Tamanu Oil
Also known as: Calophyllum inophyllum, Calophyllum tacamahaca, Foraha oil, Tamanu nut oil
Effective Dosage
No established dose (insufficient research data)
What the Science Says
Tamanu oil is a plant-derived oil pressed from the nuts of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree, traditionally used in Pacific Island and Southeast Asian medicine for skin conditions. Lab studies suggest it contains compounds — including calophyllolide, inocalophyllin A, and inocalophyllin B — that may reduce inflammation and absorb some UV radiation, giving it a modest measured SPF of around 6–11 in vitro. Early research also explores its potential antibacterial properties and use as a carrier in topical drug delivery systems, though human clinical trial data remains very limited.
What It Doesn't Do
Not a replacement for sunscreen — its SPF is far too low to protect against UV damage on its own. No proven ability to cure or treat skin diseases in humans based on available clinical evidence. No evidence it works as an oral supplement. The antiviral HPV research involved a mixture of oils, not tamanu alone, so don't credit tamanu with those results.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Tamanu oil is a plant-derived oil pressed from the nuts of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree, traditionally used in Pacific Island and Southeast Asian medicine for skin conditions. Lab studies suggest it contains compounds — including calophyllolide, inocalophyllin A, and inocalophyllin B — that may reduce inflammation and absorb some UV radiation, giving it a modest measured SPF of around 6–11 in vitro. Early research also explores its potential antibacterial properties and use as a carrier in topical drug delivery systems, though human clinical trial data remains very limited.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose (insufficient research data)
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown for oral use. As a topical oil, skin penetration is assumed but not well characterized in the provided studies.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Documented cases of allergic contact dermatitis — patch test before widespread use
- Marketed as a natural sunscreen alternative, but its SPF is far too low (6–11) to replace commercial sunscreens
- Most evidence comes from lab (in vitro) or animal studies, not human clinical trials
- Antiviral claims in available research are based on oil mixtures, not tamanu oil alone
Products Containing Tamanu Oil
See how Tamanu Oil is used in these analyzed products:
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-09