Tamanu Oil

Tamanu Oil Medicine

Shannon Garity
3 minute read

Listen to Article
Audio generated by DropInBlog's Blog Voice AI™ may have slight pronunciation nuances. Learn more

🌿 Tamanu (Foraha): The Sacred Oil of the Sea

Used for centuries across Polynesia, Madagascar, and Southeast Asia, Tamanu oil — also known as Foraha or Kamani — is a thick, green elixir pressed from the nut of the Calophyllum inophyllum tree. It's been revered for its:

  • Deep skin-rejuvenating properties

  • Natural wound-healing and scar-fading powers

  • Energetic grounding and spiritual protection

This coastal tree thrives where ocean meets land, withstanding salt, wind, and sun — embodying resilience, protection, and renewal. Its oil carries that same spirit.

🌺 Cultural Roots & Sacred Uses

Tamanu oil is more than just skincare — it's a sacred gift:

  • In Polynesia, it was known as a “sacred oil,” used for burns, sun damage, and spiritual healing

  • In Madagascar (Foraha), it was applied for rheumatism, wounds, and skin ailments

  • In Melanesia, it was massaged into skin for energetic protection

  • In Hawaii (Kamani), it was revered for both its healing oil and wood — used in canoe-making and carving

Its presence near temples and sacred sites speaks to its role as a guardian tree, both physically and spiritually.

🧪 The Extraction Process

Crafted with patience and intention, Tamanu oil undergoes a traditional, slow extraction:

  • Harvested by hand after nuts naturally fall

  • Sun-dried for weeks, allowing compounds to activate

  • Cold-pressed to preserve nutrients and bioactives

  • Settled and gently filtered, keeping its rich, green potency intact

👉 It takes 100 kg of fruit to yield just 5 kg of oil, making this one of the most precious botanical oils on Earth.

🔬 Key Compounds in Tamanu Oil

Tamanu’s powerful effects come from its rare mix of:

  • Caloophyllolide – anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial

  • Inophyllum A, B, C, E – antioxidants with antiviral potential

  • Oleic Acid (Omega-9) – supports elasticity and skin regeneration

  • Linoleic Acid (Omega-6) – balances oily skin and restores barrier

  • Lactones & Polyphenols – antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-aging

  • Phytosterols & Resins – repair skin and protect against stressors

✨ Skin Benefits

Tamanu oil supports:

  • Wound & scar healing – including acne scars and stretch marks

  • Acne relief – antibacterial and gentle on skin

  • Eczema & psoriasis – soothes inflammation and itchiness

  • Anti-aging – rich in antioxidants to smooth fine lines

  • Sun recovery – calms burns and offers natural UV protection (SPF ~18–22)

💇‍♀️ Hair & Scalp Care

  • Moisturizes dry scalp/reduces dandruff

  • Supports healthy hair growth / soothes irritation

Massage a few drops into the scalp or add to shampoo for best results.

🌿 Holistic & Therapeutic Use

  • Joint and muscle relief – traditionally used for inflammation and circulation

  • Antifungal action – helps with athlete’s foot, ringworm, and nail fungus

  • Bug bites & stings – reduces swelling, itching, and speeds repair

  • Energetic clearing – used in rituals for grounding, anointing, and spiritual protection

⚠️ Usage Tips

  • Safe for most skin types, but always patch test first

  • Can be used neat or diluted with a carrier oil

  • Not for internal use

  • Use caution with tree nut allergies

🌱 Sustainability Matters

Because it’s slow to produce and in high demand, always choose:

  • Cold-pressed, unrefined oil

  • Sustainably and ethically sourced

  • Community-supported or fair trade suppliers

Miracle Botanicals offers farmed Foraha oil from Vietnam, lovingly sourced and bottled to preserve the integrity of this sacred plant.


Tamanu oil isn’t just skincare—it’s a living tradition, a bridge to ancestral wisdom, and a reminder that nature truly heals, body and soul.

🌊 Want to explore the full story of this special oil?
Click here to read the complete deep dive →

Tamanu Oil - Foraha - Kamani - Organic (Calophyllum Inophyllum)

Tamanu Oil - Foraha - Kamani - Organic (Calophyllum Inophyllum)

$15.97

Botanical Name: Calophyllum Inophyllum Plant Part: Nut Method of Extraction: Cold Pressed, Unfiltered Country of Origin: Vietnam Color/Consistency: Green and Somewhat Thick with Small White Fat Granules that Melt Immediately into the Skin Aroma: Sweet, Earthy, Nutty … read more

« Back to Blog