Thujaplicin

Thujaplicins (isopropyl cycloheptatrienolones) are series of related chemical substances discovered in the 1930s and isolated from Thuja plicata (western red cedar tree).[1] The three compounds are α-thujaplicin, β-thujaplicin (hinokitiol), and γ-thujaplicin. They are known for potent anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties[2]. They are also known to be potent antioxidants[3].

Red cedar was used for many years by the first nations people for its medicinal benefits in a variety of conditions.

References

  1. ^ Erdtman, Holger; Gripenberg, Jarl (1948). "Antibiotic substances from the heart wood of Thuja plicata". Nature 161 (4097): 719. doi:10.1038/161719a0. 
  2. ^ Chedgy, Russell et al. Effects of leaching on fungal growth and decay of Western red cedar (Thuja plicata). Canadian Journal of Microbiology 55(5): 578-586, 2009, DOI: 10.1139/W08-161
  3. ^ Chedgy, Russell. Secondary metabolites of Western red cedar (Thuja plicata): their biotechnological applications and role in conferring natural durability. LAP Lambert Academic Publishing, 2010, ISBN-10: 3838346610, ISBN-13: 978-3838346618