Juniper oil – a magical extract with a modern twist

Widely used by ancient civilisations and still successfully utilised today — juniper oil. Once considered magical, it formed part of traditional rituals and was also indispensable in treating many common ailments. The benefits derived from its composition have remained unchanged over the years, but much more is now known about the properties of juniper oil. Discover effective ways to use the extract in your daily life.

Juniper oil – extraction

Juniper essential oil is extracted from the common juniper tree (Juniperus communisL.). The plant belongs to the cypress family (Cupressaceae), which comprises up to 67 different species. It probably originates from Bulgaria, but is now widely found across the northern hemisphere, in a variety of climatic conditions.

The juniper produces fruit – dark blue berries – which contain around 87 different chemical compounds and are also a source of valuable essential oil. The extract is obtained using several methods, though steam distillation is most commonly used, as this preserves the greatest number of medicinal properties.

Juniper essential oil – properties

It is clear that the properties of juniper oil are determined by its composition. However, this composition is variable and depends on many factors, such as the climate, the soil in which the raw material ripens, and the speed of the fruit crushing process. The largest proportion consists of monoterpenes (60%–80%) and sesquiterpenes (around 10%). What does this mean?

The oil has many health-promoting properties. It has anti-inflammatory effects and provides local warmth. Often used for musculoskeletal conditions, it aids in the treatment of arthritic and rheumatic ailments, alleviating unpleasant pain and minor swelling.

Juniper extract lowers blood pressure and, as an irritant, acts as a spasmolytic (relaxing smooth muscles). It can reduce pain associated with disorders of the digestive and urinary systems.

Juniper essential oil exhibits antimicrobial activity – it combats skin irritation, rashes and other skin conditions. Due to its antiseptic properties, it is used to treat acne, protects wounds from infection and can accelerate the healing process.

Juniper essential oil helps to remove chemicals (toxins) from the body and supports its natural functions.

Juniper oil – how to use it?

Juniper oil is an excellent addition to any first-aid kit – that much is well known. However, not everyone realises that it is also effective in cosmetics. Although it is most commonly used on a large scale as a safe fragrance, it is also worth making the most of the extract’s properties, particularly when it comes to skin and hair care.

Juniper essential oil reduces the appearance of discolouration, cuts down on excess sebum and eliminates the bacteria responsible for inflammation. Dermatologists recommend the product for oily, combination and acne-prone skin. The easiest way is to add a few drops to your cream, but you can also make an effective toner:

• 100 ml distilled water + 10 drops of juniper essential oil

You can replace the water with chamomile infusion, but it’s worth adjusting the proportions (e.g. 50 ml of liquid + 5 drops of oil), as the mixture has a much shorter shelf life (around 5 days).

Juniper oil for hair

Juniper oil has antiseptic properties – it will cleanse the scalp, remove dead skin cells and help combat dandruff. Additionally, it will naturally soften the hair and nourish a dry scalp. The extract promotes the health of the hair follicles and, in the long term, protects against hair loss and visibly increases the volume of your hair. The easiest way is to add a few drops of the product to your shampoo or conditioner (it blends very well with herbal products).

For faster and more impressive results, it’s worth using a rinse at least once a week:

• 1 litre of boiled water + 8 drops of juniper essential oil + 4 tablespoons of milk

How to use it? Mix all the ingredients together and rinse your hair thoroughly after washing.

Juniper oil for cellulite

Juniper oil is often used in specialised anti-cellulite preparations. It tightens the skin, promotes blood and lymph circulation, and aids tissue regeneration. When used during a massage, the extract improves circulation, tones the muscles and firms the skin, as well as reducing the appearance of stretch marks and preventing new ones from forming.

Juniper oil can be used on its own:

• 5 drops of juniper essential oil + 2 tablespoons of base oil (e.g. sunflower oil)

...or as part of an effective anti-cellulite formula for massage or baths:

• 5 drops of juniper essential oil +3drops of lavender+ 2 drops of argan oil + 4 tablespoons of carrier oil (e.g. almond oil)

Juniper oil – aromatherapy

Juniper oil has a very complex scent – forest-like, woody, spicy and earthy, yet fresh with a subtle fruity note. It is precisely this aroma that can be detected in the popular alcoholic drink – gin. Surprising?

Juniper essential oil promotes a sense of well-being, reduces stress, tension and headaches, enhances concentration and eliminates signs of fatigue. It will give you energy during the day and help you wind down before bed.

