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Is eating juniper berries good for you?
Juniper berries or extract of the plant has traditionally been used as diuretic, anti-arthritis, anti-diabetes, antiseptic as well as for the treatment of gastrointestinal and autoimmune disorders.
What are the side effects of juniper berry?
Using juniper on the skin can cause some side effects including irritation, burning, redness, and swelling. Avoid using it on large skin wounds. Taking juniper by mouth long-term or in a high dose is LIKELY UNSAFE as it can cause kidney problems, seizures, and other serious side effects.
Can you drink juniper berries?
Yes, juniper berries are edible. In fact, you may have tasted them before without even knowing it if you drink alcoholic beverages. Juniper berries are what gives a gin martini its unique flavoring.
What can juniper berries be used for?
Juniper berries are a key ingredient in gin, and you can also use them to flavor meats and sauces, and to ferment foods such as homebrewed beverages and sauerkraut. You can also use the wild yeast on juniper berries as a starter for sourdough bread.
Are juniper berries toxic?
The berries produced by Juniperus sabina and Juniperus oxycedrus are toxic. Only consume berries from juniper plants that you can positively identify. The entire juniper plant contains Savin oil which is harmful to the kidneys even in small doses. Prolonged ingestion can cause severe kidney damage.
Can you drink juniper berry tea?
Dried juniper berries can be made into a delicious and healthy herbal tea.
How many juniper berries can you eat a day?
Juniper berry supplements and extracts can be purchased online and in certain health food stores. Because human studies are lacking, it's unclear what dosage is most effective to reap their medicinal benefits. Most juniper berry supplement labels recommend taking 1–6 grams per day, divided into multiple doses.
Does juniper raise blood pressure?
Juniper berries also function as an “anticholinesterase agent.” (28) This is important for heart function because anticholinesterase agents (natural or pharmaceutical) help to build up acetylcholine in the nervous system, which in turn can slow heart action, lower blood pressure, increase blood flow and induce ...
Are juniper berries poisonous in gin?
The common juniper, Juniperus communis, is the variety most often used to make gin, medicines, and food dishes, as it is considered safe for human consumption.
Are juniper berries considered a fruit?
juniper berry | fruit | Britannica.
What is the white powder on juniper berries?
The “berries” of juniper trees are actually fleshy cones, not true berries at all, that are usually covered with a white powdery bloom. That bloom is actually wild yeast, and you can use the berries to make your own wild yeast starter for homebrewing!
Should you toast juniper berries?
If you want a strong juniper aroma and flavor to your dish, crushing fresh berries before adding them to a sauce or marinade is the way to go. For a more subtle flavor, you can toast the berries, but be careful not to burn them or they'll taste bitter.
Is juniper good for kidneys?
Kidney Health Juniper is a powerful diuretic – a herb that increases the flow of urine, helping to cleanse the system of excess fluids and stimulating the kidneys. This causes the body to flush out uric acid and excess crystals that can cause many problems including gout, arthritis and kidney stones.
Is juniper good for high blood pressure?
Juniper berries also function as an “anticholinesterase agent.” (28) This is important for heart function because anticholinesterase agents (natural or pharmaceutical) help to build up acetylcholine in the nervous system, which in turn can slow heart action, lower blood pressure, increase blood flow and induce ...
Is juniper good for your liver?
Both juniper berry oil and fish oil treatment improved rates of bile flow from 25 microL/g/h (corn oil) to 36 and 38 microL/g/h, respectively. Importantly, juniper berry oil reduced cell death in pericentral regions of the liver lobule by 75%.
How many juniper berries can you eat a day?
Juniper berry supplements and extracts can be purchased online and in certain health food stores. Because human studies are lacking, it's unclear what dosage is most effective to reap their medicinal benefits. Most juniper berry supplement labels recommend taking 1–6 grams per day, divided into multiple doses.
Why are juniper berries good for you?
Because they have a large quantity of antioxidants, juniper berries have a long list of health benefits. Consuming juniper berries can help to prevent major diseases, kill bacteria, improve the appearance of the skin, treat insomnia and even kill the parasite that causes leishmaniasis.
What are the three antioxidants that juniper berries have?
Perhaps most significantly, the activity of three extremely important antioxidants in the body is encouraged by juniper berries: superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase and glutathione peroxidase. (9) Issues with SOD are linked to ALS, Down syndrome, cancers and lung issues.
What did the Greeks use juniper berries for?
Long before they were used in food, the Greeks used juniper berries as medicine and stimulants for Olympic athletes. (5) Romans used them as a less expensive pepper substitute.
What is a juniper plant?
They are female seed cones that come juniper plants — a type of conifer ( Pinophyta ), which is a cone-bearing plant or tree. Juniper plants vary in appearance and can grow low and wide like a shrub or tall like a tree. Their uniquely fleshy, merged scales make them look like a berry, thus the name.
Is juniper berry essential oil a natural antiseptic?
Natural antiseptic. The antibacterial and antifungal qualities of juniper berries have stood the test of time — which is one reason that juniper berry essential oil is often suggested as a natural household cleaning agent. These berries have compelling effects on many strains of bacteria and fungi.
