Eastern red cedar

Juniperus virginiana

Native American

Photo credit: Famartin

Safety information

Toxicity: Internal use cautioned — junipers contain irritant volatile oils (and the 'savin' group is abortifacient); concentrated internal use can irritate kidneys/uterus.

Contraindications: Pregnancy (uterine stimulant / 'savin' reputation), kidney disease; avoid high internal doses.

Interactions: Diuretic effect — caution with diuretics; possible hypoglycemic interaction.

Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Contraindicated in pregnancy (uterine stimulant / savin reputation).

Evidence level

Traditional (systematized)

Documented in systematic traditional medicine literature.

Preparations

steam/infusion · leaf/twig

Part used: leaf/twig

Evidence:Traditional (systematized)

poultice · leaf/twig

Part used: leaf/twig

Evidence:Folk

smudge/smoke (ceremonial) · leaf/twig

Part used: leaf/twig

Traditional use: purification smudge; foliage tea/steam for colds, coughs, rheumatism; poultices for skin; berries for various complaints

Proposed mechanism: aromatic oils (incl. thujone-class terpenes); antimicrobial in vitro

Dosage note (descriptive only): avoid high internal doses

Evidence:Traditional (systematized)

General preparation guide →

Associated conditions

Rheumatism Skin conditions (general)Cough Common cold

Nutritional notes

n/a (aromatic).

Healing traditions

Native American

Sources (2)

USDA NRCS (Juniperus virginiana)
Moerman, Native American Ethnobotany

All sources →