Benefits of Thanaka

In MANDA Organic Sun Paste and Organic Sun Creme, all of the ingredients used are pure and simple. We call them superfoods for the skin. While you’re probably familiar with most of our organic ingredient goodness (coconut oil, Shea butter, beeswax, cacao powder, cocoa butter, cinnamon oil and zinc oxide), there’s another major player you might not know about.

That’s why we’re breaking down the top 5 benefits of thanaka, MANDA’s most powerful ingredient.

Natural Alternative to Sunblock

Thanaka is nature’s sunscreen in its purest form. The Burmese have used thanaka to protect and beautify the skin for over 2,000 years. Ground from tree bark in Myanmar (formerly Burma) and commonly pulverized on a stone slab, it is then mixed with water to form a paste. It’s then applied topically where it acts as a physical shield against the sun while also nourishing the skin with its rich antioxidant properties.

Rich in Vitamin E

Thanaka is a nutrient-dense paste packed with vitamin E, which protects the skin against polluted air and free radicals, the unstable compounds that damage cell structure.

Vitamin E is comprised of antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, all things your skin loves! Additionally, thanaka is an effective moisturizer, and its hydrating and cooling effects makes it ideal for post-sun exposure. Combine thanaka with MANDA’s other hydrating ingredients like coconut oil and Shea butter, and say goodbye to dry skin.

Thanaka also contains properties that inhibit tyrosinase, an agent responsible for melanin synthesis and skin discoloration. Therefore, the regular use of thanaka can brighten and improve your skin’s complexion.

Influenced by Local Traditions

We believe there are power and richness in local traditions. When we examine a particular practice a culture thrives on, we begin to understand its power in application and effectiveness in that culture. The use of a single ingredient, vital to everyday life, gives insight into an alternative practice. The use of thanaka by the Burmese demonstrates how simple working with nature can be.

Utilizing thanaka as a main component in MANDA teaches us to be innovative with the resources from our environment and to work with nature, as nature intended.

Less Environmentally Impacting

More thanaka = less zinc.

You might be wondering why less zinc is beneficial, as most natural sunscreens contain zinc as the active ingredient. Because zinc is a mineral, the process of mining it puts a huge toll on our planet. At MANDA, we aim to protect our planet and oceans. By using thanaka, nature’s best solution for sunscreen, we’re able to use a more sustainable and regenerative ingredient, thereby reducing our environmental footprint.

Works With Nature, Not Against

By using thanaka, we apply simple indigenous remedies, which enrich lifelong necessities. By learning from other cultures and going back to basics, we enhance our connection to the simplicity of working with nature. By utilizing thanaka as an active ingredient in MANDA, we take part in traditional practices, regressing toward a healthier community and planet. Working with nature can really be that simple.

Now get outside and test this natural curative for yourself!