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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.<br/><br/> 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).<br/><br/> The wood of several trees may be used to produce thanaka cream; these trees grow abundantly in central Myanmar. They include principally <i>Murraya spp.</i> (<i>thanaka</i>), but also <i>Limonia acidissima</i> (<i>theethee</i> or wood apple).<br/><br/> 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.<br/><br/> 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 <i>thanaka bè gya</i>, or patterned in the shape of a leaf, often also highlighting the bridge of the nose with it at the same time.