Juniper berries are usually harvested between September and December.
Juniper berries grow on the juniper shrub, a low-growing shrub with an aromatic scent of pine. Those with an acute sense of smell may also say that the plant and berries smell like gin and indeed, the alcoholic drink is made from the berries of the evergreen juniper plant. Juniper berry oil is collected through the process of steam distillation. Though the berries are used in a variety of culinary applications, the oil is generally not ingested except in some medicinal remedies.
Aromatherapy
Juniper berry oil is used in aromatherapy as an antiseptic, a diuretic and to detoxify the body, according to aromatherapist Patricia Davis. Davis especially recommends juniper oil to cleanse and purify the urinogenital tract and alleviate cystitis, retention of urine and enlarged prostate. It also can be warmed in an essential oil diffuser and inhaled as an emotional cleanser to rejuvenate and clear your mind after too much emotional stimulation.
Pet Care
Juniper berry oil is a common ingredient in natural flea repellents for cats and dogs. It may be helpful in treating mange and canine dermatitis and to repel or remove tics. Mixed with lard, juniper berry oil was a traditional veterinary remedy for open wounds, according the the website Botanical.
Skin Care
Juniper berry oil is used in skin care and cosmetic products including bath oil, eye shadow, soaps and hair products. Its natural astringent qualities make it useful as a treatment for acne and dermatitis. The oil has a piny scent that makes it especially suitable for men's skin care products.
Herbal Medicine
Modern herbalists combine juniper berry oil with herbs such as dandelion and parsley to increase urine flow, rid the body of excess fluids and filtate the kidneys. It has traditionally been used to treat flatulence, gastrointestinal infections, heartburn and bronchitis, according to information published by WebMD.
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