Tamanu is the Polynesian name for Calophyllum inophyllum, which means 'the tree of thousand virtues'
Tamanu is the Polynesian name for Calophyllum inophyllum, which means the tree of thousand virtues. This plant is
considered to be the sacred tree of Royal Marae and enjoys a very special place in the Maori culture. It is used by the native
Vahine to protect their childrens skin.
The tree is also scattered throughout the Worry River, especially in Madagascar, and has been identified in the Mangrove
swamp, where it develops aerial roots and with flowers with immense fragrance.
The oils quality comes from its origin and preparation. The nuts are exclusively gathered on the beaches, then dried up in the
sun. The oil is obtained from first cold press and then filtration. Its greenish to clear brown color comes from the presence of a
specific resin. This resin contains mainly phenolenic compounds such as:
Biflavonoids, neoflavonoids, xanthones, trepenoids.
Technical Information :
Appearance (20°C) Viscous liquid
Color Green to Brown
Odor Aromatic
Refractive Index n200 1.470 1.487
Saponification value 190-210 mgKOH/g
Acid value 28 - 40
Peroxide value < 10 meq/1000
gIodine value 80 -100 gl2/100g
Palmitic acid C 16 : 0 12 - 20 %
Stearic acid C 18 : 0 8 - 20 %
Oleic acid C 18 : 1 20 - 40 %
Linoleic acid C 18 : 2 25 - 50 %
Glycolipids about 6 % of the oil
about 1.5 % of phospholipids
Properties:
Used in frictions or massages on painful joints or in cases of pains, sciatica and rheumatism, Tamanu oil can help alleviate pain
while also treating the skin. Its emollient properties and healing benefits also make it ideal to be used in compresses for the
treatment of wounds and scars.
Skin and Hair Applications:
Tamanu oil is endowed with smoothing, moisturizing, regenerative, purifying and anti-radical properties.
Cosmetic Applications:
Repair balms and lotions (aftershave, post-depilatory or after-sun products), anti-aging serums and hand creams, night creams,
dry and damaged skin care, lip balms, reparative nail care, conditioning and repair masks and lotions for dry and damaged hair
