Pita Nikolas Taufatofua of Tonga became famous this last week. Yes, he is a gifted Taekwondo competitor, but his fame came his desire to honor his culture while representing his nation in the opening exercises of the 2016 Summer Olympics. The world wanted to know, “who is that shiny man, and why?”

 

Pita is 32 years old. He is single and he actually lives in Australia. But his father is Tongan, and is honored to be on the Tongan Olympic team

The answer to “why” he was oiled is both simple and heartfelt. It is a part of Tongan culture to present oneself as well as possible. The most common event for applying a layer of coconut oil as an adornment to one’s skin is for young ladies performing a traditional tau’olunga. This is a graceful dance performed traditionally at weddings or other special occasions by a young woman coming of age (around 16 years old). Coconut oil is massaged into the dancer’s skin, giving it a shiny ‘glow’ meant to complement the human shape. Historically, Tongans also applied oil to their men before going into battle or performing for a special event.

CLICK HERE to read a blog by Bobby Akoi from March 4, 2014 detailing the tau’olunga and the tradition of Fakapale, which is the tradition of presenting prize money to the dancer.

Polynesians have understood for years that the magical coconut provides numerous benefits to mankind. The properties to coconut oil includes anti-inflammatory properties, as well as a soothing balm for injuries or sunburns.

Coconut oil can be utilized for cooking, and is becoming a common substitute for butter on breads and other starches.

Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer, as well as a treatment for dry or damaged hair. Some people use it as a toothpaste, mouthwash or to treat oral infections.

Coconut oil is utilized throughout the beauty and health industry. But this is nothing new. Tongan mothers have known these secrets for years.  “When mothers want their children to have a well-proportioned physical body with hefty calf and biceps muscles, they are massaged regularly with Tongan oil. Men use Tongan oil as a perfume, an after-shave lotion, and as a protective seal to keep them warm if they are out in the open or at sea for a long time.”

 

 

 

 

 

“In the past every family had their oil specialist who made oil for the family, scented with their favorite flower or wood. Tongan oil connoisseurs could tell which part of the country a particular Tongan oil came from by the smell of the oil” (Coconut Oil for Health and Beauty by Pesi Fonua)

Coconut oil is not just used and respected in Tonga. Many Polynesian and Asian countries have utilized this abundant fruit throughout their lives. All of the cultures represented at the Polynesian Cultural Center, have rich traditions in gathering coconut oil and other by-products.

We also make sure that our stores here at the PCC and through shop.polynesia.com carry an excellent line of various products for your health and enjoyment.

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