Juniper

Juniper or Juniperus Communis is an evergreen conifer which can grow up to ten meters high. It is found in Europe, North America and North Asia. It prefers acidic soil. The leaves are needles which are light green underneath and dark green on top. Juniper plants are either male or female and each yields a different kind of flower. The berries that we know are actually cones but look more like berries than typical cones because they are more fleshy. The female juniper flowers mature into berries over approximately two to three years and the color is a dark purpley blue, almost black when they are ripe.

Juniper is handy to use for magick and is associated with the elements of fire and the Sun with masculine properties. It can be used for spells of protection, purification and healing. It is also used in love spells and particularly for increasing male potency. Juniper is an effective herb to use to break hexes and curses. You can get juniper as a herb, an oil or incense. It can be used for magick to protect you and your home in various ways. For example sprigs of juniper could be hung in the doorway to protect your home against evil and to prevent theft. Juniper could also be carried on your person in an amulet to protect you from harm and guard against illness or accidents.

You are probably familiar with juniper berries being used in gin or even pate or game dishes for flavoring but you may not be aware that juniper can be used for a very wide variety of health issues. Juniper is an antiseptic, astringent, antiviral and diuretic. It can assist with acne, skin blemishes, wounds, migraines, colds, ‘flu, coughs, bronchitis, indigestion, flatulence, heart burn, arthritis, rheumatism, gout, muscular aches and urinary tract infections. Juniper can cause muscle contractions so it is not advised to use if you are pregnant. It is also believed to lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels and so may have a use for diabetes. It is advisable to contact a health professional before using to ensure that you use it safely and correctly.

Juniper is available as a tincture and an oil and as a tea.

Jill Graham is a professional psychic tarot reader, energy healer and life coach assisting you to move you past blocks and obstacles to creating and living the life you truly desire. Available wherever you are in the world via skype, email, or phone. www.healinglieswithin.com (10% introductory discount for Ravenhawks readers)