Burma / Myanmar: A young Bamar / Burman girl wearing the Burmese cosmetic thanaka (a yellow powder designed to protect the skin), in the design of a bodhi tree leaf, Mandalay

Thanaka (also spelt thanakha) is a yellowish-white cosmetic paste made from ground bark. It is a distinctive feature of Myanmar (formerly Burma) seen commonly applied to the face and sometimes the arms of women and girls and to a lesser extent men and boys. The use of thanaka has also spread to neighboring countries including Thailand.

The earliest literary reference to thanaka is in a 14th century poem written by Mon-speaking King Razadarit's consort. Mentions of thanaka also exist in the 15th century literary works of Burmese monk-poet Shin Maharatthasara (1486-1529).

The wood of several trees may be used to produce thanaka cream; these trees grow abundantly in central Myanmar. They include principally Murraya spp. (thanaka), but also Limonia acidissima (theethee or wood apple).

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. Thanaka in its natural state is sold as small logs individually or in bundles, but nowadays also available as a paste or in powder form.

Thanaka cream has been used by Burmese women for over 2000 years. It has a fragrant scent somewhat similar to sandalwood. The creamy paste is applied to the face in attractive designs, the most common form being a circular patch on each cheek, sometimes made stripey with the fingers known as thanaka bè gya, or patterned in the shape of a leaf, often also highlighting the bridge of the nose with it at the same time.

Copyright:

CPA Media Co. Ltd.

Photographer:

David Henley

Credit:

Pictures From Asia