Dried juniper berries can be made into a delicious and healthy herbal tea. Learn how to make juniper berry tea here!
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What are Juniper Berries?
Juniper Berries are not actual berries, but seed cones produced by a variety of juniper trees! Juniper trees are coniferous evergreens in the Cypress family. They come in both tree and shrub varieties. Most juniper species produce safe and edible juniper berries, such as Juniperus communis (Common Juniper), Juniperus deppeana Alligator Juniper and Juniperus californica (California Juniper). Some species such as Juniperus sabina (Savin Juniper) produce highly toxic juniper berries and should not be consumed. Always do your research before foraging or purchase from a reputable place like Mountain Rose Herbs.
Ingredients
All you need is water and dried juniper berries to make juniper berry tea. It's delicious as is, with a touch of honey or a splash of milk, too!
What Does Juniper Berry Taste Like?
Juniper berries taste a lot like they smell! There is a pine-y citrus-y flavor with a hint of sharpness, spice and sweetness. It is wholly unique!
What is Juniper Berry Tea Good For?
The benefits of juniper berries are many! They have loads of antioxidants, as well as anti-inflammatory and blood sugar-reducing properties (perfect for diabetes). Juniper berry tea is also a natural diuretic, with cleansing properties for the kidneys and urinary tract system, as well as a natural antiseptic. It's also simply good for the soul! It's warming, delicious and is a really good way to connect with the plant. The first time I drank juniper berry tea I was amazed by just how much it embodied this plant I'd known and loved for years. I hope you have a similar, magical experience!
How to Make Juniper Berry Tea
- Add the dried juniper berries to a tea ball and place in a large mug (alternatively, put the berries directly in the mug).
- Pour the boiling water into the mug. Let steep for 15 minutes. Strain the berries or remove the tea ball.
- Enjoy as is or with a teaspoon of raw honey.
More Delicious Beverages
Juniper Berry Tea Recipe
Instructions
- Add the dried juniper berries to a tea ball and place in a large mug (alternatively, put the berries directly in the mug).
- Pour the boiling water into the mug. Let steep for 15 minutes. Strain the berries or remove the tea ball.
- Enjoy as is or with a teaspoon of raw honey.
Claudia Lamascolo says
This is very unique to me and I love teas of all kinds cant wait to try this one
Tavo says
I never thought of making tea with juniper berries! I love them, and I had them in my pantry. I just made the tea and loved it!
Kristen says
I'm so happy to hear that! Thank you for sharing. 🙂
Katherine says
I've had a jar of juniper berries in the cupboard for ages. I'm so excited to try this tea!
Gina says
I had this on a trip to Alaska a few years back where they make lots of recipes using the juniper berries. Had no idea it was this easy to make tea from them! Off to pick some off my bushes outside now 🙂
Sara says
Can you use fresh juniper berries instead of the dried?
Kristen says
Yes, you can! Use 1 tablespoon when using fresh. 🙂
ann says
I used to have lots of juniper trees where I lived before and I would just eat the berries right off the tree. Some trees produced very plump sweet ones, while others were more suitable for drying to use in cooking. I have to buy dry ones for now and just put them in a teapot to make enough for 3 cups!
ann says
Oh, and I used to make juniper jelly and jam out of the sweet ones. Very delicious!
Tavo says
I had no clue that I could make tea out of juniper berries! I loved it!
Kathleen says
What a simple tea recipe. I've never tried Juniper before but it sounds lovely. Looking forward to trying this tea.
Kristen says
Thank you! I hope you enjoy!
Mirlene says
There are times when I rather have tea than coffee. I never thought of using juniper berries but I will surely try this for a change!
Anjali says
I had no idea you could make juniper berry tea from scratch!! Can't wait to enjoy this with my breakfast tomorrow morning!
Tayler says
Tea is my love language, and this recipe is one of my favorites! Thanks so much for sharing!