Description
Common Juniper (Juniperus communis) is a nice evergreen bush that can grow into tree. You can recognize it by its spiky leaves, green and dark blue berries. They are green in the beginning, when they mature green turns into dark blue. That happens every two years, because Juniper blooms in the spring but its berries became ripe next year in the autumn.
Use
Only dark blue Juniper berries are used (usually dry) for healing, as a spice or for making alcoholic drinks.
In some countries Juniper berries are used for making beer, wine, aromatic vinegar, for giving aroma to gin and other alcoholic drinks.
In the kitchen it is used as a spice for meat and fish. Also for making jam and compote.
DryingJuniper berries are dried in the sun or artificial heat.
Healing
Common Juniper is used for digestion, respiratory system, gout, rheumatism, sciatica, disinfection of urinary tract and respiratory system.
When not to use it ?
It shouldn't be used in case of acute urinary infection.
Pregnant women mustn't use Juniper because it can induce labours.
Juniper shouldn't be used in big amounts because it can be damagin to the kidneys.
TEA
Tea is made from blue Juniper berries. It is good for digestive and respiratory problems.
To make tea, crush 1 teaspoon of dry berries, pour over them 1 cup of boiled water, cover. Strain after 5-10 min.
Drink 1-2 cups for problems with stomach and intestine.
For respiratory diseases add little bit of honey in a warm tea and drink it right away.
Tea can also be made from young spring sprouts, it is full of vitamins.
Tincture
Tincture is good for digestive problems, rheumatism, gout and sciatica.
It is made from 20g of dark blue Juniper berries and 5dl of alcohol (about 40%). Put the berries in the jar and pour alcohol over . Close it and leave in warm place for 1 week. Shake it from time to time. Strain and pour into bottle.
You can drink it in small amounts for digestive problems. For rheumatism, gout and sciatica rub it on the painful places.
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