Thuja essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the laves and branches of the thuja plant. While often used as decor, the thuja plant boasts many healing compounds. Thuja oil has anti-rheumatic, astringent, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant and tonic properties. While the oil can help with many ailments, it's important to note that excessive inhalation can cause irritation in the respiratory tract. (1)
Thuja Essential Oil Health Benefits
1. Relieves Rheumatism
Thuja essential oil works as a natural diuretic to flush toxins out of the body, including uric acid which can cause rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Thuja oil is also a natural stimulant that helps improve circulation, bringing warmth to painful areas and providing pain relief. (2)2. Works as an Astringent
The natural astringent properties of thuja essential oil causes the muscles, tissues, nerves and blood vessels to contract or shrink. This can help slow down or stop hemorrhaging from cut or torn blood vessels.3. Promotes Urination
Thuja essential oil works as a natural diuretic to increase the frequency of urination. By promoting urination, the oil helps keep the body free of excess water, excess salt, uric acid and other toxins that cause illness and infection.
4. Acts as an Emmenagogue
Thuja oil can help provide relief from pain associated with menstruation, such as cramps, abdominal pain, nausea and fatigue. It can also help make periods more regular by promoting the secretion of certain hormones like estrogen and progesterone. (3)5. Clears Respiratory Tract
Thuja essential oil has natural expectorant properties that can help expel phlegm in the respiratory tract and lungs. The oil relieves congestion to clear out mucus, open the airways and provide relief from coughing. (4)6. Repels Insects
Thuja oil is toxic by nature, which makes it a natural insecticide. It can help keep mosquitoes, lice, ticks, fleas and bed bugs at bay, as well as cockroaches, ants and moths. Use the oil in repellent sprays, fumigants or vaporizers.7. Stimulates Blood Circulation
The stimulating properties of thuja essential oil promote the secretion of hormones, enzymes, acids, gastric juices and bile. The oil also help stimulate the nerves, heart and brain, which leads to better alertness and a faster metabolism.