Side Effects of Thuja Oil

Thuja, also known as eastern white cedar or yellow cedar, is an evergreen in the cypress family. In Europe it is also grown as an ornamental plant. Its branches and leaves contain an oil called thujone, used in herbal remedies. Some claim that thuja oil helps with side effects from chemotherapy and radiation. Herbalists sometimes prescribe thuja oil to treat viral and bacterial infections.

Thujone Effects

• Thujone, a component of thuja, can cause muscle spasms, seizures, and hallucinations if swallowed. It interferes with the nerve cells on the brain and can also damage the liver and the kidneys if taken in high doses.

Thuja

• Thuja can be toxic if taken in large doses. It can cause asthma attacks, intestinal irritation, and miscarriage. There is very little known about thuja, so taking it internally is not recommended by medical professionals.

Essential Oil

• The essential oil made from thuja, or thuja oil, can cause spasms if ingested. In high doses damage to the liver and kidneys is possible, as are seizures. If it makes contact with eyes or skin, it can cause burns and irritation.

The Thuja Tree

• Contact with the thuja tree can cause side effects on its own. People who work with this tree have reported asthma and rashes. The leaves and branch shoots can also cause poisoning. Actual deaths have been reported as poisoning by the thuja.