The Western red cedar, scientifically known as Thuja plicata, is one of the five genus of Cupressaceae. These are hardy coniferous trees and shrubs, two of which are native to the United States and Canada.
The essential oil of the Western red cedar leaf is obtained through steam distillation of the leaves of the Western red cedar tree. This oil has been used for centuries by the native people of the American Pacific Northwest to enhance their connections to spiritual communications within various rituals and practices. Its strong coniferous, camphor-like clean/fresh aroma is reminiscent of Sage Dalmatian, and it can help to enhance meditation when blended with Sandalwood Mysore.
Our Western Red Cedar Leaf essential oil is a clear to opaque liquid that is mostly used for its disinfectant and antiseptic properties, but has numerous other applications.
Many North American Indian tribes used Thuja not only as an aid for spiritual enlightenment but also for making a poultice from the leaves and bark to treat rheumatic and arthritic joints. It was found to reduce pain and inflammation. The essential oil should be used in a highly diluted form. You can try adding a drop or two in a dilution containing Kunzea, another remarkable essential oil used with conditions of rheumatism and arthritis.
Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843), the father of homeopathy, introduced the plant's medicinal qualities to Europe in the form of a tincture. By 1875, two German doctors (Brecher and Mohnike) wrote about the incredible healing powers of Thuja, particularly in cases concerning tumors and skin excrescences. They both noted how fast the skin would repair and heal itself with only a twice-daily application of the tincture. The skin became pale and dry, inflammation would lessen, and eventually, the tumors would disappear. Dr. Leclerc prescribed it for warts, skin abnormalities, and as a stimulant of the urinary tract due to Thuja's remarkable stimulant constituents.
Western Red Cedar Leaf essential oil has emmenagogue properties, which can stimulate menstrual flow. Therefore, it should never be used during pregnancy. However, for disorders such as oligomenorrhea (infrequent or light mensis) stemming from hormonal issues, Western Red Cedar Leaf essential oil may have positive effects. This oil may also help with hair loss (alopecia), coughing, fevers, cystitis, and STDs. It has also been used as an alternative to mothballs by adding a few drops to cotton balls and placing them within closets and chests of drawers away from clothing.
Historically, The Western Red Cedar has been referred to as 'The Tree of Life'. However, it should never be used internally. Since the oil's Thujone content is so high, it is advised to use it very sparingly and dilute it with good carrier oils before any topical use.
When Cedar Leaf, Western Red Thuja essential oil is used in a diffuser, the effects are very calming and may enhance spiritual awareness and meditation.
It is vital to note that this leaf-derived essential oil should not be confused with the bark/wood-derived Canadian red cedar oil, which is also Thuja plicata and commonly called Western Red Cedarwood.
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