Juniperus communis is a coniferous evergreen tree widely distributed in temperate region. The fruits are harvested when fully ripen, eaten raw or cooked, and used for medicinal purposes. A decoction of branches is used as an anti-dandruff shampoo, and the essential oil from fruits is used in perfumes with spicy fragrances.

In herbal remedy, J. communis is well-known for its effect on the kidneys and bladder. It is known that J. communis helps clear uric acid from the body and tonifies the liver to work more efficiently. In folk remedies of Turkey, it has been used for their diuretic, anti-septic, stomachic, and carminative properties. Scientifically, the fruits of J. communis have been reported to have anti-oxidant property due to their polyphenolic and flavonoid compounds. It also shows anti-microbial effect, especially against Staphylococcus aureus.