Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Oriental arborvitae (Platycladus orientalis), also known as Chinese thuja or biota, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is commonly used for a variety of health concerns, including as a remedy for infections, particularly those believed to be caused by “external pathogens,” a concept that can include viral infections. The seeds (called “Baiziren”) and leaves are sometimes included in herbal formulas intended to support the body’s defenses against respiratory illnesses and other infectious diseases. Traditional texts suggest that it has properties such as clearing heat, detoxifying, and resolving phlegm, which are interpreted in modern times as possible antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory actions.

However, scientific validation for the use of oriental arborvitae specifically against viral infections is limited. Some laboratory studies have found that extracts from the plant exhibit modest antimicrobial or antiviral activity, but these studies are preliminary and mostly performed in vitro (in the lab, not in living organisms). There are no robust clinical trials demonstrating clear efficacy in treating viral infections in humans. Thus, while the use of oriental arborvitae for infections is well-supported by tradition and historical practice—particularly in East Asia—the scientific evidence is not strong, and the rating reflects a reliance on traditional rather than evidence-based medicine for this purpose.

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