Monoi Oil: History and The Skin & Haircare Benefits
The Tiaré flower, or the Tahitian gardenia (Latin name: Gardenia tahitensis), is the emblem of The Islands of Tahiti. Tiaré is derived from the word "tiara," which suggests this simple yet elegant snow-white beauty with a delicate floral scent is the queen of all the flowers in French Polynesia. As per Tahitian mythology, this sacred flower was said to be created by Atea, the Oceanic God of Creation, and Tane, the God of Beauty. Because of its divine connection, the flower is often offered for religious ceremonies. Moreover, it has many uses throughout The Islands of Tahiti, everything from beauty to medicine or gesture of welcome to civil status and even décor.
Tahiti's Best-kept Beauty Secret: Monoï Oil
The buds or petals of the Tiare flower are soaked or "enfleurage" in coconut oil, which creates the renowned monoï ('mah-noi') oil. Therefore, coconut oil also plays a vital role in the goodness of monoï oil- as such monoï contains similar benefits to coconut oil.
Not only is the flower, but the oil native to French Polynesia.
The fragrance notes on this infusion of oil - exotic sweet floral scent laced with a blend of chocolate, honey, and subtle earthy notes.
Monoï's History
While the exact history is unknown, an ancestral history believes that the indigenous Polynesians-Maohis settled on the islands of Polynesia over 2000 years ago, created Monoï-which means "scented oil." For centuries, Monoï oil has been used to anoint newborns, purify objects, and repellent bugs. It also has many hair and skincare purposes in Tahitian beauty practices. It has been used as a moisturiser for skin and pomade for hair. It was an essential staple to soothe sun damage or protect fishermen and divers from the chill of the Pacific waters. Additionally, the oil has been used to relax muscles for exercise, highlight the rich colour of tattoos, and heal skin stretched from childbirth.
It was in 1940 when the commercial manufacture of Monoï oil first began.
Today, Monoï oil is added to creams, oils, and bar soaps to hydrate and soften skin, scalp, and hair.
Skincare Benefits of Monoï
- Monoï oil is an excellent emollient that helps hydrate, seals in moisture, and soften skin; due to that fact, this infusion oil is made predominantly of coconut oil.
- With lauric acid, capric acid, coconut oil-rich monoi oil has antibacterial activity that helps fight acne-causing bacteria, keeping blemishes at bay.
- Monoï oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe stressed skin and relieve conditions like eczema.
Noncomedogenic Monoï oil helps restore and retain moisture while counteracting dryness and dullness when applied to the face. It also keeps out bacteria and speeds up healing as a face oil.
Hair & Scalp Benefits of Monoï
Monoï oil is an excellent hair product. The properties of the oil has high affinity with hair and penetrates the hair shaft while replenishing lipids for stronger, shinier, and healthier hair. Moreover, Monoï oil helps reduce protein loss due to shampooing with harsh surfactants.
Monoï oil hydrates and soothes the scalp, and creates a perfect environment for healthy hair growth.
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