Tamanu monoi oil brings together two Polynesian skin-care traditions in one bottle: monoi, the tiare-scented coconut oil of Tahiti, and tamanu, an oil pressed from the nut of the tamanu tree. This guide explains what tamanu is, how Monoi Tiki Tahiti Tamanu differs from the classic scents, and how to use it.
What is tamanu oil?
Tamanu oil is pressed from the nut of the tamanu tree (Calophyllum inophyllum). In Hawaii the same tree is called kamani. Across Polynesia, tamanu has been part of everyday skin care for generations, and it has a warm, nutty, slightly earthy smell that is very different from a floral oil.
What is tamanu monoi oil?
Monoi Tiki Tahiti Tamanu is made in Tahiti by Parfumerie Tiki, which has been making monoi since 1942. It starts with the same tiare-scented monoi base as the rest of the range, then adds cold-pressed tamanu oil:
- About 90% monoi coconut oil, the classic coconut and tiare base
- About 10% cold-pressed tamanu oil
- Tiare fragrance and a dash of vitamin E
- A dried tiare flower in every 4 fl oz (120 mL) glass bottle, the mark of a genuine Tiki monoi
Tamanu monoi vs classic monoi: what is the difference?
Every other Monoi Tiki Tahiti oil shares the same coconut and tiare base, so they feel the same on skin and only the fragrance changes. Tamanu is the one exception. The added tamanu oil gives it a richer feel and a warmer scent:
- Scent: a light tiare floral over coconut, with tamanu's warm, nutty, earthy note. If you find florals too strong, it is softer than Tiare or Pitate.
- Feel: richer than the classic scents, which is why many people keep it for dry areas.
- Base: still mostly coconut oil, so like all monoi it turns solid in cool rooms.
Not sure which you want? Our monoi scent guide compares every oil in the range.
How to use tamanu monoi oil
- Dry spots: smooth a little onto elbows, knees, heels and cuticles.
- After bathing: apply to damp skin and pat dry, so a small amount spreads further.
- In the bath: add a few drops to warm bath water.
- Patch-test first: try it on a small area before using it more widely.
- If it is solid: below 68°F (20°C) monoi turns solid. Stand the bottle in warm water for a few minutes to melt it. Why does monoi harden?
For more ideas, see how to use monoi oil on skin.
Pair it with Tiare Tamanu soap
There is a matching bar, Monoi Tiki Tahiti Tiare Tamanu Soap: Monoi Tiare Tahiti infused with cold-pressed tamanu oil, French-milled for a rich, creamy lather and a light tiare scent. Use the soap in the shower, then the oil on damp skin. Browse all bars in the Monoi Soap collection.
Two 4 oz monoi oils reach free U.S. shipping on orders of $30 or more, so Tamanu also pairs well with a classic scent like Vanille or Coco. Shop the full range in the Monoi Oil collection.
Buying genuine Tamanu monoi
All Monoi Tiki Tahiti products on this site are imported directly from Parfumerie Tiki by Hawaiian Resources Co. of Honolulu, the official U.S. importer, and ship from Hawaii. Look for the dried tiare flower in the bottle and read about the Monoi de Tahiti appellation of origin.
One reminder: monoi is a beauty oil, not a sunscreen. If you are spending time in the sun, use a sunscreen as directed on its label.
Tamanu monoi FAQ
What is tamanu called in Hawaii?
Kamani. It is the same tree, Calophyllum inophyllum.
How much tamanu is in Monoi Tiki Tahiti Tamanu?
About 10% cold-pressed tamanu oil in about 90% monoi coconut oil, per our product information.
What does tamanu monoi smell like?
A light tiare floral over coconut, with a warm, nutty, earthy note from the tamanu.
Is tamanu monoi oil the same as tamanu oil?
No. Pure tamanu oil is just the nut oil. Tamanu monoi is mostly tiare-scented coconut monoi with about 10% tamanu added, so it smells and feels lighter than pure tamanu oil.
Why is my tamanu monoi solid?
It is mostly coconut oil, which turns solid below 68°F (20°C). That is normal. Warm the bottle in water to melt it.
Keep reading: What is monoi oil? · Monoi oil scent guide · How to use monoi oil on skin · Monoi oil vs coconut oil · How to use monoi oil for hair