Juniper berries are used to treat digestive complaints (dyspeptic complaints) such as flatulence, bloating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or even loss of appetite. Alone or in combination with other herbal remedies for indigestion, berries have a very general supportive effect on digestive function.
Other uses for juniper berries
Traditionally, juniper is also used to support kidney function, such as inflammation of the renal pelvis and urinary bladder. The berries are also used in flushing therapies for bacterial and inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract.
According to experience, the essential oil of the drug, applied externally, stimulates blood circulation and, accordingly, is able to relieve muscle tension and rheumatic complaints.
Juniper in folk medicine
In folk medicine, juniper is used as a stomachic and anti-flatulent for stomach cramps, indigestion and flatulence. Furthermore, it is also used here as a diuretic.
In addition to therapeutic use, juniper berries are also used to a greater extent as a spice and in the production of spirits (for example, for the production of gin).
Homeopathic use of juniper berries.
In homeopathic medicine, the fresh, ripe seed cones of juniper are used for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys and urinary tract. The dried berry cones are also used in anthroposophic therapy.
Ingredients of juniper
Juniper berries contain up to two percent essential oil, mainly α-/β-pinene, sabinene, limonene, terpinen-4-ol and borneol. In addition, flavonoids, tannins, sugars and resinous and waxy substances are present in the berries.
Juniper: Indication
Juniper berries may find application in the following cases:
- Indigestion
- Digestive disorders
- Dyspeptic complaints
- Flatulence
- Feeling of fullness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Urinary tract infection
- Muscle tension
- Rheumatic complaints
