Juniper: berries, sprigs, historic European fumigation and precautions
Common juniper is one of the most widespread shrubs in the world. History of fumigation in Europe and the Himalayas, use of sprigs and berries, and toxic species to avoid.
Key points
| Botanical name | Juniperus communis |
|---|---|
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Origin | Cool and temperate Northern Hemisphere: the largest range of any woody plant |
| Parts used | Leafy sprigs, “berries” (in fact fleshy cones), wood |
| Scent | Resinous, fresh, woody, slightly peppery |
| Etymology of gin | From Old French genièvre, “juniper” |
| Precautions | Pregnancy (berries); toxic look-alike species (savin); avoid treated wood |
What is juniper?
The common juniper (Juniperus communis) is a conifer of the Cupressaceae family, with a very variable form: a shrub spreading over high-altitude moors, a round bush on limestone hillsides, or a small tree reaching about ten metres. Its needles, stiff and prickly, grow in whorls of three. Its “berries” are in fact fleshy cones: they take about eighteen months to ripen, turn from green to blue-black and keep a waxy bloom. Plants are either male or female; some can live for more than two thousand years, and a specimen of over 1,600 years has been found in Lapland.
It is one of the woody plants with the largest range on the planet, from Europe to Asia and North America. Worldwide it is not threatened; however, in several parts of Europe, local populations are declining, through lack of regeneration or because of the closing of open habitats.
Ancient fumigation in Europe and elsewhere
Juniper is one of the plants long associated with fumigation in rural Europe. In Scotland, juniper smoke was part of the rites of Hogmanay, New Year's Eve, to “purify and protect” the house and livestock. In France and other countries, juniper sprigs were burned in sickrooms or public places, together with rosemary, at a time when bad smells were believed to spread disease. Today these practices are more symbolic than sanitary.
In the Himalayas, related juniper species are plants of offering and purification. In the Lahaul valley in India, people offer juniper leaves to their deities. These are local religious practices: we mention them out of respect, not to imitate them.
Decorative use and fumigation
- Dried sprigs: cut leafy twigs of 10 to 15 cm and dry them for a few weeks. They burn with a white, resinous, fragrant smoke, and crackle.
- Dried berries: they are sometimes placed on a charcoal disc or a heating plate, alone or mixed with other plants; they burn with a soft, peppery scent.
- Cooking: the berries flavour sauerkraut, game, beer and spirits. The word “gin” comes from the Old French genièvre (via Dutch jenever), itself from Latin juniperus.
For a fumigation gesture inspired by Europe, combine it with rosemary, which recalls the ancient practices mentioned above.
Not to be confused: toxic junipers and false cedars
| Plant | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Juniperus communis (common juniper) | The subject of this page; berries edible in small quantities |
| Juniperus sabina (savin) | Toxic: never burn it or prepare it as a tea; once used as an abortifacient, it is very dangerous |
| Juniperus oxycedrus (prickly juniper) | Cade oil is a medicinal product for skin use, not a perfume; do not burn it or use it at home |
| Juniperus virginiana (“red cedar”) | See Cedar |
Junipers look very much alike: if you are not sure of the species, do not burn anything and ask a botanist, a gardener or a local association.
Precautions
- Pregnancy: juniper berries and oil are traditionally advised against during pregnancy. Ask a professional before any internal use.
- Allergy: juniper pollen can cause allergies and cross-react with cypress pollen.
- Smoke: like any wood combustion, it emits fine particles. Use occasionally, in a well-ventilated room, away from children and animals. See Fire safety and rituals.
- Essential oil: see Essential oils: caution.
Harvesting with moderation
Juniper grows slowly and regenerates poorly in many places. Never cut a whole plant; take at most a few small twigs from a garden shrub that you know, or buy sprigs whose origin is stated. Do not pick in nature reserves or on protected limestone grasslands, where it shapes fragile habitats, and leave the berries for birds, which spread the seeds.
Frequently asked questions
Can juniper be burned?
Yes, in small dried sprigs or berries, in a heat-resistant container and a well-ventilated room. Avoid other juniper species until you have identified them.
Are juniper “berries” really berries?
No, they are fleshy cones whose scales have fused. They are called berries out of habit.
Is juniper protected?
Common juniper is not threatened worldwide, but some local populations are declining. Do not pick it in protected areas.
Are there dangerous junipers?
Yes: savin (Juniperus sabina) is toxic. Do not burn a plant you cannot identify.
Why is gin called that?
From Old French genièvre, from Latin juniperus, via Dutch jenever. Juniper flavours this drink.
Also read
The meanings mentioned belong to tradition and symbolism. They are neither promises of results nor medical advice. Back to Herbs, waxes and accessories.