Juniper Tar

Abstract: Juniper tar (cade oil) is distilled from the branches and wood of Juniperus oxycedrus. It contains etheric oils, triterpene and phenols, used for many purposes in folk medicine. The authors report a case of a previously healthy new born treated with a topical application of Juniperus oxycedrus for atopic dermatosis The poisoning caused convulsions, collapsus, acute pulmonary oedema, renal failure and hepatotoxicity. The newborn survived after supportive and symptomatic treatment, and discharged in a good condition on the eleventh day of hospitalisation in intensive care unit.

Abstract: Tar has been used throughout history for numerous purposes; from sealing the hulls of ships to sealing roofs of dwellings and even for medical purposes. Produced by destructive distillation, commonly used tars are prepared from coal and wood. Coal tar, juniper tar, and pine tar are used for various medical purposes as described in the article. Also presented are the various characteristics and uses of each tar, along with commercial products and numerous compounding formulas. Techniques used to compound with tars are also presented.

Abstract: Disclosed is a compound essence oil for curing arthralgia and myalgia, which comprises (by weight ratio) Eucalyptus oil 0.3-1.7%, tea essence oil 0.3-1.7%, juniper tar essence oil 0.7-3.3%, lavandula angustifolia essence oil 0.7-3.3%, fennel essence oil 0.7-3.3%, thyme oil 0.2-1.8%, and balancing grape seed oil.

Abstract: Introduction: Juniper tar "Cade oil" is distilled from the branches of Juniperus oxycedrus. Despite its known toxicity and which is linked to a phenol content, this oil continues to be used in traditional medicine. Materials and methods: We report the case of severe systemic toxicity after local administration of cade oil in an infant. Observation: This is a 12 month old infant; the youngest of three siblings from a well-followed pregnancy, vaginal delivery, well vaccinated according to the national immunization program, with no particular pathological history. Hospitalized in the pediatric resuscitation department for respiratory and neurological distress following poisoning with cade oil, applied locally to the wrists, elbows forehead and head. Conclusion: Juniper tar (cade oil) is one of the essential oils most used in traditional Moroccan medicine. Several cases of intoxication have been recognized in the literature.