Ingredient
Thuja Orientalis Extract
Thuja Orientalis Extract is flagged for pregnancy, breastfeeding and trying to conceive. The concern behind the strongest flag is absorbed into the body and fetal development.
- Oriental Arborvitae Extract
- Chinese Thuja Extract
- Biota Extract
Verdict by profile
Truva checks every ingredient against six profiles. Jump to any of them for the full assessment.
- Strongest verdict
- Not Recommended
- Its verdict for pregnancy, the profile this one is worst in
- Profiles flagged
- 3 of 6
- Counting avoid, high risk and medium risk
- Irritancy
- 2 of 5
- Higher means more likely to sting or redden
Thuja Orientalis Extract and pregnancy
Not Recommended
- Absorbed into the body
- Fetal development
Thuja orientalis extract comes from the Oriental arborvitae tree and contains compounds including thujone, which is known to have biological activity. The extract is used in cosmetics for its antimicrobial and astringent properties. Thuja species contain thujone, a compound that has raised safety concerns during pregnancy. While oral consumption of thuja is explicitly contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulant effects and neurotoxicity concerns, topical application in cosmetics involves much lower exposure. However, essential oils and plant extracts can be absorbed through skin, and the safety of topical thuja extract during pregnancy has not been adequately studied. Many herbalists and aromatherapists recommend avoiding thuja in all forms during pregnancy as a precautionary measure. Given the known concerns about thujone compounds and the lack of safety data for topical use during pregnancy, most healthcare providers recommend avoiding products containing thuja extract during pregnancy. While cosmetic concentrations are much lower than oral doses, the conservative approach is to avoid exposure when safer alternatives exist.
Thuja Orientalis Extract and breastfeeding
Caution Advised
- Passes into breast milk
Thuja orientalis extract contains thujone and other bioactive compounds that could theoretically be absorbed through skin and transfer to breast milk, though data on this specific pathway is limited. Oral consumption of thuja is contraindicated during breastfeeding due to concerns about infant exposure to thujone through breast milk. While topical cosmetic use involves significantly lower exposure, plant extracts can penetrate skin to some degree. The lack of specific safety studies on topical thuja use during breastfeeding means the risk cannot be fully characterized. Many lactation consultants and herbalists recommend avoiding thuja-containing products during breastfeeding as a precautionary measure, particularly if applied to large areas of skin or used frequently. If choosing to use products with this ingredient, avoid application near the breast area.
Thuja Orientalis Extract and postpartum
Safe to Use
- Irritant
For postpartum women who are not breastfeeding, thuja orientalis extract poses fewer concerns. Its antimicrobial properties may be beneficial for skin that is healing or recovering from pregnancy-related changes. The main consideration is potential skin sensitivity, which can be heightened during the postpartum period due to hormonal changes. Start with patch testing and use cautiously if you have sensitive skin or a history of plant allergies.
Thuja Orientalis Extract and trying to conceive
Caution Advised
- Builds up in tissue
Given the recommendations to avoid thuja during pregnancy, many healthcare providers suggest discontinuing use when actively trying to conceive. This allows any accumulated compounds to clear before conception occurs. While topical cosmetic use likely poses minimal risk, the conservative approach is to switch to alternative antimicrobial ingredients once you begin trying to conceive, ensuring you're not using it if you become pregnant before realizing it.
Thuja Orientalis Extract and PCOS
Safe to Use
Thuja orientalis extract has antimicrobial and astringent properties that may be beneficial for PCOS-related skin concerns, particularly acne and oiliness. There is no evidence that thuja extract affects androgen levels or hormonal balance relevant to PCOS. Its benefits are primarily related to its antimicrobial action, which can help manage bacterial overgrowth associated with acne. Safe for use in women with PCOS, with potential benefits for managing skin symptoms. No hormonal concerns or interactions with PCOS treatments.
Thuja Orientalis Extract and general use
Safe to Use
- Common allergen
- Irritant
Thuja orientalis extract is derived from the Oriental arborvitae tree and is valued in cosmetics for its antimicrobial, astringent, and antioxidant properties. It's traditionally used in Asian medicine and has been incorporated into modern skincare formulations. For the general population, the main concerns are potential allergic reactions and skin irritation in sensitive individuals. The extract contains various bioactive compounds including thujone, which can cause sensitization. Those with plant allergies or sensitive skin should patch test products containing this ingredient. Generally recognized as safe for topical cosmetic use in non-pregnant, non-breastfeeding adults when used at appropriate concentrations. However, individuals with sensitive skin should use cautiously and watch for signs of irritation.
Everything else flagged for the same profiles
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Where this came from
Truva summarises published guidance from bodies including ACOG, the FDA, the EU SCCS and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. It has no access to your medical history and it is not a substitute for your doctor, dermatologist or midwife. These assessments have not been reviewed by a clinician, and nothing here is a diagnosis or a prescription. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or being treated for PCOS, take the ingredient list to the person looking after you.
Assessment last pulled from the ingredient database on .
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