Juniper is a small shrub with widespread distribution in France and throughout the other parts of the world. It is one of the most thoroughly described medicinal plants, and its small berries have found their way into the pharmacist's mortar, the chef's cooking pot and the liquor-maker's distillery. In ancient times and during the Middle Ages, Juniper was used a panacea to all ills: its fumigations were used as a disinfectant and Juniper wine was valued for its diuretic virtues.