What are the Skincare Benefits of Tamanu?

The health and appearance of our skin have long been considered an important factor in how others perceive us. Throughout history, skincare has been used as a status symbol and a genuine medical necessity. And today, taking care of our skin is no less important - though we usually choose to do this for our own satisfaction rather than to impress others!

Many skincare fads have come and gone, but there are a few that have stood the test of time. From hemp and rosehip to aloe vera and witch hazel, everyone is familiar with a few staple skincare ingredients. But what about Tamanu? What do you know about this ancient tropical evergreen-turned-skincare favourite?

What is Tamanu?

Tamanu (Calophyllum inophyllum) is a large, evergreen plant that grows in many tropical areas including parts of Africa, Asia, and Australia. It grows flowers and fruits that have been used in traditional medicine in Polynesian and other cultures while its wood is an important asset in shipbuilding.

The fruit of the tamanu tree can be extremely poisonous (so much so that it can be used as rat poison); however, the nut found within this fruit is the source of an impressive skincare ingredient: Tamanu oil.

Once dried out, the nut of the tamanu tree can be cracked open to reveal an oil-laden kernel. These kernels have been processed by many societies - from Polynesia to Africa - for their oil, which is traditionally used as a moisturiser, hair tonic, and even an acne treatment!

The Skincare Credentials of Tamanu

Tamanu oil has been found to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties which may make it a valuable addition to various skincare formulations. So, let’s take a closer look at each of these properties and how they could be beneficial for a number of skincare complaints.

As an aid for treating acne and infection

The antimicrobial potential of tamanu oil may make it useful in controlling acne-prone skin. While their role is not truly understood, microorganisms are believed to play a role in acne, making antimicrobial ingredients a potentially helpful addition to your skincare routine.

Some research indicates that tamanu oil may be effective at inhibiting the growth of certain bacteria associated with acne, while its anti-inflammatory potential may be beneficial for soothing painful flare-ups.

The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of tamanu oil may also be effective at preventing infection from some bacteria and fungi.

As a booster for wound healing

Tamanu oil has also been studied for its wound-healing abilities, which may make it beneficial in reducing the appearance of acne scars and other blemishes. The skin regeneration properties of tamanu are likely to come from its ability to boost the production of collagen and glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) - polysaccharides that are essential for maintaining collagen and elastin levels.

In addition to boosting wound healing, these properties may also help to smooth fine lines and wrinkles to promote firmer, younger-looking skin!

To soothe eczema and dry skin

Like many plant-sourced oils, tamanu oil is deeply moisturising. This is thanks to its abundance of fatty acids, of which it boasts more than many other oils. Specifically, tamanu oil is particularly high in both oleic and linoleic fatty acids, which are renowned for their moisturising ability.

As such, tamanu makes a great moisturiser for all skin types. But its potential doesn’t end there. Some evidence indicates that tamanu oil may also benefit eczema-prone skin, thanks to its moisturising ability paired with its anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing potential. However, more research is needed to better understand the potential role of tamanu in the management of eczema.

What about the other benefits of Tamanu Oil?

As we mentioned earlier, indigenous societies in Polynesia and parts of Africa also traditionally use tamanu oil as a haircare ingredient. Specifically, anecdotal reports indicate that it may help to promote hair growth and enhance hair strength. However, more scientific evidence is needed to confirm these benefits.

Tamanu oil is a key ingredient in a wide range of skincare products around the world. From face moisturisers and eye creams to body lotions, you may well have been applying tamanu oil without realising it!

But we champion this incredible ingredient in our range of high-quality CBD Skincare products. It is one of our carefully selected skincare ingredients chosen to boost the potential of pure CBD and hemp extracts to leave you looking radiant and youthful.

So, if you want to discover the skincare potential of Tamanu Oil for yourself, browse our Green Therapy CBD skincare range today!