Juniper berries are one of the oldest known diuretics, providing relief from gout, rheumatism, arteriosclerosis and cystitis.
Juniper, also known as Juniperus communis, is a plant with many virtues, both in phytotherapy and in cooking. Its berries, which take almost three years to ripen, offer benefits recognized by medicinal traditions and health authorities alike. From aiding digestion to relieving muscular pain, juniper berries stand out for their natural efficacy.
Juniper berries are particularly prized for their diuretic effect. By promoting the elimination of water by the kidneys, they detoxify the body and support urinary health. Studies carried out on extracts of these berries also show a hypoglycemic potential, reducing blood sugar levels, and a hypotensive effect, lowering blood pressure. Although these effects have mainly been observed in animals, they offer a promising prospect for the therapeutic use of juniper.
Externally, juniper essential oil is used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Applied by massage, it helps relieve joint pain and muscular tension. These benefits are confirmed by a clinical study which demonstrated an improvement in blood circulation and relief of muscular pain when diluted in a warm bath. This makes juniper an invaluable ally for chronic pain sufferers.
The traditional uses of juniper berries go far beyond this. They are sometimes used to stimulate the appetite, alleviate flu symptoms or for their antiviral properties against herpes labialis. Despite the absence of clinical studies confirming these uses, the empirical knowledge surrounding juniper persists, supporting its use as part of a preventive alternative medicine.
Health authorities such as the EMA (European Medicines Agency) and the German Commission E recognize the traditional use of juniper berries to relieve digestive disorders and as a complementary diuretic treatment for urinary tract infections. These recommendations emphasize a limited duration of use of three weeks in order to avoid any undesirable effects linked to prolonged or excessive use.
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To benefit from the virtues of juniper berries, you can use them in a decoction. Here's how to do it:
If you're looking for a diuretic effect, follow the protocol recommended by the European Medicines Agency:
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Precautions for use
Juniper berries should not be used in cases of kidney disease, such as nephritis, pyelonephritis or renal failure. If you suffer from renal colic or urinary tract obstruction, avoid treatment with juniper or other diuretics, as this may aggravate symptoms and cause severe pain.
Overdosage or prolonged treatment (more than four weeks) may lead to serious side effects: kidney pain, difficulty in urinating, presence of blood or protein in the urine. These symptoms may precede irreversible kidney damage. Other adverse effects, such as accelerated heart rate, increased blood pressure or convulsions, may also occur in the event of overconsumption.
Pregnant or breast-feeding women should avoid using juniper berries, except for culinary purposes. Animal studies show that juniper can induce uterine bleeding or spontaneous abortion. Furthermore, use in children under 18 is not recommended, except for culinary purposes.
Juniper berries contain over a hundred active substances. Here are the main ones: Alpha Pinenes, Beta Pinenes, Terpinene-4-Ol, Myrcene, Caryophyllene, Flavonoids, Tannins...
Latin name: Juniperus communis L.
Family: Cupressaceae, cupressaceae
Common names:Genièvre, Pétrot, Pétron, cadé, génilibre, thériaque des paysans
Parts used :
Origin: Woodland shrub, found in Europe and Asia, very common in southern France. Fruits are small green berries that turn black with age.
Juniperus comes from the Celtic juneprus, "acrid", because of the fruit's flavor.
Presentation
Available in 100 g, 250 g or 1 kg bags.
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