Common juniper (Juniperus communis)

Gitxsan name:  laxsa-laxnok' (boughs of the supernatural)
Wet'suwet'en name:  detsan

Botanical Description

• evergreen, prostrate and trailing branch shrub, very thin, reddish brown scaly bark
• needle-like leaves
• female cones berrylike, bluish black; male cones white-gray
• found in dry open woods, gravely ridges, outcrops, open rocky slopes
• lowland forest to alpine tundra

Photo courtesy of Jim Pojar(65kB)

Ethnobotanical Description

The Gitxsan most often used the common juniper as a fumigant, deodorizer and cleanser, especially in connection with sickness. They burned or boiled the boughs, and the strong pungent odor produced was used to purify the house and protect the inhabitants from infection and harmful spirits. It could be used with other plants in a "smudge" mixture or fumigant in ceremonies or rituals. The Gitxsan and Wet'suwet'en names both suggest that the plant possesses supernatural powers. The branches and berries were boiled to make a tea, which was taken as a medicine for tuberculosis, colds, heart trouble and respiratory problems. Also used a decoction with other plants as a general spring tonic.

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This digital collection was produced under contract to the SchoolNet Digital Collection Program, Industry Canada.
Revised: 08/21/98