Thuja plicata, or the Western cedar, appears in recipes as an essential oil. Many of the recipes are remedies for viral, fungal, and bacterial infections, including HPV and psoriasis. Over the ages, civilizations have used it to treat coughs, skin conditions, venereal diseases, and parasites, as well as to enhance spiritual meditations. Browse the recipes and uses below to see if Thuja plicata can help you.
The human papillomavirus affects more than 15% of the population, and Thuja plicata can ease or completely remove the uncomfortable symptoms. The key to the recipes is consistency, as you may need to apply these topical applications for a few months to see results. To prepare the tincture version, purchase or pick fresh leaves and soak them in 200 proof alcohol with the ratio of one part herb (weight) to two parts alcohol (volume). Or, to make it easier, ask an herbalist or a health food store for a fresh Thuja tincture of 1:2.
Combine 30 drops of the tincture with the amount of water that a tampon soaks up. Because this is such an odd amount of liquid, experiment a few times beforehand to get the right amount. Mix the tincture and water and then use a plastic applicator tampon to soak up all the liquid. Use the tampon as you would normally. Repeat two to three times a day, and remember to always replace tampons at least every eight hours to prevent toxic shock syndrome. Do not use Thuja tea in place of the tincture with this recipe.
A second option for HPV is an essential oil recipe that requires less invasive measures and works for men as well as women. Purchase high quality oil that has not been cut with water and mix one ounce of olive oil with 20 to 30 ounces of Thuja. Apply the mixture to the blighted area three times a day. Do not stop treatment when symptoms subside; continue applying for two to three weeks after pap smears return to normal. Be aware that Thuja plicata oils become dangerous in large amounts, causing harm to the nervous system and kidneys. Always follow the prescribed amounts and lengths of treatment.
People often use Thuja plicata as a topical application to treat psoriasis, dandruff, and hair loss. For these purposes, make sure to dilute 10 to 30 drops in a small amount of water or mixing oil to prevent harmful side effects. Place on the affected area one to four times per day. Continue use even after symptoms subside to prevent them from reoccurring.
Thuja's ability to calm and focus the mind also makes it a great choice to dab on before a meditation session. Try rubbing a few drops of diluted oil onto the wrists before beginning a session. You can also use Thuja to replace potentially toxic mothballs. Just soak cotton balls or wood chips in diluted Thuja essential oil and place as desired to ward off the pesky insect.
Because of their high Thujone content, Thuja plicata oils can cause stomach upset, tachycardia, vertigo, tremors and convulsions if used improperly. Consult a holistic health care practitioner or herbalist before beginning any treatment.