Juniper or common juniper is a scaly or needle-like evergreen shrub with black or purple fruits. It is a very widespread plant in France. Its scientific name is Juniperus communis and it belongs to the botanical family Cupressaceae. Since ancient times, this plant has been attributed many healing properties. In terms of compositions, there are tannins, essential acids, sugar, oligo-proanthocyanidins and essential oil.
Therapeutic properties of the plant
Juniper is mainly used to restore the functions and motor skills of the entire digestive system. It participates in the stimulation of the appetite and helps to prevent various pathologies affecting the digestive tract. By promoting the elimination of gases, for example, it helps to fight against bloating, flatulence as well as cases of slow and painful digestion. In addition, it is effective in combating lack of appetite in the event of anorexia or during a period of convalescence. In addition, in case of low vitality, it acts as a general tonic. It allows, in particular, to combat physical fatigue and improves the emotional state.
This medicinal plant also promotes the depurative actions of the body. By increasing the tone of the liver and kidneys, it contributes to the stimulation of the functions of these organs. In doing so, it participates in the elimination of toxic substances naturally and prevents the formation of edema and kidney stones.
Other indications:
- Skin concerns: acne, herpes, wounds, eczema and cellulite
- Respiratory diseases: cough, pulmonary catarrhs, colds and flu
- Urogenital disorders: cystitis, irregular menstrual cycle and flow, painful menstruation
- Joint, muscle or tissue disorders: rheumatism, arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout
Forms and preparations
In natural medicine, we find juniper in the form of herbal tea or decoction, dry extracts, glycerine macerate, hydrosol, essential oil, mother tincture and capsule.
Recommendations for use and dosage
Juniper can be used internally or externally. The dosage varies depending on the form used.
Dry extracts (dried berries):
- Herbal tea: in a cup of boiling water, infuse 1 teaspoon of crushed berries for 10 minutes. Filter and consume 2 to 3 cups a day.
- Fumigation: burn the berries in a container reserved for this purpose to purify the surrounding air.
- Bath: Add a handful of ground berries to bath water to enjoy its anti-rheumatic properties.
Essential oil :
- For external use: to be mixed with vegetable oil (5% essential oil for 95% vegetable oil). Gently massage the areas to be treated with the preparation obtained.
- In atmospheric diffusion to take advantage of its benefits in well-being
Capsules:
Take 2 capsules twice a day (midday and evening)
Reasons for caution
Avoid adopting a juniper treatment in case of pregnancy, lactation and renal insufficiency. In addition, in order to avoid side effects, each use in a therapeutic setting must always be subject to medical supervision.
