Juniper Berry Juniperus communis
Specifics
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| Country of Origin: Macedonia | Extraction Method: Steam Distilled |
| Chemical Families: Monoterpenes | Plant Part: Ripe fruit/Berry |
| Cultivation: Plant was Wild Crafted | Botanical Families: Cupressaceae |
| Aromas: Balsamic, Piney, Warm and Radiant, Woody | |
| Note: Top/Middle |
Personal Experience, Research, Possible Actions
Juniper Berry's detoxifying effects are outstanding. I use the oil frequently in massage oils and baths. If your client is an athlete or has done some extensive physical activity, a Juniper Berry bath with sea salts is just the thing. Juniper Berry is also used widely for edema, lymph congestion, bloating, varicose veins, and fluid retention.
I have used Juniper Berry for treating acne with good results. It is very astringent, and due to its antiseptic qualities it will help cleanse and heal the infected areas.
I also put it in my homemade cleaning products along with Pine and Lemon. It is great for bathrooms, floors, and kitchens and you increase your immune system's health as you clean, unlike using chemical cleaners that are toxic to your system.
Learn More
Traditional Knowledge
- Anti-infectious
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti rheumatic - prevents and/or relieves chronic rheumatic pain and swelling
- Provides rubifacient effect (generates localized increase in blood flow and circulation by irritation of skin, will often reduce pain and swelling), not for acute symptoms, analgesic, warming
- Antiseptic - assists in fighting germs/infections
- Antispasmodic - relieves spasms and cramps, detoxifying
- Astringent - contracts and tightens tissue, circulatory stimulant
- Diuretic - aids in reduction of fluids, tonic- nervous system
- Warming
Emotional and Energetic Qualities
Cleanses and protects
Drives out negative forces
Useful when feeling burdened or overwhelmed
Releases worry and negative thinking
Recipe
Aches and Pains Morning Bath Blend
2 drops Juniper
1 drop Rosemary
1 drop Cypress
1 drop Lavender
Add to 4 oz. of sea salt, mix well, and add to full bath.
References:
1. Battaglia S. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. 2nd edition, The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2003
2. Davis P. Aromatherapy an A-Z. New revised edition C.W. Daniel Company Limited, England, 1999
3. Keville, K. Aromatherapy, A Complete Guide to the Healing Art, The Crossing press, USA, 1995
4. Mojay G. Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, Henry Holt and Company Inc., England, 1996
5. Price S. Aromatherapy for Health Professionals, 2nd edition, Churchill Livingstone, 1999
6. Tisserand R. The Art of Aromatherapy, Healing Arts Press, USA, 1977
Safety Issues
Nontoxic, though it may cause skin irritation or sensitization if oxidized. Use in low dilution when applying to the skin such as in bath or massage oils. Some literature claims that Juniper is contraindicated in pregnancy and kidney disease. These sources are likely referring to the oil extracted from Juniperus sabina. Robert Tisserand, in his book Essential Oil Safety, states that the claims against Juniper communis are not supported by research or the specific oil's chemistry.
