Evidence supporting the use of: Thuja plicata
For the health condition: Glands (swollen lymph)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Thuja plicata, commonly known as Western Red Cedar, has a history of traditional use among Indigenous peoples of North America, including as a remedy for a variety of ailments. In herbal medicine, its close relative, Thuja occidentalis (Northern White Cedar), has a more documented history of use for supporting the lymphatic system and for treating conditions such as swollen glands, warts, and respiratory infections. The rationale for using Thuja species in these contexts is primarily based on their perceived immune-modulating and antimicrobial properties. However, the use of Thuja plicata specifically for swollen lymph glands is grounded in traditional herbal practice rather than scientific validation. There is a scarcity of modern clinical studies evaluating its efficacy or mechanisms in treating lymphatic swelling or related pathologies. Most available evidence is anecdotal or based on ethnobotanical surveys, without rigorous clinical trials or pharmacological studies to substantiate the claims. As such, while Thuja plicata may be referenced in herbal traditions for glandular or lymphatic support, the strength of evidence is low and not supported by modern science.
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