Feet Naturally — natural steps, better health
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34
Herb

Juniper Berry

Draws out what has settled

Juniper Berry — still life

Juniper berries are the blue-black cones of the juniper shrub, best known for flavouring gin. Medicinally their reputation is as a detoxifier and diuretic — they help the body move fluid — and applied to feet that translates into real usefulness against swelling and puffiness.

They are also anti-inflammatory and mildly analgesic, which is why juniper is a traditional remedy for gout and arthritic joints. Gout in particular is a fluid-and-crystal problem in a joint, and juniper works on both the inflammation and the retention.

The berries are cheap in the spice aisle and crush easily with the back of a spoon.

How to use it

  1. 1

    Anti-swelling soak

    Two tablespoons of crushed juniper berries steeped in just-boiled water for fifteen minutes, strained into a basin. Twenty minutes with the feet in, then fifteen minutes with them raised.

  2. 2

    Gout compress

    A cloth soaked in the strong cooled infusion, held against the affected joint for fifteen minutes. Cool rather than warm for an acute gout attack.

  3. 3

    Massage blend

    Three drops of juniper oil in a tablespoon of carrier, worked upward from ankle to knee.

Before you use it

  • Avoid entirely during pregnancy — juniper is a uterine stimulant.
  • Avoid if you have kidney disease. Its diuretic action puts work on the kidneys.
  • Do not use continuously for more than a couple of weeks.
  • Not on broken skin.
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Feet Naturally

The original book this guide is built from — 30 common foot problems and the natural remedies for them.

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This is natural-care information for general guidance only — it is not medical advice. For severe, worsening, or diabetic foot problems, please see a doctor.