Description

Juniperus communis is an evergreen tree native to cool, temperate parts of North America, Europe, and Asia. Juniper berries are regarded for their healthful properties and the wood for its usefulness in crafts. The purple-blueish berries are actually a fused seed cone and are harvested in early autumn. Juniper berry has a strong taste and is added sparingly to culinary recipes. The berries can also be tinctured and added to liquors for their herbaceous flavor.

The juniper is an evergreen tree native to Europe, Asia, and the northern parts of North America and it is especially abundant in central Texas and Eastern Oregon. The history and folklore concerning the juniper tree is long reaching. The first recorded mention of use is in an Egyptian papyrus from 1500 B.C.E. Juniper was the symbol of the Canaanites fertility goddess Ashera. Western European folklore tells that is a juniper tree is planted by the door to your home, a witch cannot enter. Juniper incense has also been used by the Scottish to ward off the evil eye, and by the Tibetans to remove demons. The purple, blue, violet, or blackish-brown fruits are harvested in early autumn for culinary and medicinal use. Juniper belongs to the Cupressaceae plant family.

To prevent loss of essential oil, juniper berries should not be ground, crushed, or rubbed until just before use. May be taken as a tea, extract or capsule, and may be liberally sprinkled on food or added to drinks and smoothies. Today, the best-known use of juniper berries is the main flavoring agent in gin.

Precautions: Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Use with caution in persons with inflammatory kidney disease. Not for use exceeding six weeks in succession. Processed in a facility that also produces tree nuts. Tree nut fragments may be occasionally present. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.