Fatty Acid Composition
Oleic Acid (C18:1)
Properties: A monounsaturated fatty acid.
Clinical Relevance: Known for its moisturizing properties and ability to penetrate the skin effectively, aiding in the delivery of other active ingredients.
Linoleic Acid (C18:2)
Properties: A polyunsaturated fatty acid.
Clinical Relevance: Essential for maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier, reducing inflammation, and promoting wound healing. It helps to regulate moisture levels and is beneficial for treating acne.
Stearic Acid (C18:0)
Properties: A saturated fatty acid.
Clinical Relevance: Provides emollient properties, helping to soften and smooth the skin. It also has cleansing properties, making it useful in skin care formulations.
Palmitic Acid (C16:0)
Properties: A saturated fatty acid.
Clinical Relevance: Commonly found in skin lipids, it helps to restore skin’s barrier function and provides moisturizing and smoothing effects.
Unique Compounds in Tamanu Oil
Calophyllolide
Properties: A coumarin derivative.
Clinical Relevance: Exhibits strong anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It has been shown to promote tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for wound healing and skin repair.
Inophyllum
Properties: A series of neoflavonoids.
Clinical Relevance: Known for their anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds help in protecting the skin against bacterial infections and reduce inflammation in conditions like acne and eczema.
Friedelin
Properties: A triterpenoid.
Clinical Relevance: Has astringent and skin conditioning properties. It contributes to the overall healing and regenerative capabilities of the oil.
Antioxidants
Properties: Includes various phenolic compounds.
Clinical Relevance: Provides protection against oxidative stress and free radical damage. This helps in preventing premature aging and maintaining overall skin health.
Additional Properties
Antimicrobial Activity
Components: A combination of fatty acids and unique compounds like calophyllolide and inophyllum.
Clinical Relevance: Effective against a range of bacteria and fungi, making it useful for treating skin infections and promoting healthy skin microbiota.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Components: Calophyllolide, inophyllum, and certain fatty acids.
Clinical Relevance: Reduces inflammation and soothes irritated skin. This is beneficial for conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
Wound Healing and Regenerative Properties
Components: Calophyllolide, friedelin, and fatty acids.
Clinical Relevance: Promotes tissue regeneration and accelerates the healing of wounds, cuts, and scars. It aids in collagen synthesis and new tissue formation.
Summary
Tamanu oil is a potent natural remedy with a rich composition of fatty acids, unique compounds, and antioxidants that provide significant clinical benefits. Its oleic and linoleic acid content offers excellent moisturizing and skin barrier repair properties, while calophyllolide and inophyllum contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing capabilities. The presence of antioxidants further enhances its protective effects against oxidative stress, making tamanu oil a valuable ingredient in modern skincare and therapeutic formulations.
