Juniper Berries| Uses, Health Benefits and Side Effects.

Juniper Berries

Most Americans would associate Juniper berries with gin, but these wonder berries afford immense health benefits and strong flavor that would make you want to grab them immediately. Juniper berries are not berries but female seed cones of various species of Juniper; they are just unusually fleshy and scaly for cones and hence resemble berries. The various edible species of Juniper are - Juniperuscommunis (the most commonly used), Juniperus deppeanaJuniperus phoenicea; Juniperus Chinensis. They are used as a spice to give a bitter citrus kick, and they particularly flavor meat dishes. They are used in a lot of European cuisines, and it’s time Americans bring it to their homes.

Uses of Juniper Berries:

Juniper berries are used as a condiment. It’s a flavoring ingredient in gin. Its essential oil is used to treat an illness like bronchitis and to numb pain. They have been put to medicinal use by ancient Romans and Greek and a lot of European dishes incorporate them.

Health benefits of Juniper Berries:

Juniper berries are a wonder because of the numerous benefits they offer.

•    They act as antioxidants they contain bioflavonoid which helps in eliminating oxidative stress caused by free radicals thus having anti-aging effects and thus prevents a lot of diseases.

•    They have antiseptic effects as well. They are bactericidal as well as fungicidal. Studies even suggest that they could be part of the treatment of respiratory and skin infections. They have a bactericidal action against the notorious Staphylococcus aureus which is responsible for skin infections, pustules.

•    When applied in essential oil form, it helps to reduce rashes, eczema as they are antioxidants. They promote wound healing because of its anti-inflammatory action. It’s also being used to reduce the appearance of cellulite.  Some research indicates that it might be useful in the treatment of vitiligo.

•    They help in fighting against arthritis, rheumatism, and gout because they prevent accumulation of uric acid crystals.

•    Digestion is greatly improved with the usage of Juniper berries, even bloating can be reduced.

•    Because of its stimulant action, it can help get over fatigue, lethargy, depression, and tiredness.

•    It helps in reduction of cramps and might even be useful in the treatment of spasmodic cholera.

•    It helps in the purification and removal of toxins from the blood. It promotes circulation of blood to the skin thus keeping it oxygenated.

•    Some studies suggest that Juniper extracts reduce the plasma HDL levels that later lead to blocking of arteries, because of its antioxidant action it is good for the heart. It also helps in lowering the Blood Pressure.

Side effects of Juniper Berries:

While there is no doubt about the excellent benefits of Juniper berries, however, some precautions have to be kept in mind before using them

•    Don’t use it if you’re pregnant as it may cause uterine contractions. It’s best avoided during breastfeeding.

•    In high doses or long-term consumption may lead to seizures and kidney diseases.

•    Applying on skin may lead to irritation, burning, redness

Recipe of Juniper Berries:

You can experience all these wonderful benefits of Juniper berries with the help of this easy recipe.

Garlic Potatoes with Juniper Berries

Ingredients:

•    Extra Virgin oil – 3 tablespoons

•    Crushed Juniper berries – 2 tablespoons

•    Garlic Cloves -8

•    5 potatoes

Procedure: 

1.    Heat the oven to 350°F

2.    Pour the oil into a shallow baking dish

3.    Sprinkle Juniper berries in the oil and place the dish in the oven to slightly warm.

4.    Clean the garlic cloves by trimming the stem ends and rubbing off any feathery outer skin

5.    Now place the potato in a single layer in the dish and coat them with oil.

6.    Bake for 10 minutes and then roll potatoes in oil again.

7.    Change the setting to 300°F and bake uncovered for around 50 minutes till potatoes are tender.

8.    To coat the potatoes thoroughly with oil roll them once more.

9.    After transferring to a warm platter sprinkle with oregano, pepper, salt and lemon juice

10.    Serve hot with toast.

Conclusion:

The excellent benefits offered by Juniper berries are interesting the scientists a lot, and perhaps, even more, benefits can be uncovered. So the next time you’re buying spices or essential oil don’t forget to pick up Juniper berries and provide your family with all its amazing booms.