Having just come back from spending some time in Juniper Canyon in Prineville, Oregon, I thought it fitting to tell you all a little more about Juniper Berry essential oil. While it’s predominantly Western Junipers (Juniperus occidentalis) that grow in the Juniper canyon, in Aromatherapy, it’s the species of Juniperus communis that is used.
Juniper is an evergreen shrub that has green/blue needle like leaves with small yellow flowers. In some species of Juniper the male and female flowers will be on seperate trees, where as in other species you can find both male and female flowers on the same branch. Only the female flowers will produce the fruits (berries), which start out green, and over the period of three years, mature to a dark blue/black color. This shrub is generally cultivated not to grow much taller than about six feet, however in the wild it can grow up to about thirty feet.
The ancient Greeks used to use Juniper Berry as a ritual incense, to help combat epidemics, while the Tibetans and Native Americans used it for ceremonial purposes. As an herb it has been always very valued in Ancient Tibet and in Europe, for its success against contagious disease, typhoid fever and the plague.
The fresh, clean scent of juniper berry is associated with purification, and since ancient times it has been used for exactly such purposes.
Juniper berries tend to be quite well known because of their wide use. They can be fund as ingredients in laxative and diuretic preparations. The essential oil is very often used to scent soaps, detergents, lotions and even perfumes. But perhaps one of the most well known modern uses is for the flavoring of gin.
Precautions: Typically Juniper berry is contraindicated during pregnancy and in case of kidney disease. However, Tisserand disagrees, and says that Juniperus communis does not pose abortificant risk, nor complications in case of kidney disease. However, Juniperus sabina does pose arbortificant risks as well as possible complications for kidney disease.
Juniper Berry essential oil has a long list of uses, especially in aiding the skin, digestive system, cardiovascular system as well as ones emotional well being. For the skin it can help clear up congested skin, speed the healing of wounds and help in dealing with hair loss. While for the digestive system it is very useful in aiding detoxification (especially from overindulging in food or alcohol), it stimulates digestion and can help soothe an upset stomach. The cardiovascular system can benefit a great deal from Juniper berry when trying to stimulate the circulatory system, promoting drainage of accumulated toxins and when presented with Reynaud’s. Perhaps some of the best uses for this essential oil are when aiding one’s emotional health. Juniper is wonderful when trying to learn self worth, and when needing a little extra strength and warmth, not to mention it’s very cleansing and purifying.
Have you used Juniper berry essential oil before? We’d love to hear what you’ve used it for!