Arborvitae Arborvitae (Canada)

Why Canada?

The Giant Arborvitae tree is native to the temperate rainforest of the Pacific Northwest.

How does it work?

The Arborvitae tree is a hardy, evergreen tree also known as the Western Redcedar. As a species of Thuja, however, Arborvitae actually comes from the cypress family, not the cedar family. Arborvitae trees can grow up to 230 feet (70 m) tall. Some trees can live well over a thousand years, with the oldest having survived for 1460 years. Arborvitae repel insects, including termites.

Native Americans have used Arborvitae trees for generations. Historically, the wood was used for building vessels, totem poles, and homes. The roots and bark could be used to make other items like baskets, rope, and twine. The Western Redcedar was ideal for these kinds of projects due to its chemical makeup and ability to repels insects, minimizing damage and maximizing preservation.

The essential oil is produced through steam distillation of the wood. The sawdust and residual materials of the wood from lumber processing are used to produce the oil, which ensures that no trees are cut unnecessarily for only oil production purposes.

Environmental Stewardship and Sustainable Sourcing

The timber industry has been sourcing Arborvitae for decades. The Arborvitae timber industry is highly managed and sustainable, but unfortunately, in the past, the leftover waste product, i.e. sawdust, was burned. Now, however, through partnering with the industry, that sawdust is distilled into our Arborvitae essential oil. We are able to use this residual material for a beautiful purpose—sustainably, responsibly providing you with this essential oil for many years to come.