Description :
Cedar Berry is a large, multi-trunked evergreen shrub or small tree that is native to the Southwestern United States. It covers much of the state of New Mexico. It grows even in poor soil and can reach heights of up to 25 feet. The leaves resemble flat needles. There are male and female cedar berry trees. They both have flowers, but only the female produces berries with a single seed, which are used medicinally. A paste made of crushed berries was sued by Native Americans externally as an antiseptic for minor cuts and abrasions. Internally, Cedar Berry was used to help reduce blood sugar and act as an antioxident.
History and Folklore:
Native Americans consider the Cedar as one of four sacred medicinal plants along with Sage, Tobacco and Sweet Grass. Cedar has been used for hundreds of years and is still used today in purification rituals and sweat lodges. They also made mats and cloth from the bark of the tree.
Cultivation and Harvest:
Harvest ripe, blue berries in the late fall before the first frost. Berries do not ripen after picking. Berries can be used raw or dried for later use in tinctures and teas.
Precautions:
Do not use if pregnant or nursing.
Traditional Herbal Actions:
Anti-inflammatory, Diaphoretic, Expectorant, Astringent, Anti-microbial, Diuretic, Anti-asthmatic, Anti-fungal
Other Names:
Oneseed Juniper, One-seed Juniper, Cherrystone Juniper, New Mexico Juniper, West Texas Juniper
Tincture Ingredients: Cedar Berry (Juniperus monosperma)
*These statements have not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
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