My neighbour dropped in some Juniper berries he collected down by the river. What a wonderful gift and perfect timing too for making a warming cold and flu drink as the days get colder. Traditionally used as a diuretic and carminative, it is the volatile oils that act on the system. Juniper berries are also anti-septic and decongestant. I use the essential oil in varicose vein creams and in aching muscle herbal bath oils.

Here's the warming decongestant cold and flu drink we made up yesterday.

~ Juniper Berry Winter Tonic ~
10 Juniper berries - crushed
5 Cloves
Half a lemon - chopped fine
1 tsp Grated lemon rind
1 cup Water

Boil up the water with the cloves and crushed berries. Simmer for 10mins with the lid on the pot - to keep in those volatile oils. Add in the lemon and grated rind and simmer for another few minutes. Strain and drink hot.

This is a strong drink so taking 2 cups a day for 3 days is plenty. Enjoy!