Kέδρος (Άρκευθος, Γιουνίπερος, Cedrus)

The juniper tree, Juniperus communis, is an evergreen shrub that grows in many parts of the world, including North America, Europe and Asia. It produces seed cones commonly known as juniper berries. Although the coloring of the berries varies, most are deep blue. Their aroma is often described as woody or spicy. They have an astringent, piney taste and are usually used in small quantities as a spice or flavoring agent.

These small berries have been used for culinary and medicinal purposes since ancient times, and current research shows that they may offer various health benefits. Like most other berries, they are a good source of vitamin C, providing 10% of the daily value (DV) of this water-soluble nutrient in a 28-gram serving. Vitamin C is essential for immune system health, collagen synthesis and blood vessel function. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals.

Berries also provide many plant compounds, including flavonoid antioxidants, volatile oils and coumarins, which are chemical compounds with various protective properties.

Juniper berries are rich in essential oils and flavonoids that act as powerful antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation. Juniper berry extract can improve high blood sugar levels. Juniper berries can promote heart health by improving HDL (good) cholesterol levels and lowering high triglyceride levels, as well as LDL (bad) and total cholesterol. Studies show that juniper berries have strong antibacterial and antifungal properties. Unlike other berries, juniper berries are usually only used in small amounts to flavor foods – they are not eaten in large portions. They have an astringent, piney flavor, which makes them a popular ingredient for seasoning recipes and infusing drinks. For example, juniper berries are used to add flavor to marinades and other spice mixes and give gin its distinctive taste.

*The information given on our website is purely informative and does not replace the advice of your treating physician. Bean & Herb does not advocate self-medication. Bean & Herb does not support την self-healing.