Thuja Essence
Description
© Southwest School of Botanical Medicine
THUJA (Thuja spp)
Family: Cupressaceae (conifer)
Source: The Essential oil is obtained from the Leafy young twigs.
Fragrance:Fresh, pungent.
Volatility: Top note.
General description and habitat:
A type of strongly aromatic evergreen tree/shrub; native to North America, Japan, China, Korea. Known as white cedar.
Principal constituents: Pinene, borneol, bornyl acetate, thujone, fenchone, fenone.
History
History and folk use:
Thuja is the Latinized form of the Greek thuo (to sacrifice).
Leaves and bark were made into a poultice by the American Indians and used for rheumatic conditions, or infused to make a decoction for drinking to combat viral infections.
Hahnemann(1755-1843), who founded homeopathy, introduced its therapeutic qualities into Europe. Its healing powers were widely extolled in the nineteenth century.
Properties & Uses
General properties: Antirheumatic, antiseptic.
Primary uses :
Acne
Alopecia
Psoriasis
Secondary Uses:
| Balding, | Severe Infection, |
| Tumors, | Urinary Problems, |
| Warts, | Weeping Skin. |
Contraindications
Not for self treatment.
Not to be taken internally.
Consult an aromatherapist.
Even some aromatherapists stay away from this oil, entirely.
The German Commission E also notes the possibility for poisoning due to abuse of large doses of the herb, resulting from the thujone content of the oil.
References:
Blumenthal, M (Ed.): The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical Council. Austin, TX. 1998.
| Signup Free Applied Health Journal |
||||
|
FREE Sample Issue Your email address is all we need to start you on a better path to health. We respect your privacy.
|
