Thujone is found in a number of plants, such as arborvitae (genus Thuja, hence the derivation of the name), Nootka Cypress, some junipers, mugwort, oregano, common sage, tansy and wormwood, most notably grand wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), usually as a mix of isomers in a 1:2 ratio. It is also found in various species of mentha (mint).
Thujone is a GABA-A receptor antagonist. By inhibiting GABA receptor activation, neurons may fire more easily which can cause muscle spasms and convulsions. Thujone is also a 5-HT-3 antagonist. Alpha-thujone was metabolized quickly in the liver.
Thujone is reported to be toxic to both brain and liver cells and could cause convulsions if used in too high a dose. Other thujone-containing plants such as the tree Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) are used in herbal medicine, mainly for their immune-system stimulating effects. Side-effects from the essential oil of this plant include anxiety and sleeplessness, which confirms the central nervous system effects of thujone.
Sage and sage oil can be up to 50% thujone.
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