Herbs - Juniper (Juniperus communis).

What Is It?

This evergreen conifer is native to the northern hemisphere growing mainly in Scandinavia, Siberia, Canada, northern Europe and northern Asia. The berries are used to make the alcoholic spirit - Gin. It is of course also used in herbal medicine, especially for urinary problems.

Action

They contain volatile oil, tannins, resin, grape sugar, diterpene acids and vitamin C. The main active is the volatile oil - terpinol, which acts as a diuretic on the kidneys and a urinary antiseptic. It is also a digestive tonic, emmenagogue (stimulates menstruation), carminative (wind relieving) and external parasitic.

Uses

Historically it has been used to treat a number of conditions including:

• Amenorrhoea (lack of periods)
• Cystitis
• Flatulence
• Gout
• Indigestion
• Poor digestion
• Proteinuria
• Rheumatism
• Water retention

Other information

It is said by herbalists to be a unique diuretic as it does not cause excess loss of potassium. Dried berries can be eaten or used to make a herbal tea (some studies suggest that you should use no more than 2 teaspoons of berries per day). Sometimes tinctures are available and include other herbs that are diuretic such as uva ursi, cleaver or buchu.

All preparations can be taken up to three times per day, but should only be taken for a maximum of four weeks at a time.

Cautions

• The berries can over stimulate kidney action if taken in large amounts and if you suffer from any kidney disorder they should be avoided.



• During pregnancy it should be avoided completely, as it can stimulate the uterus and possibly cause miscarriage.



• If you are diabetic you can use juniper but you must inform your doctor, and have blood sugar levels checked regularly.



• It is a diuretic herb and should be avoided when using drug based diuretics, including those prescribed for high blood pressure, heart problems and water retention.



• At the time of writing there are no other well -known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications.

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk). The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.