Juniper

The Juniper is present in Europe up to 2,500 m above sea level, but in these regions with a very harsh climate, it takes on twisted, prostrate forms. Their flavor gave rise to the name of the plant, derived from a Celtic word, juneprus, meaning acrid. In the Middle Ages, these false berries were reputed to bring about miraculous healings; even in the 16th century, they were considered a prodigious universal panacea. Today, the berries are used as a diuretic and aperitif; they are also the basic element in the preparation of gin and are used to smoke ham, to which they give an unparalleled flavour. They enter the recipes of some dishes of European cuisine. It is used for preserves, stewed dishes and especially with game. It is the main ingredient of some alcohols such as gin and ginepi.