Thuja Supplement: What It Is, How to Use It, and What to Watch For

If you’ve seen thuja in a health store or read about it online, you might wonder if it’s worth adding to your routine. Thuja, also called arborvitae, comes from the leaves and twigs of a evergreen tree native to North America and Europe. The most common form you’ll find is thuja oil, but the supplement market also offers capsules and tinctures that contain the plant’s active compounds.

Why People Take Thuja Supplements

Most users take thuja for its supposed immune‑boosting and anti‑inflammatory effects. The plant contains thujone, a compound that can stimulate the nervous system in small amounts. Some anecdotal reports say thuja helps with seasonal allergies, skin irritations, and even minor joint pain. While scientific evidence is limited, the traditional use in folk medicine gives a clue why many are curious.

How to Take Thuja Safely

Start with the lowest dose the manufacturer recommends—usually 1–2 drops of oil or 250 mg of a capsule per day. If you tolerate it well, you can increase gradually up to the maximum listed on the label, but never exceed the suggested amount. Take the supplement with food to reduce the chance of stomach upset. If you’re using a tincture, dilute the drops in a little water or juice.

Watch out for interactions. Thujone can enhance the effects of other nervous‑system stimulants, so combine thuja with high‑dose caffeine, certain antidepressants, or seizure medications only under a doctor’s guidance. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid thuja because thujone can cross the placenta and affect a developing baby.

Side effects are rare at low doses, but some people report headaches, dizziness, or skin rash. If any of these pop up, stop taking the supplement and talk to a health professional. Remember, natural doesn’t automatically mean safe for everyone.

When you shop, look for products that list the exact amount of thujone and have third‑party testing. Cheap, unlabeled oils may contain contaminants or inconsistent concentrations, which can lead to unexpected reactions.

Overall, thuja can be a useful addition for those looking for a mild herbal boost, provided you start low, stay within recommended limits, and keep an eye on how your body reacts. Pair it with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and good sleep for the best chance of feeling the benefits.