Juniper berries hold a strong flavor and are not the type of berry you pop in your mouth as a snack. They are mostly used for flavoring but the whole berry is edible if you like bitterness. Juniper berries are nutritious, but consuming too many of them can cause considerable side effects.
Identification
There are approximately 40 varieties of juniper, according to the New York Times. Some are poisonous and many are bitter. There are a few juniper berries that are edible and one that is used often for flavoring. The common, flavoring juniper grows naturally in Asia, Europe and North America from low-spreading shrubs. These juniper berries are blue-black with a white bloom and have a piny aroma.
Nutrients
Juniper berries consist of volatile oil, calcium, carbohydrates, chromium, cobalt, copper and essential oil. The volatile oils have a turpentine smell and are what give the berries a bitter taste. They also have fats, fiber, iron, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, protein and vitamin C. The amount of juniper berries needed for medicinal use is one to five drops of concentrated oil, or 20 to 100 mg. Dried berries steeped in water for tea -- between 2 g and 10 g -- have been used as a diuretic.
Uses
The common juniper is mostly used to flavor gin, but it is also used as a spice in European dishes. Juniper goes well with rich, gamy or fatty foods such as duck, wild boar or reindeer. Juniper berries have a powerful flavor and can be used as a spice, puree or as a flavoring. It also goes well in any dish that requires alcohol, pairs well with wine marinades and is used to season pates and sauces. Juniper blends well with garlic, onion, oregano, sage or allspice and marries well with fruit dishes.
Alternative Uses
Juniper berries and leaves have been used for kidney and urinary-tract health and optimum blood pressure, according to the Epicentre website. The berries have also been used for treating gout, warts, skin growths, cancer, upset stomach and promoting regularity. Juniper berries have antiseptic properties which can help remove waste and acidic toxins from your body and fight against infections. They increase digestive flow, eliminating excess water. The berries also boast anti-inflammatory properties which can help relieve pain and inflammation.
Risks
Consuming too many juniper berries poses a health risks and is not advised. An excess of juniper berries can irritate the kidneys. It may also promote diarrhea, purple urine, blood in the urine, kidney pain, intestinal pain, elevated blood pressure or a fast heartbeat, according to the Vitamins and Health Supplements Guide website. Since juniper berries can stimulate the kidneys to filter more quickly than normal, they may reduce the absorption of iron and other minerals. Pregnant women, or women who are trying to become pregnant should not consume juniper berries. Consult your doctor before adding them to your diet.
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