Juniper

The female seed cone or "berries" of the Juniper evergreen shrub native to Northern and Central Europe. Round, deep purple fruit is a source of the signature flavouring in gin as well as a culinary spice adding a bitter spice. Used by the First Nations of the Canadian Martimes as a tonic and to treat tuberculosis although today its most commonly used as an antiseptic and diuretic to treat urinary tract infections. Care should be taken when using juniper for medicinal purposes as it is very potent and can cause serious side effects.