Scientific Name: Juniperus communis
Ancient Indian civilizations used the juniper berry oil for incense. Many futile attempts have been made in the market place to replicate the benefit of wild crafted juniper berry essential oil by using other parts of this coniferous tree. However, only the juniper berry can perform that function safely and effectively without any risk of added toxicity.
Many companies cut their juniper berry oil with harmful adulterants including pinene, camphene, myrcene, turpentine oil fractions, and wood and twig extracted oil. Lesser quality producers commonly ferment this particular essential oil rather than use the more costly method of steam distillation. Using only the juniper berries and steam distillation extraction process provides the highest concentration of healthful constituents in this oil.
Juniper berry essential oil (Juniperus communis) can be sourced Wild Crafted from France or Yugoslavia. In the United States, juniper berry is generally regarded as safe (GRAS) by the FDA.
Precautions
Always test a small amount of any essential oil first for sensitivity or allergic reaction. Do NOT use during pregnancy. May be sensitizing or “hot” to sensitive skin (dilute with carrier oil).
Note: This information is for educational purposes only, and it is not guaranteed to be complete.
