Spice with antiseptic and expectorant properties, widely used in cooking and useful as a digestive and cough suppressant
Juniper (Juniperus) is a genus of plants belonging to the Cupressaceae family which includes the common juniper, but also many other species appreciated for the quality of the wood of the shrub (Juniperus virginiana) or as ornamental plants (Juniperus sabina and Juniperus rigido).
In Italy it is widespread in the Alps but also in the Apennines as far as Lazio and Sardinia.
Avoid the use of juniper in case of kidney failure, glomerulonephritis and proven hypersensitivity to one or more components.
Furthermore, the use of juniper is also contraindicated during pregnancy (as it can cause uterine contractions) and during breastfeeding.
Antiseptic for the skin.
Juniper purifies pores, reduces the formation of acne and eczema.
Juniper essential oil has astringent properties, useful for oily skin prone to acne, stimulates skin circulation and also helps fight cellulite.
Popular tradition has always attributed to juniper the power to keep witches and evil spirits away, which is why its branches were hung at the doors.
Juniper has many virtues: it is stomachic and chewing its berries facilitates digestion, it is a natural antiseptic for the urinary and respiratory tracts (useful for the treatment of kidney stones, to sedate coughs or as an expectorant) and has anti-rheumatic properties, in fact, juniper essential oil is often used for massages. Massaging the body with juniper oil helps to relax contracted muscles, prevent cramps and tone connective tissues.
In folk medicine, juniper is used internally to treat inflammation of the lower urinary tract, gout and arteriosclerosis; in addition to being used as a remedy to regularise the menstrual cycle and reduce pain associated with menstruation.
