Thujopsis dolabrata

Provenance: Aomori, Japan

About: Hiba wood is held in high regard throughout Japan. The wood of the hiba tree is used in construction, most notably in Japan’s sacred temples and shrines. Hiba also serves as a decorative tree that is planted around many of Japan’s places of worship. Hiba wood is water-resistant and so is aptly used in the construction of ofuro baths (wooden deep-soaking tubs), as well as in many of Japan’s traditional bathing accessories, such as oke buckets and benches. The wood of the hiba tree is resistant to rot and is also a natural insect repellent.

From an aromatherapy perspective, hiba essential oil is known to relax the mind with its cedar-like fragrance. Some studies have shown hiba essential oil to have positive effects when used topically on dry skin conditions such as eczema.