So what springs to mind when you hear the word Juniper? Those of you who appreciate gin, will know that juniper berries are used in gin making, but there is a lot more to Juniper except that.Juniper is evergreen tree or a bush with prickly needle leaves and has male and female species. Only on female trees can those famous juniper berries be found. The berries can also be used in cooking and medicine.Since ancient times juniper has been used by every culture for purifying and ritual cleansing,especially in temples. It was often burned to ward off evil spirits and the plague. Juniper has also been used to strengthen the body and maintain health.Juniper is antiseptic, anti-rheumatic, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and a lot more, in fact juniper is the only tree any part of which can be used: the berries – for gin and medicine; bark and needles – for healthy teas; the wood – for saunas and kitchenware; the list is endless.