JUNIPER BERRIES, whole

Botanical Name: Juniperus communis
Production: Juniper berries (which are not technically berries, but actually juicy, seed cones), grow on coniferous shrubs throughout the Northern hemisphere and are harvested in early autumn.
Qualities: Herbal use of juniper berries include stress relief, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties and digestive support. Juniper berry essential oil is said to have a relaxing effect on the brain and is often used as a sleep aid. Juniper berries are often combined with birch leaf, horsetail, or parsley seed in herbal diuretic teas.
Common Use: Juniper berries may be taken as a tea, extract, capsule, or may be sprinkled on food, in ferments such as sauerkraut, or added to juices and smoothies. They are often used in recipes as a bitter, citrus-like spice and are perhaps best known for giving gin its distinctive flavor.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place in a sealed container.
Safety: Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner. Not for use in persons with hypertension, liver disorders, edema, severe kidney insufficiency, low blood potassium, or heart disease.
Not for use exceeding six weeks in succession.
*NOTE: because of inter-governmental bureaucracy, when an organic product with EU organic certification is not imported directly into the USA (imported into Canada first) it is not allowed to be called "organic" even though the USA and the EU have an "equivalency agreement" for organic standards.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the CFIA or FDA. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This product has been packaged in the same facility as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, and other potential allergens.