Evidence supporting the use of: Juniper berries
For the health condition: Urinary Tract Infections

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Synopsis

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

Juniper berries (Juniperus communis) have a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, including as a remedy for urinary tract conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). Historically, juniper berries were believed to act as a diuretic ("water pill") and were thus used to "flush out" the urinary tract, which practitioners thought might help eliminate pathogens causing infections. Various traditional systems, including European folk medicine, have utilized juniper berries for urinary complaints, and they are sometimes included in herbal blends for bladder and kidney health.

From a scientific perspective, the evidence supporting the use of juniper berries specifically for treating or preventing UTIs is limited and generally of low quality. Some laboratory (in vitro) studies suggest juniper extracts possess mild antimicrobial properties, possibly due to their volatile oils such as terpinen-4-ol and other terpenes. However, these effects have not been robustly demonstrated in human clinical trials, and there is no high-quality evidence showing juniper berries are effective for treating UTIs in humans. Moreover, excessive use of juniper can irritate the kidneys or urinary tract, and it is not recommended for individuals with kidney disorders. In summary, while the traditional use is well-documented, scientific validation is weak, and juniper berries should not replace evidence-based treatments for UTIs.

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