Juniper Berry

Juniperus communis

Origin: Nepal
Family: Cupressaceae
Part used: Berries on twigs

Juniper berries come from the evergreen Juniper tree. They are hardy, drought-resistant trees growing to 40 metres tall. There are between 50 and 67 species of junipers and they are native to many parts of the world, including North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Africa. The berries are not a true berry, but a cone with fleshy scales, which gives it a berry-like appearance. It is used in the distillation of gin and has many other culinary uses. Juniper berry oil has antiseptic properties and is said to boost joint health and immunity.
Overview
Fragrance notes
Woody, spicy and clean with a touch of bitter pine.

Blending notes
Blends well with: Lavender True, Chamomile German and Wintergreen.
History
Juniper has a long history of medicinal use for urinary infections, respiratory complaints and joint problems. The Greeks used juniper berries medicinally long before they used them in food. They believed that feeding the berries to athletes and warriors improved physical stamina. It is reported to include antiseptic, diuretic, detoxifying, purifying, and tonic properties. The fresh, woody, slightly sweet aroma of Juniper has been said to evoke feelings of love, health and peace. Known as the tree of life in Europe, the Juniper is associated with calm and strength.

Please note: the traditional uses listed here are for reference only and should not be taken as recommendations for treatment, or cure, of any disease or medical condition. Therapeutic plant oils are used to support natural body processes towards improved health and wellbeing.
Uses
Joint function
Add 5-8 drops to Castor oil and apply to the joint. Wrap in a cloth and cover with glad wrap to maintain warmth. Leave overnight. Alternatively, add 5 drops to a bath/footbath and soak for 15 minutes. Repeat every night for 10-21 days, then take a break for 10 days and repeat if required.
Therapeutic baths should not exceed 15 minutes.

Detox
Add 5 drops to a diffuser or bath. Enhance further with 7 drops Cypress and 10 drops Lemon. Repeat every other day for one month. Therapeutic baths should not exceed 15 minutes.

Digestion
Combine 3 drops with 3 drops of Rosemary Cineol oil and add to a warm compress to the abdomen. Repeat as required.

Calming
Add 5 drops to a diffuser. Fortify both fragrance and effect with 10 drops Lavender True and 5 drops Cedarwood Atlas.
Safety considerations
Not recommended during pregnancy. Not recommended for children under 12 years of age. Safe to use with other medication when necessary. If accidentally ingested do not induce vomiting, follow with olive oil or milk and seek advice from a health specialist. Avoid contact with eyes - flush with water. Keep out of reach of children.

Please note: Therapeutic plant oils are used to support natural body processes for optimum health and wellbeing. The information here is NOT meant as a recommendation to cure any medical condition or disease.
Ingredients
Key ingredients
100% pure Juniperus communis, distilled berry on twigs, Nepal
Key component
alpha-Pinene, Myrcene, Limonene, Sabinene, beta-Pinene