Juniper essential oil for inhalation

Juniper essential oil is recommended during the treatment of respiratory tract infections; it clears the sinuses and soothes an irritated throat. It can be used as a quick remedy – simply soak a cotton pad in the oil, place it near your nose and inhale.

Inhalation, however, is much more effective. It not only combats the symptoms but also tackles the source of the problem – namely, viruses and other airborne microorganisms. How do you prepare the treatment? Add 6–10 drops of juniper essential oil to a bowl of hot water.

In the event of severe breathing difficulties, you can also try this tried-and-tested blend of essential oils:

• 2 drops of juniper essential oil +2drops of geranium+2drops of lavender+2drops of rosemary

Juniper essential oil – which oils to blend it with?

Juniper essential oil is an excellent choice for anyone who enjoys complex, nuanced scents. Whilst it can be used on its own, it also works well as part of interesting blends. All citrus scents (such asbergamot,lemongrassorlemon) pair perfectly with juniper oil, though they are not the only options. Which oils are worth trying?

• cedarwood
• lavender
• sage
• cypress
• patchouli
• rosemary
• pine

Achieving the perfect fragrance harmony is a very personal matter. However, there are many versatile combinations that delight with their aroma and, at the same time, exhibit a synergistic effect (which means their beneficial properties are enhanced). How should you blend juniper essential oil?

• for a good night’s sleep: 3 drops of juniper essential oil +3drops of lavender+3drops of sandalwood essential oil

• for concentration: 4 drops of juniper essential oil +2drops of rosemary+2drops of lemon

• for a positive mood and to reduce stress: 3 drops of juniper essential oil +3drops of orange+2drops of petitgrain

• to refresh the mind: 4 drops of juniper essential oil +2drops of grapefruit+2drops of bergamot+1drop of ylang-ylang

Juniper essential oil for everyday use

Juniper oil is one of those products that’s worth always having to hand. Its aroma is delicate and subtle, yet it packs a powerful punch. It restores your energy during periods of intense activity and stress. To enjoy the benefits of the extract, simply apply a few drops to a handkerchief, hold it to your nose and breathe deeply. A mood boost is guaranteed.

Juniper essential oil is also useful around the home – for cleaning surfaces, as an air freshener or as a mould-fighting spray. It’s worth knowing about this use, as mould is toxic and can have a very negative impact on health (causing asthma, allergies, infections, concentration problems or chronic headaches). Many products available in shops contain strong but harmful ingredients. These can easily be replaced with the right blend of essential oils.

Mix the following ingredients in a spray bottle:

• 500 ml water + 2 teaspoons juniper essential oil +2teaspoons tea tree essential oil

Spray the mould-affected areas thoroughly with the mixture, leave for 48 hours, then wash off with soap and water and dry with a paper towel. Simple? Naturally.

It was once believed that juniper oil wards off evil spirits. Whilst today we can take such superstitions with a pinch of salt, its properties are certainly worth taking seriously. Its versatile health and cosmetic uses mean that juniper oil can replace many of the synthetic products we use every day. And since it’s easy and effective, eco-friendly and in harmony with nature, the choice is surely a simple one.

‘Evaluation of the activity of juniper oil against yeast-like fungi’– A. Kędzia, E. Hołderna-Kędzia, Institute of Natural Fibres and Medicinal Plants, Poznań, Gdańsk Medical University

“Antibacterial and Antifungal Activity of Juniper Berry Oil and its Selected Components”– N. Filipowicz, M. Kamiński, J. Kurlenda, M. Asztemborska, J. R. Ochocka, Department of Biology and Pharmaceutical Botany, Medical University of Gdańsk, Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of the Medical University of Gdańsk and the University of Gdańsk, Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw

"Kinetics of distillation of essential oil from comminuted ripe juniper (Juniperus communis L.) berries"– V. Veljković, scientific journal *Biochemical Engineering Journal*

"Antimicrobial activity of juniper berry essential oil (Juniperus communis L., Cupressaceae)"– S. Pepeljnjak, I. Kosalec, Z. Kalodera, N. Blažević, Department of Microbiology, Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Zagreb

"Herbal Medicine – Expanded Commission E Monographs"– M. Blumenthal, A. Goldberg, J. Brinckmann, American Botanical Council

"Inhibition of elastase activity by essential oil in vitro"– M. Mori, N. Ikeda, Y. Kato, M. Minamino, K. Watabe, the medical journal *Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology*