A Druid sacred tree, Juniper is an evergreen tree or shrub with needle-like leaves in threes and berrylike cones that ripen to blue-black in their second or third year.
Primarily a diuretic, the berries help digestive problems, gastrointestinal inflammations, and rheumatism. The berries are taken as a tea (simmer two teaspoons per cup of water for ten minutes; take up to one cup four times a day), or taken as jam or syrup in water, mild, or herb tea. The dry berries can be chewed; three a day is sufficient.
CAUTION: Pregnant women and people with weak kidneys should not use juniper berry.

Parts Used: Berry and young twig

Magical Uses: Probably one of the earliest incenses used by Mediterranean Witches. Its berries were used with thyme in Druid and grove incenses for visions. Juniper grown by the door discourages thieves. The mature berries can be strung in the house to attract love. Men use the berries to increase potency. Burn Juniper as incense for: Exorcism; Protection; Healing; Love. The Essential oil is useful in protection, purification and healing blends.

Aromatherapy Uses Acne; Dermatitis; Eczema; Hair Loss; Hemorrhoids; Wounds; Tonic for Oily Complexions; Accumulation of Toxins; Arteriosclerosis; Cellulite; Gout; Obesity; Rheumatism; Colds; Flu; Infections; Anxiety; Nervous Tension; Stress Related Conditions. Key Qualities: Aphrodisiac; Purifying; Clearing; Depurative; Nerve Tonic; Reviving; Protective; Restorative.