The Arborvitae tree can reach up to 100–200 feet in height and is known as the largest tree in the cypress family and often lives to be 400–1000+ years old!. It is characterised by its reddish-brown bark, horizontal branches, and scaly dark green vegetation with upright brown cones.
In its essential oil form, Arborvitae may help promote clear, healthy-looking skin when applied topically. It is a powerful cleansing and purifying agent and a natural insect repellent and wood preservative. 🌲
Despite what is recommended as blending well with any oil, it’s our nose that makes the final decision as to if it smells ‘right’ for us. I once made a bespoke Autumnal blend for an aromatherapy client who enjoyed the deeper earthier notes. Her bespoke blend was: Arborvitae, Frankincense, Cinnamon, Myrrh, Sandalwood, Rosemary & Deep Blue. Quite a few oils there, but it was gorgeous!
I love the base notes myself, particularly the earthier, greener, and deeper smells and I love trees, so we got to squeeze several trees in. The aroma was divine, with the Arborvitae and Cinnamon coming through the strongest, a beautiful smell indeed. (If you’d ever like me to make it up for you, give me a shout and I can do you a rollerball!)
Towards the end of the treatment, whilst working on my client’s scalp, I got a strong sense that Arborvitae was linked to Grandfather energy, being about strength, wisdom, that patriarchal support through the generations, and a love that comes from afar, particularly if our grandfathers are no longer physically around in our life. It was an incredibly special connection indeed.
I loved (still do) both my grandfathers very much and whilst they might not have been demonstrative in showing their feelings, they were both very caring and sensitive men. Part of my DNA, my family history and I love that there are elements of them within me. Arborvitae will always remind me of this. ❤️
When I first smelt Arborvitae essential oil, I didn’t like it until Mum said it smells like a wood yard! That conjured up memories of going to the woodyard with my Dad (DIY expert) and since then I’ve loved its aroma, its vibration, and the way it conjures up a strong, grounded, and safe masculine energy type of feel. This oil really works on my limbic system, bringing memories to the fore. A wonderful oil this one!
If you want to purchase some Arborvitae from me, please get in touch or go to my webshop here.
| Extraction method | Steam distillation from Heartwood (central wood) of the majestic, evergreen coniferous thuja plicata tree – also known as the Western Red Cedar |
| Place of origin | Native to North America (primarily Canada & Northwest US) |
| Aroma | Woody, warm, earthy aroma |
| Properties |
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| Body systems | Respiratory system and skin |
| Blends well with | Basil, birch, cassia, cedarwood, cilantro, copaiba, cumin, eucalyptus, oregano |
| How to use | Topically and aromatically. Nice with any of the above oils for diffusing or dilute for topical application to reflex points or area of concern |
| Emotional balance | The Oil of Divine Grace – transmuting: wilful, excessive effort, distrusting, rigid, fearful, controlling to peaceful, surrender, grounded, trusting, relaxed, grace |
| Practical use | An excellent wood preservative, often used in woodcraft and for cleansing and protecting wood surfaces |
| Historical use |
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| Chakras | Helpful for the base (grounding), solar plexus (balancing), and crown (connective) |
| Interesting fact | All parts of the tree were used extensively by Native Americans for health benefits and for building vessels, totem poles, baskets, and clothing – no wonder it is referred to as the “Tree of Life” |
| Safety data | Possible skin sensitivity. Keep out of reach of children. Use with caution during pregnancy. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas. Use sparingly & dilute. Always remember, the less is more rule! |
