Thuja / Cedar Leaf (Thuja occidentalis) is a woody essential oil with a green, woody, camphoraceous aroma and a heart note. Steam distillation from leaf, it is a versatile blending oil. For topical use, keep dilution at or below 0.25%.
Eastern White Cedar. Contains thujone (up to 65%) -- neurotoxic. Max dermal 0.25%.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Properties
| Perfumery note | Heart |
| Aroma family | Woody |
| Chemical family | Ketone |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | leaf |
| Origin | Canada, USA |
| Blending factor | 4 |
| Volatility index | 2 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 5.0 |
Safety & dilution
NEUROTOXIC. Contains thujone (up to 65%). Potentially convulsant. Extremely restricted dermal use.
| Max topical dilution | 0.25% |
| Max facial dilution | 0.12% |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended |
| Nursing | Not recommended |
| Children | Not recommended for young children |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Not recommended |
Safety flags
Evidence: Traditional — EODB: 2 GC-MS analyses (Thuja occidentalis).
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Plan safe amounts with our essential oil dilution calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What does Thuja / Cedar Leaf essential oil smell like?
Thuja / Cedar Leaf has a green, woody, camphoraceous, sharp aroma, classed as a woody oil with a heart note.
What is the safe dilution for Thuja / Cedar Leaf?
For topical use, keep Thuja / Cedar Leaf at or below 0.25%, and 0.12% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Thuja / Cedar Leaf safe to use during pregnancy?
Thuja / Cedar Leaf is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any use.
Is Thuja / Cedar Leaf safe to use around children?
Thuja / Cedar Leaf is not recommended for young children. Consult a professional before use.
Is Thuja / Cedar Leaf safe around pets?
For cats — avoid; not considered safe; dogs — avoid; not considered safe. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.