Oriental arborvitae (Platycladus orientalis)
Synopsis of oriental arborvitae
Oriental arborvitae (Platycladus orientalis, formerly Thuja orientalis) is an evergreen conifer native to China, Korea, and parts of the Himalayas. It belongs to the cypress family (Cupressaceae) and is widely cultivated for ornamental and medicinal purposes. In traditional medicine, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the seeds and leaves of the tree are used, with the seeds referred to as Bai Zi Ren.
The seeds are rich in fatty oils, resins, saponins, and flavonoids, while the leaves contain volatile oils such as pinene, cedrol, and camphene, contributing to the plant’s medicinal properties. Oriental arborvitae is most commonly used to calm the spirit, nourish the heart yin, moisten the intestines, and relieve constipation, especially in the elderly or those with deficiency-type dryness.
Bai Zi Ren is used to treat symptoms like palpitations, insomnia, night sweats, anxiety, and forgetfulness, often associated with yin and blood deficiencies in TCM. It is also included in herbal formulas for chronic constipation due to its lubricating effect on the bowels. The leaves, although used less frequently, have astringent and hemostatic properties and may be applied topically to stop bleeding or to treat hair loss.
Modern studies suggest the plant has sedative, neuroprotective, laxative, and antimicrobial effects. Some research has also investigated its potential antioxidant and antitumor activity, particularly due to its rich essential oil content. However, due to its potent constituents, especially in the leaves, dosage and preparation need to be carefully managed to avoid toxicity.
Historical Use in Medicine
Oriental arborvitae has a long history in Chinese medicine, where its seeds have been documented in classical texts such as the Shennong Bencao Jing (Divine Farmer’s Materia Medica), dating back nearly 2,000 years. Bai Zi Ren was traditionally prescribed for heart-related restlessness, emotional instability, and cognitive decline, reflecting early recognition of the herb’s neuro-calming properties.
Daoist practitioners also used the herb in formulas designed to promote longevity, tranquility, and spiritual focus. In addition to internal use, arborvitae leaves were sometimes burned as incense for purification and emotional clarity.
In Korean and Tibetan medicine, arborvitae was used similarly, valued for its ability to calm the mind and reduce internal heat. It was sometimes incorporated into healing rituals or used alongside meditation to enhance mental stillness.
Despite its long-standing use, the plant was also respected for its potency—particularly the leaves and essential oil, which were known to be irritant or toxic in high doses. This led to a preference for seed-based remedies, which are gentler and more nourishing.
Oriental arborvitae is used for these health conditions
Abrasions (Traditional)
Acne (Traditional)
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Traditional)
Anxiety (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Canker Sores (Traditional)
Cold Sores (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Congestion (sinus) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Dermatitis (Traditional)
Eczema (Traditional)
Eye Infections (Traditional)
Eye Problems (Traditional)
Eyes (red or itching) (Traditional)
Fungal Infections (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Herpes (Traditional)
Infection (Traditional)
Infection (bacterial) (Traditional)
Infection (viral) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Itching (Traditional)
Itching Ears (Traditional)
Poison Ivy or Oak (Traditional)
Rashes and Hives (Traditional)
Scars / Scar Tissue (Traditional)
Scratches and Abrasions (Traditional)
Skin (infections) (Traditional)
Staph Infections (Traditional)
Strep Throat (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Sunburn (Traditional)
Warts (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
oriental arborvitae is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Nerves (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Products containing oriental arborvitae
Nature's Sunshine Chinese TCM Negative Pack
Nature's Sunshine Nervous Fatigue TCM
