Thuja (Thuja occidentalis)
Overview
Thuja (Thuja occidentalis), also called Arborvitae or white cedar, is a coniferous evergreen tree reaching about 33 ft (10 m). Known for potent antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic effects, its scale-like leaves (collected in summer) carry a distinct scent due to their volatile oil content (rich in thujone).
Traditional uses & properties
Antifungal & Antiparasitic: Helpful for candida, athlete’s foot, ringworm, amoebic dysentery, and giardia. Antiviral: Leaves can address warts, polyps, and some chronic infections. Emmenagogue & Urinary Tonic: Stimulates menstruation, but used carefully; also disinfects urinary tract. Expectorant: Modestly beneficial for bronchial congestion; used short-term for chesty coughs.
Preparations & dosage
Fresh needles (1:2, 95% alcohol); 0.5–1 ml (0.1–0.2 tsp.) 3 times daily
4–8 ounces 3 times daily
The essential oil can be diluted 1:5 and applied to venereal warts (HPV), common warts, skin tags, and itchy skin conditions.
Safety & precautions
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid; in the 1930s, thuja was used to induce abortion. Prolonged Use: Potential kidney irritation from the thujone content. Essential Oil: Risk of toxicity if taken internally in significant amounts.
Habitat
Native to the northeastern U.S. and Canada, thriving in wet, marshy ground along rivers. The leaves are gathered in summer and dried.
Traditionally used for
Related herbs
- Calendula (Calendula officinalis)
Calendula (Calendula officinalis), with its bright orange daisy-like flowers, is among the most versatile herbs in Western herbal medicine. Its petals contain antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and vulnerary properties, making it excellent for speeding tissue repair in wounds, burns, bruises, and various skin irritations. Calendula is also used internally for gastrointestinal inflammation (e.g., Crohn’s disease, colitis, gastritis).
- Pau d'Arco (Tabebuia impetiginosa)
Pau d'arco is an evergreen tree that can reach 100 feet in height, producing pink flowers. The bark of this South American tree has been treasured for centuries in traditional medicine for its extensive health benefits. Indigenous peoples including the Incas and the Callawaya valued it as a cure-all. The tree grows in both mountainous terrains high in the Andes and in low-lying areas of Paraguay and Brazil. The prized inner bark is collected from wild-growing trees throughout the year.