Last verified: 17 days ago
Tamanu Oil
Also known as: Calophyllum inophyllum, Calophyllum tacamahaca, Foraha oil, Kamani oil, Nut oil of Calophyllum
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Plant-derived skin oil with mild UV protection and anti-inflammatory properties. Evidence is mostly lab-based.
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What it does
Tamanu oil is a thick, green vegetable oil pressed from the nuts of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree, native to tropical regions including the South Pacific. Lab studies suggest it contains...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose (insufficient research data)
What the Science Says
Tamanu oil is a thick, green vegetable oil pressed from the nuts of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree, native to tropical regions including the South Pacific. Lab studies suggest it contains compounds — particularly calophyllolide and related molecules — that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in skin and immune cells. It also shows a modest SPF value (around 6–11 in vitro), making it a minor UV absorber, though far below the protection level of commercial sunscreens.
What It Doesn't Do
Not a replacement for sunscreen — its SPF is too low to protect against sunburn. No clinical trial evidence it heals wounds, scars, or skin conditions on its own. No proven oral health benefits. The antiviral research showing HPV-related effects used tamanu as part of a multi-oil blend, not tamanu alone.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Provides mild UV absorption (SPF ~6–11 in vitro) due to calophyllolide content, but is not a sunscreen replacement.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Topical application; no standardized dose established
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Compounds in tamanu oil reduce inflammatory markers in lab models of UV-damaged and immune-stimulated skin cells.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
When combined with certain essential oils, tamanu oil extends protection time against stable fly bites in human volunteers.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 0.25–2.0 mg/cm² topical (in combination with essential oils)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — all provided studies involve topical use only. No oral absorption data available from the provided research.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Documented cases of allergic contact dermatitis from tamanu oil — patch test before widespread use
- Marketed SPF claims are misleading — in vivo SPF is far lower than some brands suggest
- Most evidence comes from lab (cell and test tube) studies, not human clinical trials
- Often sold in blends where tamanu's individual contribution is unclear
Products Containing Tamanu Oil
See how Tamanu Oil is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Tamanu Oil do?
Plant-derived skin oil with mild UV protection and anti-inflammatory properties. Evidence is mostly lab-based.
What is the effective dose of Tamanu Oil?
No established dose (insufficient research data)
Is Tamanu Oil safe?
Documented cases of allergic contact dermatitis from tamanu oil — patch test before widespread use
What doesn't Tamanu Oil do?
Not a replacement for sunscreen — its SPF is too low to protect against sunburn.
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: 2026-05-25