Calendula (Calendula officinalis) vs Thuja (Thuja occidentalis)

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Thuja (Thuja occidentalis)

About

Calendula (Calendula officinalis), with its bright orange daisy-like flowers, is among the most versatile herbs in Western herbal medicine. Its petals contain antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and vulnerary properties, making it excellent for speeding tissue repair in wounds, burns, bruises, and various skin irritations. Calendula is also used internally for gastrointestinal inflammation (e.g., Crohn’s disease, colitis, gastritis).

Thuja (Thuja occidentalis), also called Arborvitae or white cedar, is a coniferous evergreen tree reaching about 33 ft (10 m). Known for potent antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic effects, its scale-like leaves (collected in summer) carry a distinct scent due to their volatile oil content (rich in thujone).

Safety & precautions

Internal Use & Pregnancy: Not advised during pregnancy when taken internally. Topical Use: Generally safe; rare cases of allergic skin reactions may occur. General Note: Calendula has a mild estrogenic effect and may influence menstruation.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid; in the 1930s, thuja was used to induce abortion. Prolonged Use: Potential kidney irritation from the thujone content. Essential Oil: Risk of toxicity if taken internally in significant amounts.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.