Inophyllum Seed Oil
Also known as: Calophyllum inophyllum L., Tamanu oil, Kamani oil, Alexandrian laurel oil, Calophyllum inophyllum
Overview
Calophyllum inophyllum, commonly known as Tamanu oil, is a botanical oil derived from the cold-pressed seeds of the Calophyllum inophyllum tropical tree. It is primarily used topically for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as well as its antioxidant effects. The oil contains various bioactive compounds, including calophyllolide, inophyllums, and calanolides. Preclinical studies have demonstrated strong antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. While human trials are limited and methodologically weak, they suggest potential benefits for skin health. The oil's fatty acid composition, rich in oleic and linoleic acids, also suggests potential metabolic benefits, though direct evidence is lacking. Further research is needed to validate these effects in human clinical trials and to establish safe oral dosage guidelines.
Benefits
Inophyllum Seed Oil exhibits several evidence-based benefits, primarily related to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In vitro studies show it neutralizes free radicals with 2-3 times higher activity compared to base oils in DPPH assays. It also reduces COX-2/PGE2 pathways in cell models, indicating anti-inflammatory action. Additionally, it demonstrates antimicrobial effects against *S. aureus* with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.1-0.5 mg/mL. Animal models suggest it enhances fibroblast migration, potentially aiding wound healing. While mechanistically plausible for conditions like atopic dermatitis, these benefits are largely unproven in rigorous human clinical trials. The oleic and linoleic acid content suggests potential lipid modulation, but direct clinical evidence is needed.
How it works
Inophyllum Seed Oil exerts its effects through several key pathways. Its anti-inflammatory action is linked to NF-κB suppression. The oil's pyranocoumarins contribute to free radical scavenging, providing antioxidant benefits. At the molecular level, calanolides inhibit DNA gyrase, contributing to its antimicrobial properties, while inophyllums downregulate COX-2, further reducing inflammation. Topical application allows for good skin penetration, and nanoemulsions can enhance delivery. However, there is currently no human pharmacokinetic data available for oral administration, limiting understanding of its systemic effects.
Side effects
Topical use of Inophyllum Seed Oil can cause mild irritation in 5-10% of individuals with sensitive skin. Allergic contact dermatitis is a rare occurrence, affecting less than 1% of users. Due to insufficient safety data, the side effects of oral use are not well-established, but theoretical risks include hepatotoxicity due to coumarin derivatives. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to a lack of safety data and should be avoided on open wounds due to the risk of irritation. Drug interactions are not well-documented, but caution is advised when using concurrently with other topical or systemic medications. Further research is needed to fully characterize the safety profile, especially for oral use.
Dosage
For topical applications, a concentration of 5-10% in formulations is generally recommended. Nanoemulsions with a particle size of 100-200 nm may enhance delivery. There is no established safe dose for oral consumption. Traditional use suggests doses of less than 5 mL per day, but the safety of this practice has not been verified. Vitamin E can be used as a synergist to prevent oil oxidation, and ceramides can aid in barrier repair when used in dermatological applications. Due to limited safety data, it is crucial to adhere to conservative dosing guidelines and seek professional advice before using Inophyllum Seed Oil, especially orally.
FAQs
Can it replace steroid creams for eczema?
No, Inophyllum Seed Oil may complement but cannot replace steroid creams for eczema. There is a lack of robust, randomized controlled trial (RCT) evidence to support its use as a standalone treatment compared to standard care.
Oral vs. topical efficacy?
Topical benefits of Inophyllum Seed Oil are better documented compared to oral use. The efficacy of oral consumption remains speculative due to limited research and a lack of human pharmacokinetic data.
Shelf life considerations?
Inophyllum Seed Oil has a shelf life of 6-12 months when refrigerated. Rancidity can reduce its antioxidant capacity, so proper storage is essential to maintain its beneficial properties.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7910904/ – This in vitro study screened the bioactivity of ethanol extracts of Inophyllum Seed Oil. The resin fractions demonstrated 2-3 times higher antioxidant activity compared to the crude oil, suggesting that specific extraction methods can enhance the oil's antioxidant potential. However, the study lacks human exposure data, limiting its direct applicability to human health.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8782620/ – This systematic review of preclinical data examined the potential of Inophyllum Seed Oil in treating atopic dermatitis. The review found a mechanistic basis for the oil's ability to modulate the skin barrier, suggesting it could be beneficial for skin health. However, the review noted a gap in clinical trials, highlighting the need for human studies to validate these findings.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2025.1502815/full – This systematic review of clinical studies examined the benefits of seed oils in general. While it noted general benefits associated with seed oils, it did not find any specific data related to *C. inophyllum*. The review concluded that there is insufficient evidence to support claims regarding the oil's effects on diabetes or dyslipidemia.
- https://www.springermedizin.de/optimisation-of-calophyllum-inophyllum-seed-oil-nanoemulsion-as-/23676174 – This study focuses on optimizing the formulation of Calophyllum inophyllum seed oil into a nanoemulsion. The research explores how nanoemulsions can enhance the delivery and effectiveness of the oil, particularly for topical applications. This optimization is crucial for improving skin penetration and overall therapeutic outcomes.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2024.1476311/full – This article provides a comprehensive overview of the phytochemistry, traditional uses, and pharmacological activities of Calophyllum inophyllum. It highlights the plant's rich composition of bioactive compounds and its historical use in traditional medicine for various ailments. The review also summarizes the current scientific evidence supporting its pharmacological effects, emphasizing its potential as a therapeutic agent.
