Thanaka Wood

Thanaka is a paste made from ground bark. It is a distinctive feature of the culture of Myanmar. It is commonly applied to the face and sometimes the arms of women and girls, and is used to a lesser extent also by men and boys.

The wood of several trees may be used to produce thanaka cream; these trees grow abundantly in central Myanmar. They include principally Murraya species but also Limonia acidissima (wood apple). Hesperethusa crenulata is a synonym of Naringi crenulata. Thanaka is a small tree that can grow to a height of 10 m, commonly grown on dry hills or in dry jungles. Thanaka trees are perennials, and a tree must be at least 35 years old before it is considered mature enough to yield good-quality cuttings.

In its natural state thanaka is sold as small logs individually or in bundles, and nowadays also as a paste or in powder form. Thanaka also gives a cooling sensation and provides protection from sunburn. It is believed to help remove acne and promote smooth skin. Thanaka skincare products such as soap, loose powder, foundation powder, face scrub and body lotion are produced. Skincare products containing thanaka extracts, such as moisturizing creams, face serum and sunscreen, are also formulated with collagen, hyaluronic acid, vitamins, herbs and flowers, and carry pleasant fragrances.

Plenty of coumarins have been found in thanaka. Marmesin is a precursor in the biosynthesis of psoralen and linear furanocoumarins. The marmesin content of thanaka stem bark varies between sources. Researchers have suggested that marmesin is the primary compound responsible for ultraviolet protection. A 2010 study by Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok and the University of London found that thanaka bark has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and also absorbs UV radiation. Thanaka inhibits tyrosinase, an enzyme that triggers melanin synthesis.

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