Description

Juniper berry

Origin and background

Evergreen juniper twigs and berries have been used for medicinal and spiritual purposes since ancient times.

Juniper berries from juniper species such as Juniperus phoenicea and Juniperus oxycedrus, have been found in several tombs in ancient Egypt. Juniperus oxycedrus is not known to grow in Egypt, nor is Juniperus excelsa, but both have been found in the tomb of Pharaoh Tutankhamun in Egypt. It is believed that these berries may have originated in Greece.

The Greeks have described the use of juniper berries as a medicine long before their use in cooking was described. For example, they used juniper berries at many Olympics because they believed they would increase the physical endurance of athletes. The Romans used juniper berries as a cheaper substitute for expensive black and long pepper imported from India.

In the Middle Ages, juniper berries were thought to help scare away witches.

The Native Americans use juniper berries for medicinal purposes and burn them to purify the air.

Properties

Aromatic properties

Due to its aromatic properties, juniper essential oil has a calming and soothing effect and can also be dispersed to purify and refresh the air.

Juniper berries are natural antiseptics, as well as the essential oil made from them. Using juniper berry essential oil in an aroma spray can also help destroy microbes in the air.

Some people who work and heal with energy and crystals also use juniper berry essential oil to cleanse and purify the crystals. However, care should be taken here, as some crystals are extremely fragile and porous and may be damaged by undiluted essential oil of juniper berry.

Juniper berry oil soothes and helps relieve stress, but it is not as intoxicating as sage and chamomile, for example.

By using this oil in an aroma diffuser or oil burner, it helps cleanse spiritually and mentally. It is also a good choice using during prayer or meditation.

Healing properties

Applying juniper berry essential oil diluted to the skin, it creates a feeling of warmth on the skin, which can help recover after a hard workout or simply relieve muscle tension. By rubbing on the feet in the same way, it can also help relieve foot congestion and tense muscles.

Juniper berry oil helps fight skin irritations, infections, and rashes. Due to its strong antiseptic properties, it is also used to treat acne. It can also be added to shampoo and conditioner if you want to get rid of dandruff or just want to soften your hair naturally.

Juniper berry oil is also attributed digestive and diuretic properties.

Recommended uses

Topical