Discover the Health Benefits of Juniper Berry
Many people mistake juniper berries belonging to the family of berries. Juniper berries actually belongs to the pine family. The similarly looking berries are the scales from the scones that grow on the female plants. The most popular use for juniper berry is medicinal. Learn more of the health benefits of juniper berry and how its properties help in the treatment of certain ailments with this article.
Health Benefits For The Kidneys
Juniper berries are a known diuretic. Perhaps this is the reason why they are considered to be one of the great kidney herbs. The detoxification properties of juniper berries make the kidneys work faster and aids in getting rid of toxic waste from our bodies effectively. Juniper berries are used to treat some kidney complaints and water retention issues, and its antibacterial and antiseptic properties help in the treatment of ailments like urinary tract infections.
Digestive Health
One of the health benefits of juniper berry is its contribution to digestive health. It increases the production of stomach acid and therefore, aids in the relief of gastrointestinal complaints and reduces colic or wind and assist in the digestion of food. Indigestion problems and digestive disorders such as heartburn, belching and bloating are also given relief by juniper berry intake.
Anti-Inflammatory
Juniper berries have been known to have powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It has been widely used to diminish aches and inflammation of the muscles with regards to ailments like gout, arthritis and rheumatism. A compress made from juniper berries can be applied to inflamed nerves, muscles and tendons to relieve pain and soreness.
Treatment of Skin Conditions and Disorders
Juniper berries are used widely to treat skin conditions and disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, dandruff and athlete’s foot because of its antiseptic properties. Apart from being taken orally, juniper berries can also be applied topically to help treat skin ailments.
Anti-Aging
Juniper berries are great sources of vitamin C and flavonoids. Flavonoids and vitamin C are great antioxidants which help protect the cells from damage by harmful toxins and free radicals. Juniper berries help prevent pre-mature aging and lower stress levels of individuals.
Although research is still ongoing, flavonoids have been reported to help protect LDL from being oxidized, which leads to the formation of plaques in the arterial walls and causes blockages. It is still to be concluded if the flavonoid contents of juniper berries may help decrease the development of heart related diseases and illnesses.
Other Health Benefits of Juniper Berries
- As for the essential oils of juniper berries, it can be used in aromatherapy and help treat bronchitis by easing the passages of the bronchial tube and removing the mucus. People suffering from cystitis and urethritis also find relief in the essential oils of juniper berries.
- Herbalists have been known to recommend juniper berries to women that suffer from menstrual cramps. It is said that intake of juniper berries also help in the improvement of slow or late starting periods.
- Relieve toothaches and said to make gums stronger as well.
References:
https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/f-w00/flavonoid.html
https://www.health-care-clinic.org/alternative-medicines/juniper-berry.htm
