Juniper berry oil in the treatment of gastrointestinal disturbances

Introduction Juniper (Juniperus communis L.) is well-known in the European tradition of phytotherapy due to its high content of 0.8–2.0% of bioactive essential oils (EOs), probably responsible for anti-inflammatory, diuretic and digestive effects. The quality of the EO is key for efficacy and safety. Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP) and GMP require complex validation of methods and stability data which might only be met by few manufacturers. Still, clinical use is scarce, maybe due to reports of different, especially renal toxicities, after ingestion of fresh berries.

Aim To update research on quality standards, clinical effectiveness, and nephrotoxicity as a basis for modern rational use.

Methods Retrieval of literature in common databanks. Comparison of the extracts used with quality standards of GACP.

Results Steam distillation of the berries is the best method for high efficiency and quality of EOs.

Amongst others, several gastrointestinal disorders are traditional indications. Correspondingly, anti-spasmodic, carminative, and anti-bacterial properties could be shown in vitro. Randomised clinical trials could only be retrieved for the anti-allergic indication and as part of a combination for gingival health.

At least three experiments with berry oil or leaves of different juniper species report nephroprotective effects in tacrolimus, thioacetamide and CCl₄ mouse or rat models.

Conclusion Preclinical data and traditional use of juniper suggest protective effects in the digestive tract. In animals and even at high doses, juniper’s traditionally assumed nephrotoxicity could be reverted to nephroprotection, when products by modern manufacturing standards were used. RCTs for gastrointestinal disorders should be performed.

Publication History

Article published online:
13 June 2022