Dosage of thujones

Thujone measurement is an essential step for manufacturers and researchers working with aromatic plants and their derivatives. These compounds, belonging to the monoterpene family, are naturally present in certain plant species such as mugwort, sage, thuja, and tansy. Although they confer interesting sensory and pharmacological properties, thujones also present neurological toxicity when consumed in high doses. This is why their quantification is subject to strict regulatory frameworks, particularly in the sector of alcoholic beverages such as absinthe, but also in essential oils and food supplements.

Understanding Thujones and Their Implications

Thujones comprise two main isomers: α-thujone and β-thujone. These lipophilic molecules interact with the central nervous system and are known for their neurotoxic effects when present in excess. Historically associated with absinthe, they are now monitored in many plant and nutraceutical products.

Their presence is sought for both toxicological and regulatory reasons, but also to guarantee the quality and traceability of plant extracts used in formulations. Accurate measurement of levels ensures the compliance of finished products, while controlling the health risks associated with their consumption.

Analytical methods for the determination of thujones

The determination of thujones is mainly based on gas chromatography techniques. Two methods are commonly used:

• GC-FID (gas chromatography with flame ionization detection), allowing reliable and reproducible quantification of monoterpenes.
• GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry), offering precise identification of isomers and increased sensitivity, suitable for complex matrices.

These analytical approaches guarantee a clear separation of volatile compounds and an accurate measurement of contents, even at low concentrations. They are carried out under standardized conditions to meet regulatory requirements and ensure comparability of results between laboratories.

Sectors concerned by the analysis of thujones

The dosage of thujones is particularly relevant in several industrial sectors:

• Nutraceutical industry: control of plant extracts used in food supplements to verify their safety and regulatory compliance.
• Aromatic and medicinal plants: qualitative and quantitative monitoring of essential oils, hydroalcoholic extracts and macerates.
• Alcoholic beverages: control of thujone levels in absinthe, liqueurs or other spirits derived from mugwort or sage.
• Pharmaceutical and herbal industry: mastery of active ingredients for the development of therapeutic or traditional products.

This diversity of applications demonstrates the importance of analytical control to secure formulations and guarantee the conformity of marketed products.

Typically analyzed matrices

Thujones can be quantified in a wide variety of matrices:

• Essential oils from sage, thuja or mugwort
• Plant extracts intended for food supplements
• Alcoholic drinks such as absinthe or aromatic liqueurs
• Herbal pharmaceutical and cosmetic products

Each matrix presents specific analytical challenges, requiring technical expertise and adapted methods to obtain reliable results.

A strict regulatory framework

European regulations set specific thresholds for thujone levels in food and beverages. For example, Directive 2008/84/EC establishes maximum limits for thujones in alcoholic beverages and flavored foods. These standards aim to protect consumers from neurotoxic effects and to harmonize industrial practices.

For manufacturers and distributors, compliance with these limits is a major compliance issue, determining the marketing of products. The use of specialized laboratories makes it possible to obtain results that are validated and recognized by the authorities.

YesWeLab support for your thujone analyses

At YesWeLab, we offer our expertise and network of partner laboratories to assist you with thujone assays. Our partners are carefully selected based on their accreditations (ISO 17025, COFRAC) and their mastery of analytical techniques suited to your matrices.

Thanks to our digital platform, you can easily submit your samples, track your analyses, and receive your results securely. Our scientific teams are committed to meeting your specific needs with precision and responsiveness, advising you on the most appropriate methods and ensuring optimized turnaround times.

Many manufacturers, distributors, and design offices already trust us to secure their analytical projects. Contact our team to learn more or get a personalized quote for your thujone analyses.

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