As we slowly transition from winter to spring in Montana, I am finding my walks in the woods to be wholly uplifting again. No more wading through the snow, it is great to feel the ground under my feet (but don’t take me wrong – I love winter too!). The birds are singing, the soil is awakening, and I can’t wait to sit down and just be with the plants.
Inspired by spring’s revival, I have many ideas germinating in my head, and I am eager to start something completely new.
So, I will take one special plant every month, make a couple (or three) herbal creations from it (facial cream, oil, tincture, bath salt, salve, …), and describe its medicinal application, here. I hope you will follow this journey, and find something that resonates with your own renewal this season.
This month, we are working on three creations featuring: JUNIPER
(that I collected during our road trip in Colorado, and here in Montana).
First, I’m infusing juniper berries and needles with sage and sweet grass in organic oil to create an uplifting lubricant that stimulates the circulatory system. Other benefits include illuminating the skin, promoting a positive mindset, and supporting the body in detox and balance.
Another portion of the berries will be soaked in organic cane alcohol to create our juniper bitter, a more natural remedy taken immediately before meals in order to aid digestion, ease stomach cramps, clear away indigestion, and expel gas (note: the bitter can also be used after meals if symptoms persist).
Our third invention is a toxin puller bath fizz with calendula and sage (this restorative combination detoxifies body and purifies the mind).
These three concoctions made with detoxifying juniper will be ready at the end of April.
Juniper (Juniperus communis)
- antibacterial
- anti-inflammatory
- antimicrobial
- analgesic (reduces pain)
- carminative (relaxes stomach, supports digestion and helps with bloating and gas in the digestive tract)
- disinfectant (kills microorganisms that carry disease)
- stimulant (vitalizes the physiological functions of the body)
- urinary antiseptic
- anti-rheumatic (reduces the pain and inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis)
Juniper’s spicy and warming aromatic qualities aid digestion, expel gas, ease stomach cramps and indigestion, and stimulate the appetite. In laboratory testing, juniper has been shown to lower blood-sugar levels.
Juniper needles have long been used in traditional saunas because of their antimicrobial action.
The juniper berry is considered a purifier of the blood and an overall system cleanser.
A decoction of the needles and branches can be used as a wash for a dry, dandruff-prone scalp, or as a facial astringent to help improve acne.
Topically, juniper is highly antiseptic and is astringent for the skin. It’s also helpful for treating eczema, wounds, and dermatitis. The berries have great skin detoxifying properties and help clarify acne-prone skin.
Using essential oil from juniper in aromatherapy diffuser helps fight bacteria and can ease respiratory problems.
Energetically, the juniper oil strengthens and uplifts the spirit during times of low energy, anxiety, and weakness, and helps clear emotional overload; essentially, it clears and cleanses the mind. ♡
Cautions: Juniper berries can be irritating to the kidneys and should be avoided by those who have kidney disease or problems. Do not use if you are pregnant!
Finally, the juniper berries are very sweet after the winter, making them a great trail nibbler!
