Juniper is used medicinally throughout the world, but it can cause serious side effects, which restricts its use apart from using small amounts. Despite its long history of medicinal use, particularly in Europe and China, there is no available information verifying the efficacy of juniper for any health problem. Consult with your health-care provider before using juniper for therapeutic reasons.
Identification and Dosing
Juniper is also known by other names, such as common juniper, oil of juniper and juniper berry oil. Juniper can be taken as a tea, which is prepared by adding 1 tsp., or about 2 to 3 g, of crushed juniper berry to 5 oz. of boiling water for 10 minutes and then straining. The daily dose should not exceed 10 g of the dried berry or 20 to 100 mg of the essential oil, according to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, or NMCD.
Uses
Juniper is used for indigestion, gas, bloating, loss of appetite, urinary tract infections, kidney and bladder stones, diabetes and cancer. It is also used to treat gastrointestinal infections, intestinal worms and snake bites. Juniper is used on the skin to treat wounds and relieve arthritis pain in muscles and joints. Some people inhale juniper vapor for bronchitis.
Effectiveness
Juniper berries may contain substances that relieve inflammation and gas, as well as fight bacteria and viruses, says the NMCD. However, there is not enough information from human studies to rate the effectiveness of juniper for any medicinal use.
Considerations
According to the NMCD, juniper is generally safe when used in appropriate doses for less than four weeks. When taken for longer periods of time, juniper can cause dangerous side effects, such as elevated blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, kidney injury and seizures. Juniper can also cause allergic reactions that affect the skin and respiratory system, according to Drugs.com.
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