Can you eat juniper berries with gin?
In addition to their slightly misleading name, juniper berries are also not a berry you would generally eat with breakfast, like blueberries (even though they’re similar in size). Instead, juniper berries are often used as a bitter spice. In fact, they give gin its distinctive flavor.
Can juniper berries heal wounds?
In an examination of how animal wounds healed when treated with juniper berry essential oil, researchers discovered that two cultivars of juniper berries “displayed remarkable wound healing and anti-inflammatory activities.” (18) This suggests the ancient use of juniper berries as a skin healer has its roots in scientific fact.
How much and how to eat juniper berries?
Regarding how much to eat juniper berries ? It is not advisable to eat a lot of juniper berries, rather, it is not advisable to integrate them into all our meals. Use them as a side and add only a small amount to any recipes you want to make. Ideally, you should use them in one or two dishes a week, at a minimum.
Why do people use Juniper berries?
When it comes to skin problems, juniper berries are presented as a repair option . It benefits the tissues of our skin, acting as an antiseptic and healing treatment. Helping you to improve conditions caused by acne, diseases such as eczema and dermatitis. Even on the scalp like dandruff.
How many juniper berries are needed for a juniper berry stew?
To prepare this recipe, you will only need: 2 large juniper berries, half a kilo of stewed meat (minced), half a white onion, a quarter paprika, 1 joint garlic, 1 onion on the branch, tomato puree (to taste), 3 canned tomatoes (peeled), 1 egg, oregano, minced garlic, olive oil, 80 cc of white wine, breadcrumbs (to taste) and 2 white cabbages.
How much salt to use in juniper seasoning?
To prepare this multifunctional seasoning you will need: 40 grams of salt, garlic (to taste), virgin or vegetable olive oil, 2 large juniper berries, 2 grams of ginger and a mortar. The first thing will be to crush the berries very well in the mortar, until they are completely crushed, add the other ingredients, stir until compact and that’s it.
What does a juniper smell like?
Juniper berries have been characterized for being ideal as flavorings , for their strong and penetrating smell. It is very compared to the spicy or pine scent. However, this is not as strong as that of the same branches and leaves. It is recommended to inhale its aroma and they say that it can tell you how fresh the berries are.
How many juniper berries should I use for a sauce?
To prepare this colloquial and homely sauce you will need: 15 to 20 large juniper berries, 10 tomatoes of a good size (that is, large), a cup of water, salt, pepper, previously crushed garlic, coriander, onion, paprika, sweet pepper, peas, I’m sauce and vegetable oil.
What color are juniper berries?
The color of juniper berries will vary depending on the species , planting time and maturity of the fruit, they begin being green when they are young and they darken (to a more red, purple or black color) when they mature, once they are are dry, when they are ready to use in the kitchen, their color will be the characteristic blue-purple.
Why are juniper berries used?
Juniper berries have been used in medicinal applications from ancient times due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrhoeal, and antiseptic properties. They are also highly concentrated with vitamins such as vitamin C, antioxidants such as flavonoids, and compounds such as monoterpenes ( 1 ).
What Is Juniper Berry?
The juniper tree is dioecious, which means that the male flowers and female flowers grow on separate plants. The male juniper plant produces cones that are smaller in size when compared to cones produced by the female juniper plant. These cones from the male plant are inedible as they are little sacks of pollen. On the other hand, the female cones are relatively larger in size and ripen into what you know as juniper berries. These cones, initially green, take about 18 months to ripen and turn into round and oval-shaped juniper berries that are dark blue in color and have a white-ish waxy coating on their skin.
How do juniper berries help your heart?
Juniper berries may improve your heart health by improving your HDL levels and reducing your LDL levels. HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein, which is also called good cholesterol. HDL absorbs excess cholesterol and moves it to your liver. Your liver processes it and flushes it out of your body. It is good to have higher levels of HDL cholesterol as it reduces your risk of heart diseases and stroke. LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein, also known as bad cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol are bad for you as they put you at a greater risk of getting a heart attack or a stroke ( 10 ).
How do juniper trees produce berries?
These cones from the male plant are inedible as they are little sacks of pollen. On the other hand, the female cones are relatively larger in size and ripen into what you know as juniper berries. These cones, initially green, take about 18 months to ripen and turn into round and oval-shaped juniper berries that are dark blue in color and have a white-ish waxy coating on their skin.
Why is Juniper Berry good for meat?
The high levels of antioxidants that are present in the juni per berry also make it useful in improving the quality and preserving meats. They improve the quality of meat by giving it a sharp and distinct flavor. ( 4 ).
Can juniper berries lower blood pressure?
Previously in this article, you have read that juniper berries may potentially be anti-diabetic and could be used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, another study found that consuming juniper berry extracts in large quanti ties and for a long period of time can lead to a severe lowering of blood pressure in people suffering from diabetes ( 4 ).
Is it safe to eat juniper berries?
For most adults, consuming juniper berries orally is relatively safe. However , when consumed in large quantities and over a long period of time, they may be unsafe and cause kidney problems. They may also cause irritation of the gut leading to gastrointestinal issues ( 4 ).
