Monoï
de Tahiti: Spa in a Bottle
By
Lisa Maliga at Smashwords
Copyright 2011 by Lisa Maliga
Disclaimer:
The
information in this book was gathered from various sources. It is in
no way meant to prevent, cure, or diagnose any medical condition. All
recipes and products suggested should not be used for purposes other
than that for which they were intended. All products are for EXTERNAL
USE ONLY. The author accepts no liability for the misuse of these
products. Please do not rely on products or information as a
substitute for medical advice. If you have a medical problem, contact
a health care practitioner. Product statements have not been
evaluated by the FDA.
Table of Contents:
Monoi de Tahiti oil is like a spa in a bottle. This Tahitian wonder oil is filled with skin-soothing benefits and is highly versatile. Since discovering it more than a decade ago, I have used it in my soaps, whipped shea butter, and right out of the bottle. This fragrant oil is easily absorbed into one's skin. Another unique aspect of Monoi de Tahiti is due to being coconut-based; it can be solid, semi-solid or liquid, depending upon the temperature.
Monoi, which translates as "scented oil," comes exclusively from Tahitian coconuts. The genus of Cocos nucifera that grows in the coral soil of this island is combined with the native flower, Gardenia tahitensis. Similar to jasmine, the white petals of this flower also have a distinct sweet floral aroma. So connected to this area, the Tiare flower is the emblem of French Polynesia.
Handpicked Tahitian Tiare flower buds are macerated for at least ten days with coconut oil to create this lovely floral scent. Monoi de Tahiti oil is solid at temperatures of 75 degrees Fahrenheit [24 degrees Celsius] and it will become liquid at higher temperatures -- this doesn't affect the product at all. It can be melted and then allowed to solidify many times. This multipurpose oil has a shelf life of one to two years. Monoi de Tahiti is an excellent skin moisturizer and is recommended for those of you who are looking for a soothing after tan product. Using Monoi de Tahiti as a hair conditioner will condition your hair and leave it smelling like you've been on vacation in Tahiti. In fact, Tahitians have been using Monoi de Tahiti for centuries...and now you can give this luxurious silky oil a try!
It's very important to note that while Monoi de Tahiti is a coconut-based oil, it's NOT greasy or sticky. Those of you who have oily skin may be pleasantly surprised to discover that it can work for their skin. Since this lovely oil contains only natural plant-based ingredients it's fine for vegetarians and vegans to use.
"Parfumerie Tiki was founded in Tahiti in 1942 and created and sold the first commercially available Monoi Tiki perfumed oil. Today their Monoi products are still refined using traditional methods and only the finest Tahitian ingredients." Rebecca Byland, founder of Tahiti-Iti Imports.
While the
Tiare flower is distinctive from the aroma of the fresh coconuts,
which serve as the base for Monoi de Tahiti, this wonderful version
of gardenia also contains soothing, purifying, and skin helping
properties.