Coconut, jojoba, rosehip, and argan oils — you have heard all about these oils and their wonders. But, did you know that there’s another oil that’s every bit as worthy as the above oils but has been quietly flying under the radar?
Let us introduce you to tamanu oil.
What’s Tamanu Oil?
Tamanu oil is extracted from the seeds of the tamanu nut tree, a tropical evergreen that’s mostly native to Southeast Asia. Steeped in history, tamanu oil — and other parts of the tree — has been used medicinally for hundreds of years by Asian, African, Polynesian, and Pacific Island cultures. If you’re wondering, the oil is thick in consistency and has a very distinctive nutty scent.
Benefits of Tamanu Oil for the Skin
Of course, tamanu oil’s benefits aren’t just limited to the skin. However, many people would vouch for its effectiveness in this regard.
- Moisturizing
The oil has high fatty acids — both oleic and linoleic — content, which is extremely moisturizing for the skin and perfect for skin dryness.
- Has antibacterial properties
Studies have shown that the oil has rich antibacterial properties that work well against bacterial strains associated with acne — P. acnes and P. granulosum. Together with its anti-inflammatory properties, the oil helps to treat and heal inflamed acne.
- Promote skin regeneration and wound healing
The oil has been shown to promote skin proliferation as well as the production of collagen and glycosaminoglycan (GAG). Both collagen and GAG are vital for wound and scar healing.
- Rich in antioxidants
Packed full of powerful antioxidants to fight against damage caused by free radicals brought by exposure to sun and pollution.
- Brimming with anti-inflammatory properties
It’s thought that tamanu oil is also excellent for inflammatory skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, and more as it contains calophyllolide. This is an organic compound that’s believed to offer anti-inflammatory effects rather similar to that of hydrocortisone.
Tamanu Oil Blend for Eczema
If you’re suffering from eczema and other inflammatory conditions, give this recipe a try. Mix four teaspoons of tamanu oil with four drops of lavender essential oil and two drops of tea tree essential oils. Apply on the face and rinse after a few minutes.
Tamanu Oil Blend for Scar Healing
To harness tamanu oil’s ability to diminish the appearance of scars, this is the blend you want to try. Add 10 teaspoons of tamanu oil to five drops of each of the following essential oils: lavender, frankincense, cedarwood, and jasmine. Gently apply to the affected area and you should see a fading of the scars and blemishes in three months.
Tamanu Oil Blend for Hair Care
Not just for the skin, tamanu oil is also great to smooth unruly locks. Just warm two drops of the oil between your palms and run your fingers through the ends of your hair. For a healthy scalp, you can also combine a tablespoon of the oil with three drops each of thyme and cedarwood essential oils. Massage deeply and rinse after a couple of hours.
Are you ready to give tamanu — and all of its wondrous benefits — a try?
