Common Juniper
Juniperus communis
Juniperus communis, commonly known as common juniper, is a widespread tree and shrub found across Europe, Asia, and North America. Traditionally, its uses are not well-documented; however, it has been noted for potential insecticidal or repellent effects on grazing animal pests. Scientific evidence suggests that extracts from Juniperus communis may have some beneficial effects, with one study indicating statistically significant improvements in dyspeptic symptoms and quality of life compared to a placebo. Genetic studies reveal high genetic diversity among common juniper populations across the central Balkans but do not provide specific evidence for medicinal use. Pinus sylvestris essential oil was found to reduce methane concentration by approximately 28.7% in vivo without significantly affecting other ruminal parameters, though this does not directly relate to Juniperus communis. Safety and drug interaction concerns are currently unrecorded, but caution should be exercised given the limited data available.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study identified several trees and shrubs, including Juniperus communis, with potential insecticidal or repellent effects on common grazing animal pests.
- Roleca® Juniper 100 mg demonstrated statistically significant improvements in dyspeptic symptoms and quality of life compared to placebo.
- Three chemotypes and three genetic pools were identified in common juniper populations across the central Balkans, showing high genetic diversity and some population differentiation.
- Pinus sylvestris essential oil reduced methane concentration by approximately 28.7% in vivo without significantly affecting other ruminal parameters.
Frequently asked questions
What is Common Juniper?
Common Juniper (Juniperus communis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Common Juniper?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Common Juniper; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: The study identified several trees and shrubs, including Juniperus communis, with potential insecticidal or repellent effects on common grazing animal pests.
How strong is the evidence for Common Juniper?
The strongest finding for Common Juniper carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Common Juniper safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Common Juniper in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Common Juniper interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Common Juniper in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Common Juniper?
Common Juniper is also known as: Можжевельник обыкновенный, Genévrier commun.
Is Common Juniper a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Efficacy and safety of Roleca® juniper 100 mg in the treatment of functional dyspepsia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Shrubs and trees as natural insect protection for grazing animals in Switzerland and the alpine region: A systematic review of in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Molecular and Phytochemical Variability of Common Juniper (Juniperus communis L.) in the Central Balkans Reveals Differentiation of Populations. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Chemical Characterization and Rumen-Modulating Effects of Pinus sylvestris Essential Oil: In Vitro and In Vivo Study. literature abstract metadata