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Juniper
has been long been recognized as an extraordinary healing herb.
A papyrus found in Egypt, dating to 1550 B.C., referred to juniper
as a remedy to treat tapeworms. In Ayurvedic medicine, juniper is
believed to purify both the physical body and the the aura. Juniper
berries, blue when they are ripe, act on the urinary, respiratory,
nervous and digestive systems. They are particularly supportive
of the genitourinary system, working effectively to heal infections
of the urinary tract and bladder, and are extremely potent as a
diuretic. Because they reduce congestion, they are useful in treating
colds and asthma. Juniper berries also help increase the flow of
digestive juices, improving digestion, eliminating gas, and relieving
stomach cramps. In addition, their anti-inflammatory properties
are effective in relieving pain and inflammation related to rheumatism
and arthritis. Juniper berries should not be taken for more than
six weeks at a time, as they may irritate the kidneys over a long
term. They should be avoided by pregnant women and by people who
suffer from chronic kidney disease. |