Juniper Oil is an essential oil which is extracted from Juniperus communis. It is commonly used in aromatherapy to help stimulate and strengthen the nerves and bolster the spirits in challenging situations, while helping to relieve urine retention. It is used for treating rheumatism, arthritis and gout, as well as cellulite, acne, dermatitis, blocked pores, psoriasis and weeping eczemas. Juniper Oil is also used as a diuretic, stomachic, and carminative in indigestion, flatulence, and diseases of the kidney and bladder. Nowadays, it is also used in some commercial disinfectants, since it makes a good household disinfectant. It is used in baths to rejuvenate the mind. It also is used to relieve fluid buildups by acting as a detoxifier. Herbalists often recommend Juniper Oil Oil for liver, kidney and bladder ailments.
Juniper Oil can act as a toner for oily skin. It also helps to protect against additional infection or inflammation. It has been known to help with joint pain and used in massage. Adding it to boiling water creates a vapor that may be inhaled to lessen bronchial congestion. Its possible anti-inflammatory effect may also help relieve inflammation in the lungs. Due to the same anti-inflammatory potential, it may be included in bath oils used in treating arthritis and other conditions. Juniper Oil contains a-pinene, camphene, b-pinene, sabinene, myrcene, a-phellandrene, a-terpinene, y-terpinene, 1,4-cineole, b-phellandrene, p-cymene, terpinen-4-ol, bornyl acetate, cayophyllene and trace amounts of limonene, camphor, linalool, linalyl acetate, borneol and nerol. It can help calm the nerves, relieves anxiety, nervous tension and mental exhaustion. It is helpful when the prostate gland is enlarged and is used to help with the inability to pass urine, in cases of cystitis and kidney stones. Although it is an excellent essential oil for many ailments it is suggested not to use during pregnancy due to it is known to induce labor.
References:
Drug Digest. http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/DVH/HerbsWho/0,3923,4124%7CJuniper,00.html
http://www.essentialoils.co.za/essential-oils/juniper-berry.htm
http://fl.essortment.com/juniperoil_rstr.htm
