
Juniper essential oil is a tonic beneficial on many levels such as on the skin as an astringent. It is used for various skin disorders like acne and psoriasis.
When added to creams and lotions it can help with skin inflammations from disorders such as eczema, rashes, and acne.
It is thought to help the symptoms of hangovers, and help with withdrawal symptoms from various addictions. It can calm and ease the mind making it easier to combat the moodiness and depression that can sometimes be associated with addiction.
Side Effects of Juniper Berry Essential Oil
Though juniper oil is considered not to be toxic, it should not be used during pregnancy or with anyone who has kidney problems.
Always use well diluted and do a skin sensitivity patch test before beginning to use juniper oil.
