Tag Archives: Arborvitae

How to Use Essential Oils:

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Arborvitae essential oil, derived from the “tree of life,” is known for its natural preserving properties and unique benefits. Traditionally used to prevent wood from rotting, this oil has been a popular choice for woodcraft and preserving natural surfaces. By mixing four drops of Arborvitae essential oil with two drops of lemon essential oil, you can create a natural wood preservative and polish, helping to protect and enhance the longevity of wooden furniture, countertops, and décor. Its ability to repel moisture and resist decay makes it a valuable tool for natural home maintenance.

Beyond wood preservation, Arborvitae essential oil can be used to protect against environmental threats. Adding 5-6 drops of Arborvitae oil to a spray bottle filled with water creates a natural surface and hand spray, offering protection without the use of harsh chemicals. Additionally, its strong, earthy aroma makes it a powerful insect repellent. When mixed with fractionated coconut oil and applied to the wrists and ankles, Arborvitae oil can help ward off insects while hiking or spending time outdoors. These protective properties make it a great addition to natural wellness and household care routines.

In addition to its physical benefits, Arborvitae essential oil is valued for its grounding and calming effects in meditation and mindfulness practices. Diffusing 3-4 drops of Arborvitae oil during meditation can help create a peaceful and centered atmosphere, allowing for deeper relaxation and focus. It is also sometimes used in emotional balancing blends to encourage feelings of stability and connection. Whether used for preserving wood, repelling insects, or fostering a sense of inner peace, Arborvitae essential oil is a versatile and beneficial addition to any essential oil collection.

Arborvitae: The Tree of Life

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Arborvitae, the tree of life,
Majestic, ancient, wisdom rife.
Its fragrant wood, a gift profound,
Preserves, protects, and stands its ground.

To Native hands, this tree was kin,
A sacred bond, deep roots within.
Its oils they used, its strength revered,
A guardian where threats appeared.

For tools, for homes, for sacred flame,
Arborvitae upheld its name.
Its heartwood strong, immune to time,
Resisting rot, decay, and grime.

With lemon’s zest, it guards and shines,
A polish pure, where beauty aligns.
A spritz to shield from nature’s harms,
A balm to calm with soothing charms.

In forest’s hush, its oils ignite
A tranquil peace, a meditative light.
Its essence speaks of strength and grace,
A timeless guide in life’s vast space.

O tree of life, with branches wide,
Your ancient wisdom will abide.
From Native lands to modern care,
Arborvitae’s gifts are everywhere.

Tree of Life and the Rest of the Story

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In the annals of history, there’s a remarkable tree often referred to as the “tree of life.” Its name hails from the 16th century, when French explorer Cartier learned from Native Americans how to use its leaves to treat scurvy, a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C. In Michigan, there’s even a record-breaking tree that’s really tall and wide.

This tree made its debut in Europe when French explorers brought it to Paris, marking it as the first tree from North America. It became a lifesaver during sea voyages when its bark and leaves were found to cure scurvy.

Belonging to a group called conifers, these trees produce cones and have special tissues for carrying water. They include various types like cedars, firs, and pines. Part of the cypress family, this tree is known for its strong and durable wood.

The wood has been used for many things, from making chests to building fences. It is mentioned to help with rheumatism. Some suggest it as a remedy for warts, but there’s not enough evidence for this.

These trees are popular for their ornamental value, growing quickly and creating natural fences. Additionally, the essential oil from these trees has calming properties and can be used in diffusers or applied to the skin for a peaceful feeling.

For maintaining wooden furniture, a natural wood polish can be made using the essential oil and other ingredients. This helps keep furniture fresh and clean without harmful chemicals.

Those interested in making cologne can combine the oil with cedarwood and frankincense for a musky outdoor scent that uplifts the senses. Whether for relaxation or practical uses, the arborvitae proves to be versatile and valuable in various aspects of life. Now you know the rest of the story.

Arborvitae-Did you know?

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Did you know the Arborvitae has been referred to as the tree of life? A native North American western red cedar tree, can reach 180 to 200 feet in height in some areas of the Northwest but is more often seen at 50 to70 feet in height with a spread of 15 to 25 feet in width. Forming an upright pyramidal silhouette with strongly horizontal branches, Giant-Cedar is an evergreen with fragrant, dark green, delicate needles. This very rare Western Red Cedar will put on 3 to 5 feet of growth per year.

The arborvitae has been used by ancient civilizations to enhance their potential for spiritual communication during rituals and other ceremonies. Modern technology however has revealed that giant Arborvitae essential oil contains high levels of unique compounds called tropolones. Tropolones are an unusual seven membered carbon ring structure not found in significant concentrations in other essential oils. It is these tropolones that yield the unique therapeutic qualities of this oil.

When selecting a source of Arborvitae essential oil, one must be sure to choose a source whose oil does not contain thujone, a neurotoxic compound. Besides source geography, it is also essential to consider the plant part from which this oil is distilled: only essential oil from the wood of Arborvitae has been found to be free from thujone. When sampled and tested for thujone, essential oil from the wood of Arborvitae grown in the Pacific Northwest was found to have no thujone, indicating that oil from this region is safe for human use.

Arborvitae has been used for coughs, fevers and intestinal parasites. It also has antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties. Arborvitae is calming, and has been used as an insect repellent. This oil may also help with skin nourishing and sunscreen. It has a strong effect on the subconscious and unconscious mind.