1. Can Relieve Bloating
Juniper berries have both antibacterial and antifungal properties. One of the most popular homeopathic uses for juniper berries is using them to prevent or naturally remedy urinary tract infections and bladder infections.The berries are also a natural diuretic, which helps the body flush out excess fluids from the bladder and urethra. This has the potential to reduce bloating. This is especially effective when combined with other antibacterial and diuretic foods, including cranberries, fennel and dandelion.
2. May Help Heal and Protect Skin
With natural antibacterial abilities, juniper berry essential oil is one of the most popular natural remedies for fighting skin irritations (like rash or eczema). Due to its antiseptic abilities, it can serve as a home remedy for acne and some people also like to use juniper oil for hair and scalp concerns like dandruff.Use 1 to 2 drops mixed with a carrier oil as a gentle astringent or moisturizer after washing your face. You can also add some to your shower to help treat blemishes and foot odors and fungus. For hair and scalp, you can add a few drops to your shampoo and/or conditioner.
3. Boosts Digestion
Juniper can help stimulate digestive enzymes and make it easier to break down and absorb protein, fats and nutrients from foods. This is because it is a “bitter.” Bitters are herbs that begin the digestive process. However, this has not been tested thoroughly on humans. But it has proven to hold true in at least one animal study, in which cows had significantly improved digestion when given garlic and juniper berry essential oils. Some people talk about juniper berry essential oil for weight loss, but this benefit also hasn’t been backed by any solid human studies.For a natural digestive aid or liver cleanse, you can try taking juniper oil as a dietary supplement by adding 1 to 2 drops to a smoothie or water (but you may want to consult with your health care provider first)
4. Relaxant and Sleep Aid
The smell of juniper berries offers emotional support and reduce physical and emotional signs of stress. Considered in folklore as a natural anxiety remedy, some sources claim it’s one of the most effective essential oils for dealing with inner trauma and pain because juniper may have positive effects on relaxation responses in the brain when inhaled.One study tested an essential oil fragrance that combined juniper berry essential oil with sandalwood, rose and orris. Examining its effect on insomniacs who were taking medication for their condition, researchers found that 26 of the 29 subjects were able to reduce their drug dosage when using the essential oil fragrance at night. Twelve subjects were able to eliminate medications altogether.For a natural sleep aid, use juniper berry essential oil at home by diffusing it throughout your bedroom, dabbing some on your wrists (diluted with a carrier oil) or clothes for an uplifting perfume, or adding several drops to your laundry detergent mix so the smell lingers on your clothes and linens. You can also add a few drops directly to a bath or my homemade healing bath salts recipe for a relaxing, healing soak.
5. Heartburn and Acid Reflex Relief
Another traditional use of juniper berry essential oil is to treat heartburn and acid reflux. To soothe indigestion symptoms like acid reflux, massage 1 to 2 drops of juniper berry oil blended with coconut oil over the entire stomach, abdomen and chest, or consider taking it internally. However, consult with your natural health care provider before ingesting it!6. Natural AntisepticWhether you’re looking for a better household cleaner or a natural antiseptic for skin or respiratory infections, juniper berry essential oil may be one answer. Its antimicrobial properties help to kill bacteria and provide what could be a potent treatment for simple infections.To help prevent or reduce bacterial strains from spreading within your home, use juniper berry oil on kitchen and bathroom surfaces or appliances. When diffused indoors, it absorbs odors from your home while also purifying the air your family breathes. Run several drops through your washing machine or dishwasher, and replace commercial cleaning products — which usually contain multiple harsh chemicals — with natural antibacterial juniper oil mixed with water.
