Juniper ( Juniperus communis ) is a great herb with many health benefits. The parts of the herb that are used are the berries The berries are gathered in the Fall. The berries turn purple-blue when ripe.
The major constituents are volatile oils, vitamin C, flavonoids and tannins The medicinal actions are analgesic, antibacterial, and anti inflammatory. The other actions are anti rheumatism, antiseptic and urinary antiseptic.
You can use juniper in a variety of ways. Can be used as an infused oil, liniment, tincture, massage oil and even food as honey
Juniper berries are strongly antiseptic for the urinary tract infections, urethritis, and even prostatitis. The berries are cleansing and can even enhance the removal of kidney stones. It also helps decrease build up of uric acid and general toxins in the kidneys.
I use juniper in the following ways
As a tea : For gas and bloating and to strengthen digestion
As a tea for cold and flu : I mix with rose hips and lemon balm
For cellulitis and acne: Use as a topical application
For dandruff: prepare as a decoction of the berries for the scalp