Compound Monograph
alpha-Thujone
alpha-Thujone is a monoterpene ketone found in wormwood, sage and related plants, best known as a constituent of absinthe.
Classification
alpha-Thujone is a monoterpene ketone, part of the terpenoids class. The largest class of plant compounds, built from five-carbon isoprene units — the essential-oil aromatics, resins, bitter principles, saponins, and plant sterols.
Where Does It Come From? (4)
alpha-Thujone is a naturally occurring monoterpene ketone, found in Wormwood, Mugwort, Sage and 1 other source. It is flagged as toxic.
Research & Evidence
alpha-Thujone is a monoterpene ketone found in wormwood, sage, mugwort and tansy, and it is the constituent historically associated with absinthe. It acts on the central nervous system as a GABA-A receptor antagonist, which underlies its convulsant potential at high doses. Modern analysis has shown that traditional absinthe contained far less thujone than once believed, and most of the drink’s effects are attributable to its high alcohol content.
Toxicity & Safety
Thujone is toxic in quantity: high exposure can cause restlessness, muscle spasms and seizures through its action on GABA-A receptors. For this reason the thujone content of foods and beverages is legally limited in many countries. The small amounts present in culinary herbs such as sage are not a concern in normal cooking, but thujone-rich essential oils and prolonged high-dose use of wormwood preparations should be avoided.