what is thujone

Thujone is a ketone and a monoterpene that occurs predominantly in two diastereomeric forms: (-)-α-thujone and (+)-β-thujone. It is found in a number of plants, such as arborvitae, Nootka cypress, some junipers, mugwort, oregano, common sage, tansy, and wormwood, usually as a mix of isomers in a 1:2 ratio. Thujone is reported to be toxic to brain, kidney, and liver cells and could cause convulsions if used in too high a dose. Despite its toxicity, some thujone-containing plants such as Thuja occidentalis are used in herbal medicine, mainly for their immune-system stimulating effects. Thuja is also used for the treatment of genital and anal warts. Thujone is best known as a chemical compound in the spirit absinthe, but it is unlikely to be responsible for absinthes alleged hallucinogenic effects.