Condition
Treatment Support
antiseptic
Application
tincture externally
Arbor vitae
(Thuja occidentalis)
Botanical Information
An aromatic tree in the Cypress family growing to sixty feet with small, scale-like leaves that are bright green above and yellowish-green below, with small yellowish flowers.
Working with Arbor vitae
Part(s) Used
Leaf, Stems
Herb Forms
Essential oil, tincture, homeopathic tablet
Thuja, commonly known as white cedar or arborvitae, has a rich history in herbal medicine, particularly within Native American and early European practices. Historically, it was used for its antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, applied externally for skin infections and internally for respiratory and urinary conditions.
Native Americans used thuja leaves to treat fevers, headaches, and respiratory infections. The essential oil was also used for ceremonial and healing practices. Early settlers in North America adopted it as a remedy for scurvy, wounds, and parasitic infections.
Modern Clinical Uses by Herbalists & Naturopaths
- Respiratory Health: Thuja is sometimes used in natural cold remedies, particularly for nasal congestion and bronchitis.
- Immune Support: Herbalists may use thuja to stimulate immune function, especially in cases of chronic infections.
- Wart Removal: Applied externally, thuja is frequently used as a topical treatment for warts and other skin growths.
- Thuja contains essential oils, primarily composed of thujone, along with flavonoids, tannins, and mucilage. Thujone is a key compound with potential medicinal effects but also has toxicity concerns. Thujone and other volatile oils in thuja exhibit antimicrobial and antiviral activities. Components in thuja may influence immune response, helping the body combat infections.
Christopher Hobbs:
“Thuja occidentalis has a taste of BITTER, SPICY and a temperature of WARM.”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Dr. Christopher Hobbs.
Cautions
Contraindicated during pregnancy. Not for long-term use. Thuja contains thujone, a known mutagen. While pharmacologically active, it can be toxic in higher doses and affects the central nervous system. Do not exceed dose recommendations; use in small amounts only.
Conditions treated with Arbor vitae
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
bladder tonic, antiseptic, and astringent
Application
tincture, capsule, tablet
Condition
Treatment Support
expectorant, immune stimulant
Application
tea, tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
expectorant, antiseptic
Application
oil as steam inhalant
Condition
Treatment Support
antiseptic
Application
oil externally
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
