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Juniper has been long been recognized as an extraordinary healing herb. A papyrus found in Egypt, dating to 1550 B.C., referred to juniper as a remedy to treat tapeworms. In Ayurvedic medicine, juniper is believed to purify both the physical body and the the aura.
Juniper berries, blue when they are ripe, act on the urinary, respiratory, nervous and digestive systems. They are particularly supportive of the genitourinary system, working effectively to heal infections of the urinary tract and bladder, and are extremely potent as a diuretic.
Because they reduce congestion, they are useful in treating colds and asthma. Juniper berries also help increase the flow of digestive juices, improving digestion, eliminating gas, and relieving stomach cramps.
In addition, their anti-inflammatory properties are effective in relieving pain and inflammation related to rheumatism and arthritis. Juniper berries should not be taken for more than six weeks at a time, as they may irritate the kidneys over a long term. They should be avoided by pregnant women and by people who suffer from chronic kidney disease.
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