Thuja has stimulant, astringent, vermifuge, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-fungal, diuretic, emmenogogue, expectorant, anthelmintic, astringent, anti-catarrhal, anti-pyretic and anti-irritant properties.

American Indians used Thuja leaf tea for headaches, colds, chronic cough and in steam baths for fever, rheumatism, arthritis, congestion and gout.