Tamanu oil: the green gold of the Pacific that could transform your skin
Between modern science and island traditions, Tamanu oil attracts attention for its ability to accelerate healing, soothe inflammation, and limit bacterial proliferation. Extracted from the nuts of the calophyllum inophyllum, a tree found along tropical coastlines, this viscous, jade-colored oil contains unique compounds that current research is beginning to elucidate. Let's find out how and why this «vegetable butter» could become a must-have.
1. A coastal tree with multiple resources
Visit calophyllum inophyllum thrives on the shores of the South Pacific, Southeast Asia, and the Indian Ocean. Its leaves, bark, and especially its oily kernels have been used for centuries as the basis for remedies for burns and wounds.
2. From nut to elixir
After being harvested by hand and dried for four to eight weeks, the almonds are cold-pressed. This method prevents the degradation of bioactive compounds and preserves the essential unsaturated fatty acids that give the oil its dense texture and characteristic woody aroma.
3. Unique biochemical signature
- Lipid profile: high proportion of’oleic acid (≈ 40 %), acid linoleic (≈ 25 %) and significant presence of’calophyllic acid (rare fatty acid) giving high viscosity.
- Resinous fraction: calophyllolide, inophyllums and pyranocoumarins, chemical compounds involved in anti-inflammatory and healing activity.
- Natural antioxidants: tocopherols and polyphenols which protect skin lipids.
4. What recent studies say
Studies published between 2023 and 2025 confirm several effects:
- Accelerated healing effect : An emulsion containing 5% Tamanu oil reduced wound closure time by 35% by stimulating collagen synthesis.
- Antibacterial activity : minimum concentrations of 0.011 % were effective in combating Cutibacterium acnes: bacteria involved in the mechanism of acne and 0.025 % against epidermal staphylococcus responsible for skin infections.
- Antioxidant power : trapping free radicals and stabilizing collagen.
5. Dermatological applications
- Superficial wounds, minor burns, post-suture scars : apply locally twice a day, pure or diluted 1:4 in a light oil.
- Inflammatory acne and isolated pimples : combined antibacterial and anti-redness action.
- Chronic skin conditions (eczema, mild psoriasis) : relief from itching and improvement of the skin barrier.
- After-sun : limitation of erythema and oxidative stress induced by UV rays.
6. Precautions for use
Moderate comedogenic rating (2/5) : avoid prolonged use on very oily skin.
During application, temporary redness may occur: a skin test is recommended beforehand, especially for people who are allergic to nuts.
Store the bottle away from light and below 25°C to preserve the active ingredients.
7. How to choose a high-quality oil?
Prioritize:
- Origin clearly stated (Polynesia, Fiji, Vanuatu, etc.).
- Cold pressing without solvents ; no additives except for a natural antioxidant (tocopherol).
- Pure green color and a pronounced nutty aroma: indicators of a high resin content.
