Juniperus sibirica (Juniperus sibirica)
Other names: Juniperus communis var. montana
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Siberian juniper, also known as Juniperus communis var. montana, is a conifer characterised by its blue-green evergreen needles. This tree, which can reach a height of up to 30 metres, is native to North America and Eurasia and is adapted to the extremely cold conditions that prevail in these regions. Its fruits, small blue berries, are a typical feature of the juniper tree.
The main use of the Siberian juniper is for its berries, which are used in various fields, from medicine to gastronomy. The berries contain fruit that is a source of vitamins, flavonoids and antioxidants. In medicine, they are used for their antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. In the culinary arts, Siberian juniper berries are often used as a spice, especially in traditional recipes from Scandinavia and North America. They are probably best known for their use in the preparation of gin, where they give the drink its characteristic taste. Siberian juniper is also used in perfumery, where its aromatic essential oils add a fresh and woody note to fragrances.