Thanaka's best known for its skin-nourishing, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties said to help prevent acne, reduce oils and ensure smooth, clear skin.

The natural sunscreen is also a symbol of their cultural identities. It provides connection between the past and the present as it continues and preserves their ancestral knowledge, beliefs and practices.

Thanaka’s Historical Roots. (2016, March 16). Manda Naturals. https://mandanaturals.com/blogs/news/thanaka-s-historical-roots?srsltid=AfmBOooX9tiKAGCySddFnHLMWQtYpKaGRIyxzN_QhNeJcrZwF89Q6l4i

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Goldsberry A, Dinner A, Hanke CW. Thanaka: traditional Burmese sun protection.JDDonline - Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. https://jddonline.com/articles/thanaka-traditional-burmese-sun-protection-S1545961614P0306X/

For men, it is often paired with a collarless shirt called an "eingyi," while women wear it with a blouse that may feature embroidery or lace. Women’s longyis often have vibrant patterns, whereas men’s designs are more subtle. The dress is completed with a shawl for formal occasions, reflecting Myanmar's rich cultural heritage.

thamineblog. (2018, March 11). The Evolution of Burmese Dress. Thamine. https://thamine.blog/2018/03/11/the-evolution-of-burmese-dress/

In my nursing practice, I strive to apply this standard by actively learning about the cultural backgrounds of my patients. For example, when working with Burmese refugees, I am aware of their cultural beliefs regarding health and treatment.

I recognise their perspectives on traditional medicine and can be accommodating to their beliefs in care plans. By doing so, I can provide more respectful and effective care that aligns with their cultural values, enhancing patient trust and outcomes.

Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice: Working with People from Migrant and Refugee Backgrounds COMPETENCY STANDARDS FRAMEWORK FOR CLINICIANS. (2019). https://culturaldiversityhealth.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Culturally-responsive-clinical-practice-Working-with-people-from-migrant-and-refugee-backgrounds-Jan2019.pdf

World Health Organization. (2024). Social determinants of health. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/health-topics/social-determinants-of-health#tab=tab_1

Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant health problem among Burmese refugees because of possible exposure during relocation. For the treatment of tuberculosis (TB), Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) is recommended by the Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide. By having medical professionals monitor patients, DOT provides medication adherence, promoting efficient treatment and minimising drug resistance.

Refugee health assessment» Australian Refugee Health. (n.d.). https://refugeehealthguide.org.au/refugee-health-assessment/

Chaves, N. J., Gibney, K. B., Leder, K., O’Brien, D. P., Marshall, C., & Biggs, B.-A. (2009). Screening Practices for Infectious Diseases among Burmese Refugees in Australia. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 15(11), 1769–1772. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid1511.090777

To create the soups broth individuals use chickpea flour, vegetables, onions, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and surprisingly banana tree stems, all is combined and cooked in the fish sauce.

Once all is cooked it is commonly combined with rice vermicelli to the be topped with an array of options which can include, crispy fritters, extra chickpeas or even and egg. The dish can be created uniquely to each person and family depending on their preferences.

Nutrition Facts:

Servings Per Recipe: 6

Serving Size: 1 serving

Amount Per Serving

Calories 1,150.6

Total Fat 30.3 g

Saturated Fat 4.6 g

Polyunsaturated Fat 4.4 g

Monounsaturated Fat 9.0 g

Cholesterol 305.0 mg

Sodium 664.1 mg

Potassium 581.1 mg

Total Carbohydrate 152.2 g

Dietary Fiber 9.9 g

Sugars 10.2 g

Protein 68.6 g

Vitamin A 6.2 %

Vitamin B-12 9.8 %

Vitamin B-6 38.5 %

Vitamin C 33.5 %

Vitamin D 0.0 %

Vitamin E 16.4 %

Calcium 16.3 %

Copper 11.6 %

Folate 88.3 %

Iron 48.2 %

Magnesium 13.5 %

Manganese 37.8 %

Niacin 48.0 %

Pantothenic Acid 11.8 %

Phosphorus 19.7 %

Riboflavin 52.1 %

Selenium 47.0 %

Thiamin 98.1 %

Zinc 8.6 %

Mohinga: Myanmar’s National Dish. (2013, August 27). The Slow Road Luxury Travel Blog. https://www.butterfield.com/get-inspired/mohinga-myanmars-national-dish

Mohinga - Fish Noodle Soup. (n.d.). Burmalicious by Suu. https://www.theburmalicious.com/blog/mohinga

Calories in Burmese fish noodle soup (Mohinga) - Calorie, Fat, Carb, Fiber, and Protein Info. (2016). SparkRecipes. https://recipes.sparkpeople.com/recipe-calories.asp?recipe=2327265

One significant ceremony is the Buddhist Ordination Ceremony, where young men are seen as monks, signifying their transitions into adulthood.

The Thingyan Festival (Burmese New Year), this involves water throwing to wash away their sins going into a new year.

New Page 2. (2024). Isical.ac.in. https://www.isical.ac.in/~isectrg/myanmar/culture.htm#:~:text=Shin%2Dbyu%20is%20a%20religious

janecanapini. (2015, May 19). An Inside Look at an Ordination Ceremony in Myanmar - Grownup Travels. Grownup Travels. https://www.grownuptravels.com/ordination-ceremony-myanmar/#google_vignette

What is Myanmar Water Festival or Thingyan? – Discovery Dmc Blog. (2024, May 9). Discoverydmc.com. https://discoverydmc.com/blog/myanmar-travel-news-updates/what-is-myanmar-water-festival-or-thingyan/#:~:text=Water%20festival%20is%20the%20most