Question 1

How does Calophyllum inophyllum work for wound healing?

Accepted Answer

Calophyllum inophyllum oil promotes wound healing primarily through calophyllolide, a coumarin compound with demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. This active constituent stimulates tissue regeneration and supports collagen formation at wound sites. The oil's rich fatty acid content also helps restore skin barrier function. Evidence Level C supports these mechanisms, with laboratory studies confirming antimicrobial activity against common wound pathogens. Traditional Pacific Island use spans centuries for treating cuts, burns, and skin infections.

Question 2

Does Calophyllum inophyllum oil interact with any medications?

Accepted Answer

No significant drug interactions have been documented for topical Calophyllum inophyllum oil use. However, internal use is not recommended due to coumarin compounds that could potentially affect liver enzyme activity. Patients taking blood-thinning medications or drugs metabolized through the liver should avoid oral consumption. Always inform healthcare providers about all herbal products used. Topical application poses minimal interaction risk when used as traditionally practiced.

Question 3

What is the recommended dosage for Calophyllum inophyllum oil?

Accepted Answer

Apply cold-pressed Calophyllum inophyllum seed oil topically to clean wounds or affected skin areas two to three times daily. Use a thin layer, approximately two to three drops per square inch of skin. The oil can be applied undiluted or blended with carrier oils for larger areas. Internal use is not recommended. Evidence Level C supports these traditional topical application methods used by Pacific Island healers for generations.

Question 4

Is Calophyllum inophyllum safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

Topical Calophyllum inophyllum oil is generally considered safe during pregnancy when applied to small skin areas. No adverse pregnancy outcomes have been reported in traditional use across Pacific Island populations. However, pregnant women should avoid internal use entirely. As with any topical product during pregnancy, perform a patch test first and consult a qualified healthcare provider. Limited clinical safety data exists, so exercise caution during the first trimester.

Question 5

What are the side effects of Calophyllum inophyllum oil?

Accepted Answer

Calophyllum inophyllum oil is well-tolerated by most individuals. Rare side effects include skin sensitization or allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive people. To minimize reaction risk, perform a patch test by applying a small amount to the inner forearm and waiting 24 hours before broader use. Internal consumption may cause gastrointestinal upset and is contraindicated. The oil has an excellent safety profile for topical use when applied as traditionally practiced.

Question 6

What skin conditions does Calophyllum inophyllum treat?

Accepted Answer

Calophyllum inophyllum, also known as Tamanu, is traditionally used for wound healing, burns, cuts, abrasions, eczema, psoriasis, and acne. Pacific Island cultures revere it as a sacred healing tree for various skin diseases. The oil's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it particularly effective for infected wounds and inflammatory skin conditions. Evidence Level C supports these traditional applications, though more rigorous clinical studies are needed to confirm efficacy.

Calophyllum inophyllum

Sources & Citations

Summary

Background

Traditional uses

Active compounds

Mechanism of action

Clinical evidence

Evidence summary

PubMed sources

Government sources