Tamanu Oil

tamanu nut tree

Tamanu oil is extracted from seeds that grow on a tropical evergreen called a tamanu nut tree. Known for promoting wound healing, it also has some antibacterial properties, particularly against the bacteria associated with acne.

• Comedogenic Rating: 1
• Antibacterial and anti inflammatory
• Supports wound healing
• Supports collagen production
• Moisturizing

People with a tree nut allergy should avoid tamanu oil.

Research

• A 2015 study found the oil exhibited high antibacterial and wound-healing activity against bacterial strains involved in acne, including Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) and Propionibacterium granulosum (P. granulosum).
• The oil's ability to promote collagen and GAG production also plays a role in anti-aging and skin regeneration. The oil is rich in fatty acids, which can help keep skin moisturized, and contains antioxidants, which fight against damage from free radicals.
• A 2009 in-vitro study found that the oil was able to absorb UV light and inhibit 85 percent of the DNA damage induced by UV radiation.