Juniper
Juniperus communis
CUPRESSACEAE
Zuni people used juniper berries to relieve the pain of childbirth. Juniper berry infusion is a highly disinfectant healing wash for cuts and wounds. Fungicidal properties make it useful in treating athlete's foot and yeast overgrowths. Juniper is anti-inflammatory and so relieves the swelling of arthritic and rheumatic joints. Astringent juniper releases bound up uric acid, helping relieve urinary problems and gout. Juniper is also useful for relief of flatulence and stomach upset. Juniper berries flavor gin and are excellent added to wild game.
Many First Nation people used juniper berries to treat colds, coughs, urinary problems and to build blood. Cree, Malecite, Micmac and Maritime First Nations used them to heal wounds and ulcers. European wise women used juniper as a strewing herb; today it is used in Europe to treat arteriosclerosis.
A gemmotherapy elixir of juniper leaf buds and young spring growth acts as a liver and kidney tonic, helping to nourish and regenerate these organs. It is used when the liver or kidneys are overworked or overloaded whether the cause is dietary or pharmaceutical. It’s considered to be a powerful diuretic and anti-inflammatory. Juniper is protective when grown around the house or burned as a smudge, it drives away negativity and is purifying.