Juniper Berry Powder (Juniperus communis)

Botanical name: (Juniperus coimmuns)

Also Known As: Seed Cone

Juniper berries have been used since Egyptian time to do many different things. Purify the air, an insect repellent, topical perfumes, and food flavoring. Diffusing juniper into the air will freshen and disinfect a stale room. You can also add juniper berries to culinary applications. They are the main flavor ingredient in gin. They’re are also used to flavor meats and sauces, and they make a wonderful addition to sauerkraut.

Juniper is a traditional treatment for digestive disorders. The berries contain bitter compounds that stimulate bile flow and aid digestion. They relieve upset stomach and other minor digestive disturbances. The berries function as a carminative, alleviating gas and intestinal cramping. Consuming juniper berries may impair absorption of iron, and those suffering from iron deficiency should use them with caution and consult a physician first.

Medicinal uses include urinary infections, lymph congestion, and indigestion, all being quelled when using this essential oil. Being an antimicrobial and antiseptic makes it safe to use on wounds. Research has also shown that juniper berry oil fights against bacteria and fungi.

The ancient Egyptians are said to have employed Juniper Berry for various medicial reasons, but the reason we include the powdered version here is because of it’s ritualistic use in Shamanic history.  It was often burned as an incense to repel dark spirits by the Egyptians.   It is also reportedly quite curious when smoked as it contains the alpha pinene, cadinene, camphene, terpenene, and sabinal.