Thuja occidentalis

Eastern White Cedar

Parts Used: Leaves, inner bark, leaf oil

The eastern white-cedar is also called northern white-cedar, arborvitae and swamp-cedar. The name arborvitae or "tree of life" dates from the 16th century when the French explorer Jacques Cartier learned from the Indians how to use the tree's foliage to treat scurvy.

Thuja was an old North American Indian remedy for delayed menstruation; scientific research has shown that it is a stimulant to smooth muscles, such as those of the uterus and bronchial passages. Its stimulating expectorant effect is useful for treating bronchitis. Externally, herbalists use an infusion as a wash for infectious skin diseases such as impetigo or scabies. An ointment is reputed cure for warts. A hot compress eases rheumatic pains.

CAUTION! Not to be used during pregnancy. Thujone, the main constituent of the volatile oil, is toxic in any quantity, so the herb should only be taken in small doses and for no more than a week or two at a time. Thuja should only be used as prescribed by a qualified practitioner.