Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Juniper (Juniperus communis) has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, especially in Europe and North America, for supporting urinary tract health, including the treatment of bladder infections (cystitis). The berries were commonly used in folk remedies as a diuretic, believed to help flush out bacteria from the urinary tract by increasing urine flow. Historical texts and herbal guides, such as Culpeper's Herbal and The Complete Herbal, mention juniper's use for kidney and bladder complaints.

However, scientific evidence supporting juniper’s efficacy for bladder infections is limited. Some in vitro studies have indicated that juniper extracts possess mild antimicrobial properties, but these findings have not been robustly translated into clinical practice or validated in human trials specifically for urinary tract infections. The diuretic effect of juniper is generally attributed to volatile oils such as terpinen-4-ol, but this effect is relatively mild and not proven to be therapeutically significant for infections.

Additionally, safety concerns exist: juniper can be irritating to the kidneys and urinary tract, especially in large doses or with prolonged use, and is not recommended for those with kidney disease. In summary, juniper’s use for bladder infections is rooted in traditional and historical practices rather than strong scientific evidence.

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