Tung oil or China wood oil is a drying oil obtained by pressing the seed from the nut of the tung tree ( Vernicia fordii ). Tung oil hardens upon exposure to air (through polymerization ), and the resulting coating is transparent and has a deep, almost wet look.
Is tung oil the same as tung oil finish?
Tung oil and ‘tung oil finish’ are not the same thing. If not specifically labeled ‘pure’ or ‘100%’, it’s likely that the supposed tung oil has been chemically modified or is altogether absent. Use pure tung oil for its benefits.
Where did Tung oil come from?
The tung oil tree originates in southern China and was cultivated there for tung oil, but the date of cultivation remains unknown. The earliest references for Chinese use of tung oil are in the writings of Confucius (551 – 479 BCE) around 500 to 479 BC.
Is tung oil derived from a nut?
Though it’s called ‘China nut’ or tung oil, this oil actually comes from the seeds of a berry of the Vernicia fordii tree. Despite its name, tung oil is not a nut. You shouldn’t drink it or cook with it, but it isn’t bad for the environment or unhealthy for you to apply.