Juniper was used in European folk medicine and was regarded as a cure all for typhoid, cholera, dysentery and tape worms.

The ripe blue berries are mainly used for urinary infections and prescribed to help clear acid wastes from the system in illnesses such as gout and arthritis. They are also traditionally used to reduce colic and flatulence, stimulate the digestion and encourage uterine contractions. The berries are used for the production of the volatile oil which is the prime ingredient in gin.

Volatile oil, flavonoids, sugars, glycosides, tannins, podophyllotoxin (anti-tumour agent), vitamin C

Juniper is traditionally used as a urinary antiseptic, diuretic, relieves flatulence, digestive tonic, uterine stimulant and anti-rheumatic.

Infusion This is traditionally used for stomach upsets, chills and period pain as a weak infusion (15g berries to 500ml of water).

Tincture This is traditionally used for urinary tract infections, such as cystitis, or to stimulate digestion.

Oil This is traditionally used for psoriasis of the scalp and applied 10 drops to 500ml hot water and left on the scalp for 15 minutes.

Avoid the herb in pregnancy as it is uterine tonic, may be taken during labour

Juniper may irritate the kidneys in long-term use, so do not take internally for more than six weeks without a break.