Juniper: know 5 benefits and learn how to use this spice

Many people know the juniper because of the gin and tonic drink, in which the berries are commonly used for the preparation. But did you know that this spice is also one of the components in the manufacture of gin? Next, we explain more about this plant, its benefits, contraindications and various recipes with the spice to try.

what is juniper

The juniper we know for consumption comes from a shrub of the Juniperus communis species. Of this plant, the most used and best known part is the berry, which is marketed as a spice. Juniper can be used as a seasoning, in drinks and also for medicinal purposes, always in small amounts. It has a spicy and slightly sweet flavor.

Despite being widely used and having several benefits, nutritionist Raquel Riccomini warns that the plant is toxic and, therefore, consumption should be moderate. “The infusion should be used with some care. People with nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys) or other kidney conditions should not use it, nor should pregnant and lactating women”, he warns.

5 benefits of juniper

When used in small amounts, as a seasoning or even in the preparation of tea, juniper can have several health benefits. Check out some of the benefits listed by Raquel below:

1. It is anti-inflammatory: juniper can be used to treat muscle, intestinal and throat inflammation.
2. It has digestive action: reduces stomach acidity and helps in the proper functioning of the stomach.
3. Acts as a tranquilizer: relieves stress and anxiety, and can help with insomnia, nervousness, depression and hyperactivity problems.
4. Relieves cramps: for its antispasmodic action, juniper helps to treat cramps of different origins.
5. It works as a diuretic: juniper stimulates the elimination of liquids, also preventing the accumulation of toxins in the body.

Despite the benefits, it is worth noting that juniper can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. Raquel warns that, for health treatments, the best way to consume is with the indication of a nutrition professional specialized in phytotherapy. “This recommendation is valid for juniper or any other medicinal plant”, emphasizes the nutritionist.

Juniper Recipes

Juniper has a spicy flavor that can be used to spice up drinks and dishes. Below, check out some recipes to experience the aromatic flavor of this spice.

Lemon gin and tonic with juniper

This is a simple gin and tonic recipe that takes gin, tonic water, lemon, ice and a touch of juniper for flavor. The preparation involves keeping the glass very cold and lightly mixing all the ingredients at the end, for a striking flavor.

Gin and tonic with orange and juniper

Despite the traditional gin and tonic being prepared with lemon, nothing prevents other citrus fruits from being used for a differentiated flavor. This is the case with this recipe, which brings the orange for a sweeter and smoother touch, along with the juniper. The preparation involves putting ice, gin, tonic water and orange juice, along with a slice of juniper.

Green Apple and Juniper Gin and Tonic

The sour flavor of the green apple pairs perfectly with the tangy, slightly sweet juniper in this recipe. To prepare, just add ice, thinly sliced ​​apple, juniper, gin and tonic water. Then just enjoy it.

Gin and tonic with cucumber, mint and juniper

For this recipe, it is recommended to lightly macerate the juniper, so the drink is very aromatic. Then, cut the cucumber into very thin strips, add a sprig of mint, a sprig of basil and, finally, add the gin and tonic.

pickles with juniper

For this recipe, cucumber, radish, asparagus, zucchini and onion are used, but the tip is also to use different vegetables that you consider interesting for the preparation. The special of the recipe is in the juniper and other spices, which bring a lot of flavor and aroma to this pickle.

Barbecue sauce with juniper

Industrialized barbecue sauce never again! This recipe is based on ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce and cachaça. The distinctive flavor is due to the spices: juniper, allspice, black pepper, coriander in grains and kummel.

Pork Knuckle with Juniper

Pork knee is a typical German dish. For this preparation, the meat is marinated in dark beer, cloves, juniper, bay leaves and black pepper. Then, cover with aluminum foil and bake in the oven. Potatoes are added and the pork knee is returned to the oven to pururucar.

Pork mignon with juniper

Pork tenderloin is prepared with a crust of spices and coffee. For the preparation, juniper, fresh herbs and coarse ground coffee are used. The meat is seasoned with salt and passed through the mixture, and then grilled in butter.

Shakshuka with juniper

Shakshuka is a typical Israeli dish, which is nothing more than egg in tomato sauce. In this recipe, an aromatic tomato sauce is prepared with carrots, peppers, juniper and other spices. Then, just break the eggs in the sauce and let it cook until you get the desired point.

Cow jammed with juniper

This swamped cow is made with beef tail, cassava, tomato, spices and the aromatic touch of juniper. For preparation, the meat and cassava are pre-cooked separately. Afterwards, the seasonings are added to the meat, cooking until it is very soft and finishing with the cassava.

Juniper is very versatile and it pays to have it in your home for preparing various recipes. However, remember to consume in moderation. Also know the benefits of annatto and continue to cherish your well-being!

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.