How to Harvest Juniper Berries for Dry Curing
Throughout the centuries, juniper berries have been widely used in medicinal preparations; as a spice, game seasoning, moth repellent and air freshener; in jam and tea; and to make gin. Today, a resurgence of interest in juniper berries has erupted, focused on herbal medicine. Massage oils also commonly contain juniper berries to promote a feeling of relaxation. The berries form on small evergreen trees year round and can be harvested all year. Only female trees produce the berries. Once dried, the berries will keep for a year. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tightly woven basket
- Colander
- Dish soap
- Water
- Cookie sheet
- Air-tight container
Instructions
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Gently pick the berries from the tree by hand-selecting only the best. Harvest only plump, blue berries; berries that are still green are often used in gin. Place the berries in a basket with narrow weave so the tiny berries do not fall out.
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Place the juniper berries into a colander and rinse with warm, soapy water. Wash the soap from the berries with cold water.
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Spread the berries in a single layer on a cookie sheet and place in a sunny window. Let the berries naturally dry in the sun until they are shriveled and look like a tiny raisin.
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Place the berries in an air-tight container or zip-top bag. Store in a dark place.
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Tips & Warnings
Juniper berries can be placed in small sachets and used to repel moths in trunks, closets or dressers.
Dried juniper berries often turn completely black.
Pregnant women should never ingest juniper berries.
Anyone suffering from a renal problem should never ingest juniper berries.
Juniper berries contain sabinal, which can cause renal failure and may lead to seizures when consumed in excess.
Always consult a doctor before using juniper berries as a seasoning.
