Compound Monograph
Beta-thujone
Beta-thujone is a monoterpene ketone from wormwood, sage and thuja, notable as the constituent of absinthe historically blamed for its effects.
Sources · 4
Where Does It Come From?
Beta-thujone is a naturally occurring monoterpene (ketone), found in Wormwood, Sage, Thuja / white cedar and 1 other source. It is flagged as toxic.
Principal source Wormwood Artemisia absinthium Herb monograph → 
Source Mugwort Artemisia vulgaris Herb monograph → 
Source Sage Salvia officinalis Herb monograph → Concentration
Content by Source
Concentrations not reported. No percent-dry-weight or mg/g figures have been published for this compound in its source plants.
Research & Evidence
Beta-thujone is one of the two thujone isomers, a bicyclic monoterpene ketone found in wormwood, common sage, tansy and thuja. It is best known as a component of wormwood oil and therefore of absinthe, whose reputation for distinctive effects was historically attributed to thujone. It acts as an antagonist at GABA-A receptors, which underlies its convulsant potential at high doses.
Toxicity & Safety
Thujone is toxic in sufficient quantity: by blocking inhibitory GABA-A signaling it can cause restlessness, muscle spasms and, at high doses, seizures. For this reason the thujone content of foods and alcoholic drinks is legally limited, and wormwood and sage essential oils are not recommended for internal use, particularly during pregnancy. Ordinary culinary use of sage provides only trace amounts.
