Lower blood sugar levels and improve digestion with juniper berries

Thursday, April 07, 2011 by: Shona Botes
Tags: juniper berries, blood sugar, health news

(NewsTarget) Juniper trees are found mainly in Asia, North Africa, Europe and North America. Mostly known for their flavouring agents that are used in gin, these berries or seeds have a great deal of health benefits as well. They are known to aid digestion, lower blood sugar levels and even promote and maintain kidney health.

Bitter compounds found in the berries help to stimulate the flow of bile and improve digestion. They can assist with relieving intestinal cramping and bloating and are also useful for treating other forms of stomach upsets. The juice from these berries can be taken as a digestive tonic. Not only does the juice possess diuretic properties, but it also acts as a stimulant, ensuring that the organs are able to function optimally.

Applying crushed juniper berries to wounds can help them to heal faster, as they have powerful antiseptic properties. The berries and leaves can be used to make tea which can also be used to pour onto sore and stiff joints to relieve pain. This makes it an excellent remedy for those suffering from arthritis, gout and rheumatism. These berries have wonderful anti-inflammatory properties. Juniper oil can be used as an aromatherapy oil to massage sore and aching muscles and joints.

The berries and their juice have also been used to treat conditions like athlete's foot, dandruff, acne, psoriasis, neuralgia, oedema, asthma, colds and sinusitis.

These powerful berries assist with cleansing the urinary tract, helping to soothe and even prevent conditions like cystitis and bladder infections. They are also able to assist with menstrual conditions and have been known to lower blood sugar levels, making them an excellent choice for those suffering from diabetes. Juniper berries also have anti-mucous properties and are known to be astringent, which makes them able to assist with strengthening gums and even curing toothache.

People suffering from an iron deficiency should consume juniper berries or juice with caution, as they are able to interfere with the absorption of iron. Pregnant women and those suffering from kidney disease should avoid the use of juniper berries, as safety during pregnancy has not yet been established.

Sources:

http://www.diethealthclub.com/health-food/ju...
http://www.dietihub.com/health-benefits-of-j...
http://www.livestrong.com/article/357364-jun...

About the author

Shona Botes blogs about green living, budgeting, saving money, natural remedies and humour (which is often combined with the abovementioned topics). Her spare time is spent tending to her organic herb garden, cycling and engaging in photography.
Her blog may be viewed here
Some of her photography work may be viewed here
Other articles written by her may be viewed here