Thuja oil is made from the leaves and young stems of the Arborvitae plant
Thuja is an aromatic essential oil with a myriad of uses. An ancient remedy for several types of ailments, this preparation should be used with caution due to its strength and toxic properties. Thuja was a medicinal staple for many ancient civilizations in North America and is still used today to provide relief for numerous conditions.
Derivation
Thuja oil is also known as thuya or cedar leaf oil and is derived from the Arborvitae or "Tree of Life." Arborvitae is widely used in North America as a hedge plant. Thuja oil is distilled from the leaves and young twigs of the plant. The oil has a scent that closely resembles that of camphor. The plant was used by Native Americans as incense, and for ailments such as warts, parasites, coughs, fever and joint pain. The oil contains a toxin known as thujone, a neurotoxin that can cause spasms, diarrhea, gastrointestinal distress and spontaneous abortion in pregnant women.
Thuja and Skin Conditions
Thuja has been used for centuries to treat skin conditions. A preparation of thuja and grape seed oil or an infusion of the leaves in water can be used as a skin wash for conditions such as psoriasis and fungal infections. Thuja oil has also been a treatment for genital warts; however, the oil is very strong and should be used carefully or diluted with other oils such as vegetable or castor. Thuja oil has also been used to treat impetigo and scabies.
Joint Pain
In an article for Organic Facts, Aparup Mukherjee explains how the soothing properties of thuja can also ease the pain of arthritis, gout and rheumatism. A rub composed of thuja and castor oils can be smoothed on the joint and then covered with a warm, damp pack. Relaxing with the the thuja pack for 30 to 60 minutes is said to bring relief to the aching joint.
Thuja and Cancer
While current scientific research does not support thuja cancer treatment claims, several proponents of its use believe that the use of thuja oil lessens the toxic effects of radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Preparations are given internally to counteract effects of radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and used externally for the pain caused by the cancer.
Other Homeopathic Uses
Thuja and thuja oil are also used homeopathically to treat viral and bacterial infections, respiratory infections, and strep throat. It has been used as a blood purifier and to increase urination. Thuja has been used since ancient times and is still used by some herbalists to induce abortion. It is said to help relieve vaginal infections, as well as warts, eczema and other skin diseases. Some herbalists even use thuja to treat mental illnesses such as depression, irritability and impaired thinking.
Precautions
There is currently no scientific evidence to support or debunk any claims that thuja oil is either safe or effective used internally or externally to cure physical and mental ailments.
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