What are juniper berries used for?
During the Middle Ages, juniper berries were used to ward off disease and infection. Though part of this may have been plague-paranoia, juniper berries do have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral properties. Native Americans used juniper berries as a medicine to treat sore throats, colds, pain, fever, headaches, joint inflammation, dizziness, kidney stones, as well as to flavor wild game, cakes, and breads. The flavor of juniper berries is said to tone down the gaminess of venison, wild boar, waterfowl, and other game meats.
What is the flavor of juniper berries?
The flavor of juniper berries is said to tone down the gaminess of venison, wild boar, waterfowl, and other game meats. The dusty coating on juniper berries is actually a wild yeast, so juniper berries have also been used for centuries in beer-crafting and breads; many sourdough starter recipes call for juniper berries.
What is a juniper berry tonic?
This tonic, now known as gin, instantly became a huge hit throughout Europe as an inexpensive, domestic, buzz-producing alcohol beverage, rather than the medicinal tonic Sylvius had intended it to be. However, for centuries before Sylvius developed his juniper berry tonic, juniper berries had already been used as a strong flavoring for wine, mead, ...
What is juniper gin?
Junipers. By: Darcy Larum, Landscape Designer. Printer Friendly Version. Image by Magone. In the mid-17th century, a Dutch physician named Francis Sylvius created and marketed a diuretic tonic made from juniper berries. This tonic, now known as gin, instantly became a huge hit throughout Europe as an inexpensive, domestic, ...
What are the berries in Sauerkraut?
In Germany, authentic sauerbraten and sauerkraut are made with juniper berries. Juniper berries are not eaten in handfuls, straight off the bush like the sweet, juicy blueberries they resemble. Juniper berries have a strong, bitter, slightly peppery flavor and gritty texture.
Is Juniperus communis edible?
The common juniper, Juniperus communis, is the variety most often used to make gin, medicines, and food dishes, as it is considered safe for human consumption. Other edible juniper berries include: NOTE: The berries of Juniperus sabina and Juniperus oxycedrus are not safe for human consumption and should be avoided.
Can juniper berries cause diarrhea?
All juniper berries contain the powerful oil Thujone. This oil can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and kidney problems when ingested in large quantities. Certain varieties of juniper berry contain safe, low amounts of Thujone, while other varieties contain high levels and can make you very sick.
How long can you take juniper berries?
But it is LIKELY UNSAFE to take more than 10 grams of juniper berries or more than 100 mg of juniper oil, or to take juniper for more than 4 weeks. It can cause kidney problems, seizures, and other serious side effects. There isn't enough reliable information to know if taking juniper berries or oil in lower doses or for a shorter time is safe ...
What is Juniper Berry used for?
In foods, juniper berry is often used as a condiment. The extract, oil, and berry are used as flavoring ingredients in foods and beverages.
Why do people take Juniper?
Some people take juniper by mouth for problems with digestion, urinary tract infections ( UTIs ), kidney stones, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Where does Juniper grow?
Juniper is a tree that grows wild in some parts of Europe, North America, and Asia. There are many varieties of juniper, but Juniperus communis is the most common in North America. Don't confuse juniper berry oil with cade oil, which is distilled from juniper wood (Juniperus oxycedrus).
Does Juniper Berry affect blood pressure?
High blood pressure, low blood pressure: Juniper berry might affect blood pressure and could make blood pressure control more difficult .
Is Juniper safe for pregnant women?
Special Precautions and Warnings. Pregnancy and breast -feeding: It's UNSAFE to use juniper if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.
Can you breastfeed with juniper?
It's also best to avoid using juniper if you are breast-feeding. Not enough is known about how juniper might affect a nursing infant. Diabetes: Juniper berry might lower blood sugar. There is some concern that it might lower blood sugar too much in people with diabetes.
Who is the author of Juniper Berries?
The Toxicity of Juniper Berries. By Jessica Bruso. ABOUT THE AUTHOR. Jessica Bruso. Based in Massachusetts, Jessica Bruso has been writing since 2008. She holds a master of science degree in food policy and applied nutrition and a bachelor of arts degree in international relations, both from Tufts University. View Work.
Can juniper berries cause kidney damage?
These symptoms are usually limited to diarrhea. However, Drugs.com notes that large doses may also cause kidney damage, convulsions and DNA damage.
Is juniper a berry?
Juniper berries can be toxic in large amounts. Juniper berries are used in herbal medicine, and also flavor certain foods and gin. Although they are called berries, they are part of the cone and not a true berry. Most people can safely consume juniper berries in the amounts used in food, but some people should avoid consuming juniper in medicinal ...
Is Juniper a diuretic?
Although further research is needed to determine whether juniper is effective in treating any health condition, herbalists sometimes use it to stimulate menstruation, as a diuretic and to treat bladder infections. Traditionally, juniper berries were also used for treating urinary tract infections, heart failure and gonorrhea, according to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
Can you eat juniper berries while pregnant?
If you are pregnant, do not consume juniper berries as this could cause you to miscarry. Also, juniper berry can interact with lithium, so people using this medication should avoid consuming these berries.
