Tamanu Oil
Calming, Repairing, and Nourishing Skin Care
Tamanu Oil, Calophyllum inophyllum, a powerhouse healing oil for damaged, irritated, or problem skin, is one of the most extraordinary botanical oils used in skincare. Thick, green, and nutrient-dense, this rich oil has been treasured for centuries throughout the South Pacific for its remarkable ability to support skin repair and renewal. Despite its richness, tamanu absorbs beautifully, feels non-greasy, and is considered non-comedogenic—making it suitable even for oily or acne-prone skin.
Tamanu’s therapeutic reputation is supported by both traditional use and modern research. Its unique fatty acid profile—including calophyllic acid—combined with natural antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, gives it an exceptional ability to soothe, repair, and restore compromised skin.
Tamanu oil is known for its ability to support the skin’s natural healing processes, which has been demonstrated in clinical studies.
Key Skin Benefits of Tamanu Oil
- Calms inflammation and irritation, easing discomfort from eczema, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, and general redness.
- Supports healthy skin regeneration by encouraging new tissue formation—useful for healing minor cuts, burns, rashes, and sun damage.
- Helps fade scars, stretch marks, and dark spots by promoting renewal and improving overall skin tone and texture.
- Deeply nourishes and hydrates with essential fatty acids, helping maintain moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and soften dry or rough areas.
- Offers antimicrobial and antifungal support, helping combat acne-causing bacteria and other surface-level skin concerns.
- Provides antioxidant protection, helping shield skin from environmental stressors that contribute to aging.
- Reduces puffiness, especially around the eyes, thanks to naturally occurring anti-inflammatory compounds.
- Soothes itchiness and irritation, providing comfort for dry, flaky, or reactive skin conditions.
Even a small amount goes a long way due to its richness and potency.
Tamanu’s effectiveness comes from its naturally rich composition. The oil combines a unique blend of deeply moisturizing fatty acids, antibacterial and antifungal compounds, and a rare anti-inflammatory fatty acid called calophyllic acid, which contributes to its healing reputation.
These bioactive components work together to calm irritation, support tissue regeneration, and nourish compromised skin, making tamanu one of the most restorative oils available.
The oil’s earthy, nutty aroma and thick texture are signs of its high quality and concentrated bioactive content.
In hair care, tamanu oil is a great conditioning treatment. It nourishes the scalp, moisturizes the hair shaft, and helps manage dandruff to promote luxuriant and beautiful hair.
Key Hair & Scalp Benefits of Tamanu Oil
- Moisturizes and nourishes the hair shaft to moisturize, reduce frizz, and improve elasticity for softer and more manageable hair.
- Promotes a healthy environment for hair growth by nourishing the scalp and hair follicles and stimulating blood flow to the scalp.
- Strengthens hair, helping to reduce breakage and split ends.
- Comforts an itchy, flaky, or irritated scalp with its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties—ideal for dandruff and similar scalp issues.
- Protects against damage, creating a protective barrier on the hair shaft, shielding it from environmental stressors.
- Enhances softness and shine by smoothing the hair's surface to bring out a natural, healthy shine and bounce.
A Precious, Labor-Intensive Oil
Tamanu is a rare and costly oil because of its time-intensive processing. The seeds must dry for 1–2 months before pressing, and it takes approximately 220 pounds (100 kg) of fruit to produce just 11 pounds (5 kg) of oil.
Our USDA Certified Organic virgin tamanu oil is cold-pressed from the nut kernel of the Calophyllum inophyllum plant. This unrefined oil has not been bleached or deodorized and retains a vibrant green color and characteristic aroma.
Allergy Alert: Although tamanu oil comes from the seeds of the tree, it is classified as a nut tree. So be mindful if you are allergic to tree nuts. The oil is meant for EXTERNAL use only. A patch test is recommended before full use.
Learn More Blog: The Wonders of Tamanu Oil
