Juniper Essential Oil

The Use and Properties of Juniper Berry Oil in Aromatherapy

Apr 30, 2009 Sharon Falsetto

Juniper essential oil has historically been used to protect, purify and stimulate; today, juniper berry oil is used in aromatherapy for other properties too.

There are a number of species of the juniper tree but it is common juniper (Juniperus communis) which is used for its essential oil in aromatherapy; juniper berry essential oil is the preferred juniper oil for therapeutic properties and not juniper essential oil distilled from the wood and needles of the juniper tree.

Origins and Characteristics of Juniper

Juniper is a tree or shrub which is evergreen; it grows up to 20 feet in height and has blue-green needles and small flowers. The berries of the juniper tree are initially green, maturing to black after the first year. The juniper tree is native to countries of northern Europe, Canada, Scandinavia, Siberia and northern Asia; juniper essential oil is produced in France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Canada and Austria.

Distillation of Juniper Oil

Juniper essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the berries or the needles and wood; however, as previously stated, it is the essential oil distilled from the berries of the juniper tree which is the preferred oil for therapeutic purposes, as it is more pure and stronger in its actions.

Juniper berry essential oil is a superior oil to that distilled from the needles and wood of the juniper tree; however, it is more expensive than other juniper oil, making juniper berry oil open to adulteration. Juniper oil may be described under the general name 'juniper berry' when, in fact, it is not pure juniper berry essential oil.

Historical Use of Juniper

Juniper was originally believed to have magical powers and was consequently used to protect against evil; it has also been used as an incense in ceremonies to purify and stimulate. Medicinally, juniper has been used for respiratory problems, urinary infections, arthritis, rheumatism, gout, inflammation, relieve exhaustion and improve memory.

Use of Juniper Oil in Aromatherapy

Juniper essential oil has a number of properties including being antiseptic, diuretic, detoxifying, purifying, anti-catarrhal and a tonic. In aromatherapy, juniper berry essential oil is used in the treatment of bronchitis, eczema, acne, dandruff, gout (capable of dispelling uric acid from joints), fatigue, nervous exhaustion, cystitis, menstrual difficulties and prostrate problems.

Other Uses of Juniper

Juniper is used in perfumes, soap, cosmetics and detergents; it is also found in a number of food products including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The berries of juniper are used to flavor gin; juniper berries and other juniper extracts are also used in laxative preparations and veterinary medications for fleas and ticks.

Cautions for Using Juniper Oil

Juniper essential oil may cause slight irritation for those of a sensitive nature; it is not recommended for use in pregnancy as it is capable of stimulating the uterine muscle. Juniper essential oil can also be nephro-toxic and therefore not recommended for use with those who have kidney disease. As is the case when using any essential oil, care should be taken and professional advice sought, if unfamiliar with the use of essential oils.

Juniper Essential Oil

Juniper berry essential oil has a sweet, fresh aroma which is less woody than juniper leaf or twig oil; it is clear or pale yellow in color. Juniper berry essential oil is a useful oil to blend with other essential oils such as cypress, cedarwood, pine, lavender, sandalwood, rosemary, geranium, bergamot and frankincense.

References:

Lawless, Julia 1995 Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils UK: Thorsons

Price, Shirley 2000 Aromatherapy Workbook UK: Thorsons

Price, Len, Price, Shirley 2002 Aromatherapy for Health Professionals UK: Churchill Livingstone

The copyright of the article Juniper Essential Oil in Natural Medicine is owned by Sharon Falsetto. Permission to republish Juniper Essential Oil in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Juniper Berries Of The Juniper Tree