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Juniper berries are commonly known as the flavoring for gin, but they are used for culinary and medicinal purposes, as well. The spicy, aromatic, dark berries can be used dried or fresh, crushed or whole, to flavor meats, marinades, casseroles, beverages, and fermented dishes. They have a somewhat sweet, tart, evergreen-like favor. Their astringency is more potent in fresh berries, but the dried berries are milder.
Juniper berries have health benefits, as well, due to plant compounds like flavonoid antioxidants, coumarins, and volatile oils. These volatile oils contain substances known as monoterpenes which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties, including effectiveness against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Juniper berries contain vitamin C, essential for immune health, collagen production, and blood vessel function. Juniper berries are good for heart health, acting to increase good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol. They have been used as a diuretic and for treating bladder and urinary tract infections, edema, skin infections, irritations, wounds, and for respiratory issues involving mucus.
As with all herbs and spices, please do your own research before consuming Juniper, and consult a medical professional before incorporating it into your health care. Juniper is not appropriate for children, women who are breastfeeding or may be pregnant, or people taking medications such as diuretics, blood pressure medications, and psychiatric drugs. Avoid if planning to have surgery and disclose to a medical professional if you have been consuming Juniper.
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