Juniper Berries are actually the small cones of this evergreen, shrub-like conifer tree that hails from the Cypress family. The aromatic properties of all parts of Juniper trees have been used traditionally for cleansing and incense by many cultures, from the ancient Romans and Medieval Europeans using in temples or strewn on floors,[2] to the Chinese and Native Americans burning in ceremony. 

Many inferior Juniper Berry oils are produced from the more economical and accessible fermented berries leftover from making gin, however, these offer a harsher pinene-like aroma with little or no balsamic sweetness. Our producer in Nepal knows that fresh Juniper Berries at the peak of ripeness produce an exquisite essential oil with the most desirable aroma and constituent profile. About 100 kilos of Juniper Berries harvested in September, October, and November yield 1 kilo of essential oil.[1] In addition, by collecting the leaves and twigs for distillation earlier in the year, then waiting to harvest the berries later when perfectly ripe, harvesters and their families benefit from the income of two harvests rather than one.

The uplifting and centering aroma of Juniper Berry is excellent when diffused before meditation or added to air-refreshing room sprays, cleansing baths, saunas, or chest rubs. In invigorating massage oils, it lends qualities of clean freshness and warmth.[1] Its astringent properties make it ideal in skincare preparations for oily, dull, or congested skin, after-shaves, deodorants, leg lotions, and foot baths. Natural perfumers make use of Juniper Berry to bring woody-sweet warmth and balsamic freshness to their creations, especially with Labdanum, Frankincense or Sandalwood.