Definition:

Western Red Cedar is a large, slow-growing evergreen tree native to the Pacific Northwest. It has been used for centuries by Indigenous peoples for a variety of medicinal purposes, particularly for respiratory and skin ailments.

Botanical Name: Thuja plicata

Common Name: Western Red Cedar

Family: Cupressaceae

Part Used: Bark, leaves

Energetics:

• Taste: Bitter, pungent
• Temperature: Warming, drying

Actions:

• Antimicrobial
• Antifungal
• Expectorant
• Astringent
• Antiseptic

Body Systems:

• Respiratory System: Western Red Cedar is traditionally used as an expectorant to help clear mucus from the lungs and respiratory tract, making it useful for colds, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections.
• Skin: It has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it useful for treating fungal infections, wounds, and skin irritations.
• Immune System: Western Red Cedar helps stimulate the immune system, supporting the body in fighting infections.

Primary Constituents:

• Volatile oils: Thujone, borneol, camphor (responsible for antimicrobial and expectorant effects)
• Tannins: Provide astringent action
• Flavonoids: Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory

Safety Precautions:

• Pregnancy & Lactation: Not recommended for internal use during pregnancy, as high doses of thujone can be toxic and may stimulate uterine contractions.
• Internal Use: Use of Western Red Cedar internally should be done cautiously and under professional supervision due to the thujone content. It is primarily used externally.

Traditional & Modern Uses:

• Respiratory Health: Western Red Cedar is commonly used as an expectorant to clear mucus from the lungs and relieve symptoms of colds, bronchitis, and other respiratory infections. It can also help treat chronic coughs and congestion.
• Antimicrobial & Antifungal: It is often used to treat skin conditions like fungal infections, athlete’s foot, and minor wounds. Its antimicrobial properties help prevent infections when applied topically.
• Skin Health: Western Red Cedar is used in external preparations like salves and washes to treat skin infections, rashes, and other irritations.
• Immune Support: Traditionally used by Indigenous peoples to support the immune system, Western Red Cedar helps the body fight infections and recover from illness.

Preparations & Dosage:

• Infusion (Tea): For respiratory health, steep 1 tsp of dried cedar leaves in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Drink 1-2 cups daily. (Note: Use caution and consult a healthcare provider for internal use.)
• Tincture: 2-4 ml, up to three times daily (for professional use only).
• Topical Use: Apply cedar leaf infusion or oil to fungal infections, cuts, or skin irritations. It can be used as a wash or incorporated into salves for skin conditions.
• Steam Inhalation: Add a few drops of cedar essential oil to hot water and inhale the steam to relieve respiratory congestion.