Monoi Body Cream

Monoi Body Cream, also known as Monoi de Tahiti, is a wonderful body moisturizer and skin conditioner made from a natural coconut oil base infused with the petals of Gardenia tiare, a variety of Gardenia flowers native to French Polynesia.

Our Monoi Body Cream is approximately 90% coconut oil and 10% gardenia extract. There are no materials present other than the coconut oil. No alcohol, chemical or dilutants – just the extracts from the gardenia flowers. Extracts are unusual items to describe in % terms as the botanical matter used to create the extract (ie the flowers in this case) are removed from the product after extraction so are not really present in the product. However the coconut oil itself takes on the character of the flowers infused in it.

Monoi (pronounced Mah-noy) is a Tahitian word meaning “sacred  oil.” Many South Pacific islanders still follow the cultural practice of applying Monoi Body Cream daily to protect their hair and skin from the drying effects of saltwater, wind and sun. Tahitian families often have their own recipes for Monoi, blending additional aromatic flowers for a special scent. For ages, rowers on traditional Tahitian boats have believed that Monoi applied topically before a race will ease muscle pain and increase endurance.  To this day, Monoi is a staple of everyday life in Tahiti, as well as one of the country’s most cherished specialty products.

Uses of Monoi body cream:

• rehydrate the skin after bathing
• protect against sun, wind, sea or pool water
• as a pre-shampoo oil treatment to repair and restore luster for the hair
• deep tissue massage
• relieve mild sunburn
• reduce stretch marks in expectant mothers

We’ve been importing Monoi body cream for a number of years and really love the fragrance as well as the benefits. It’s pleasant to use – it melts into the skin, soothing and hydrating it. We recommend Monoi as a fragrant and fun alternative to regular coconut oil for topical use.