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Gin is fast becoming one of the most popular alcoholic drinks, with independent craft distilleries producing some incredible experimental new flavours and botanical combinations. It has become so popular that the idea of a traditional G&T has been revolutionised in the last few years, with a range of artisanal tonic waters to complement any gin of your choice.
Most of us are familiar with the unique taste of gin - I’m partial to it myself - but what is it that gives gin its distinctive flavour? This comes from the juniper berries used in the distillation process. Juniper is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 10 metres tall (30 feet) in the wild and has blueish green needle-like leaves, small yellow flowers and blueish black fruit (berries). Juniperberry essential oil is commonly used in Aromatherapy and has a fresh and slightly woody aroma – it is quite hard to describe but, once smelled, it is distinctive.
Juniperberry's Therapeutic Properties
This wonderful essential oil is often used to help stimulate the nerves, release tight and tense muscles and help reduce anxiety and stress. It is also a natural diuretic and can help to relieve water retention and reduce cellulite. It is also used for helping to relieve joint pain associated with rheumatic conditions, arthritis and gout.
Juniperberry oil is antiseptic, anti-rheumatic, antispasmodic (reduces muscle spasms), diuretic (increases production of urine), rubefacient (produces reddening of the skin), stimulating, stomachic (promotes appetite and aids digestion), sudorific (encourages sweating), vulnerary (wound healing) and is its own general medicinal tonic.
How To Use Juniperberry Essential Oil
- For burners and vaporizers, add a few drops to an oil burner and dilute with water.
- For massage oil and compresses, dilute 4 drops in 10ml of carrier oils such as grapeseed, sunflower or almond oil.
- For lotions and creams – add a few drops to an unscented cream or lotion, mixing well
Blending With Other Essential Oils
Juniperberry blends well with other woody oils including Cedarwood, Cypress and Vetiver but also blends well with floral oils such as Geranium, Lavender and Bergamot and citrus oils like Lime and Grapefruit.
Precautions for use
Juniperberry can stimulate the uterine muscles and so it should not be used during pregnancy and, due to its diuretic properties, it should be avoided by people with kidney conditions. As with all essential oils, it is advisable to use in moderation. Essential oils should always be diluted in a carrier oil for skin application or diluted in water for vapourising. Essential oils should not be used internally.
Further Information
Copyright © Andrea Doran, Flourish and Contributors - Original Date of Publication May 2018 | For personal use and information only
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