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Specimen
Family
Cupressaceae
Part used
Cone berry
Origin
Northern Europe · Balkans
Supplied as
Whole dried berries
Cone berryConiferGin botanical

Juniper Berry

Juniperus communis

A crisp, resinous botanical traditionally used in digestive and urinary preparations.

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£10.00/ 100g · incl. VAT
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Organic & wildcrafted

The plant

Juniper berries are fleshy cones from an evergreen conifer. They ripen to a dark blue-black colour.

What's in it

Pinene is a fragrant compound that contributes a pine-like scent. Other aromatic oil components help create the distinctive flavour.

Alpha-pinene

The dominant terpene. Resinous and pine-like.

Myrcene

Also found in hops. Contributes the warm, slightly sweet base.

Limonene

The citrus lift.

Sabinene

Peppery and woody, more prominent in some populations.

How it works

Digestive tradition: Juniper is traditionally used for wind and a full-feeling stomach. Urinary tradition: It also has a history of encouraging urine flow. This is called a diuretic use—supporting the passage of water through the urinary tract.

In the tradition

Used in European cooking, drinks and herbal preparations.

The berries are technically fleshy cones.

How to use
  1. 1Simmer 1–2 tsp of dried juniper berry in 500ml water for 15–20 mins, then strain.
  2. 2Drink 1–2 cups daily.
  3. 3Warm, resinous, pine-like flavour.
Suitability
  • Avoid during pregnancy and with kidney disease.
  • Check medicines, breastfeeding and any fluid restriction.

A food supplement, not a substitute for a varied diet. Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.

Common questions

How do I prepare juniper berry?

Juniper Berry is simmered as a decoction rather than steeped. Simmer 1–2 tsp of dried juniper berry in 500ml water for 15–20 mins, then strain. Full directions are in the How to use panel above. See also: Infusion vs decoction.

What is juniper berry?

Juniper Berry (Juniperus communis) belongs to the Cupressaceae family; the cone berry is used. Origin: Northern Europe, Balkans. A crisp, resinous botanical traditionally used in digestive and urinary preparations.

How should I store dried juniper berry?

Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. Dried herbs are at their best for around a year.

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