15 Emu Oil Health Benefits, Side Effects and Uses

1. Moisturizes Skin

Emu oil has about 98% lipid content. This content is full of healthy fats, known as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These components make emu oil an effective agent for hydrating and nourishing the skin.

Emu oil is known for its capability to penetrate deep into the skin. Unlike other oils that reside on the surface, this oil helps to moisturize the skin cells present in the inner layer as well. Therefore, choosing emu oil as a moisturizer means getting skin moisturized for a longer period.

2. For Wounds, Scars and Sunburn

Besides moisturizing properties, emu oil also has anti-inflammatory and skin-tightening properties. These properties have been utilized for centuries to treat wound, scars and sunburn.

For Wounds: Emu oil increases the rate at which the wound closes and promotes the formation of new cells at the wound formation site. This oil was used to heal small wounds in traditional times. The pain and redness associated with the wounds can also be minimized with the help of this oil.

For Scars: The ability of emu oil to improve skin elasticity is what makes its use commendable in vanishing scars. As the rate of tissue generation process is significantly escalated by the use of this oil, its regular application improves the appearance of scars over time.

For Sunburn: The hydrating and calming properties of this oil also provides relief from sunburns. The antioxidant property further protects the skin from damage caused by the UV rays from the sun.

3. Reduces Muscular And Joint Pain

Fatty acids present in emu oil are known to reduce pain in muscles and joints. Inflammatory processes are the major factor that results in pain, swelling and stiffness. By taking charge of these processes, fatty acids make sure muscular and joint pain is relieved.

Emu oil also penetrates deep into the tissues and muscles, therefore can target the source of pain and provide relief. Moreover, with regular massage blood flow to the muscle and joint tissues increase. With proper availability of nutrients and oxygen to the affected area, the healing process is accelerated.

4. For Hair Loss and Hair Conditioning

Rich in fatty acids, especially oleic acid, emu oil can penetrate deep into the hair follicles within the scalp. The ability of the oil to traverse the cells makes sure they are well moisturized and supplied with essential nutrients.

Besides improving scalp circulation, emu oil also reduces the inflammation of the scalp cells. This property can help to rejuvenate the inflamed follicles thereby promoting the growth of new hair. The number of new hair follicles also have been found to increase with the use of this oil. By applying a small amount of emu oil, you can also help prevent drying out of hair.

5. Reduces Cholesterol

Though emu oil is itself derived from emu bird fat, it surprisingly has been found to reduce cholesterol levels when consumed orally! This is because the high percentage of the oil is unsaturated fatty acids which is different from the lethal saturated ones.

The healthy fats of the oil work by increasing the amount of good cholesterol while decreasing the levels of bad ones. Any anti-inflammatory process whose occurence can increase the bad cholesterol is also stopped by emu oil. Animal studies, done on hamsters, have supported the fact that the oral intake of emu oil decreases the cholesterol level.

6. Potent Insect Repellent

There is a dose-dependent effect of emu oil on insects like mosquitoes. Higher concentrations of emu oil, 25%, has been found to reduce one tenth of total mosquitoes while 1% of the oil to reduce half of mosquitoes. So, 1% or higher of the emu oil is an effective insect repellent.

It is hypothesized that emu oil forms a protective barrier on the skin, making it less attractive to insects. This barrier may cover the scent of humans thus interfering with the insects' ability to track human skin. Emu oil not only reduces insects but also has been used traditionally by Australians to reduce the redness and pain caused by their bites.

7. Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is a process in our body, it is a natural response against infections and injury. But when this process gets exaggerated in the body, it only does harm to us. Such chronic inflammatory conditions have been related to various health problems.

Emu oil prevents the immune system from becoming hyperactive. Omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, oleic acids, and all the fat constituents can pause the inflammatory processes before they cause severe harm to the body. To gain all these anti-inflammatory benefits, emu oil can be either used topically or also as an oral supplement.

Reduction in oxidative stress: The fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce oxidative damage in the body. This protects cells from damage caused by the free radicals.  Additionally, emu oil contains compounds called tocopherols, which are a group of antioxidants that also help neutralize free radicals.

8. To Treat Bowel Disorders

Emu oil's benefit is not limited to joints, muscles and skin, it also has the ability to treat bowel disorders. This benefit has been utilized since traditional times, especially in the cases of irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease.

The application of emu oil is known to reduce the signs of these disorders, including abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. The benefits are attributed to the anti-inflammatory properties of fatty acids. The therapeutic potential has been observed in the treatment of intestinal damage caused by cancer chemotherapy as well!

9. Prevents Bone Loss

Generally, bone loss is associated with progress in age. The supplementation of emu oil has been shown to reduce the chances of bone loss, preventing conditions like fractures and osteoporosis.

Bone-forming cells are called osteoblasts while the ones that destroy bone cells are called osteoclasts. Studies have shown that emu oil supplementation works by preventing the reduction of osteoblasts and induction of osteoclasts. The bone-protecting properties of this oil are due to its fatty acids which also tend to improve calcium absorption and regulation of hormones important in bone metabolism.

10. Anti-Bacterial Properties

The anti-bacterial properties of emu oil is what makes it an effective remedy for conditions like acne and wounds. By not allowing bacteria to divide and multiply in the applied area, emu oil can prevent inevitable complications.

For instance, wounds can get even worse if bacteria get a chance to infect them. However, the tropical application of emu oil prevents such circumstances. The static properties are not only limited to bacteria, rather, its use has been shown to prevent the growth of fungi as well as viruses.

11. Anti-Aging Properties

Emu oil is an effective anti-aging solution. The sagging of skin and wrinkles formation is mainly due to the loss of collagen, the abundant protein of skin that ensures elasticity. By supporting the collagen formation process, emu oil stops hints of aging!

Premature aging related to the exposure of skin to pollutants is also stopped by emu oil. Those pollutants damage the skin, which is prevented by the oil's antioxidant properties. Also, by controlling the chances of skin's tissue getting inflamed, the vitality of skin is maintained.

12. Use For Psoriasis

Psoriasis is related to the formation of thick, red, scaly patches on the skin. Individuals facing this situation have to go through itchy and painful times and in certain cases, the skin may even crack and bleed. Emu oil has been praised as a natural remedy for psoriasis.

The anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties of emu oil is what saves us from the severe signs of psoriasis. The rich content of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids makes sure the skin does not have to face extreme inflammation, providing a soothing effect. Also, the moisturizing property reduces the dryness and flakiness of skin associated with psoriasis.

13. Use For Arthritis

Arthritis is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation and joint pain. Natural alternatives to arthritis are available which have proven to show beneficial effects. Among such alternatives, emu oil has gained attention for its potential benefits in treating arthritis.

Emu oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, known to have anti-inflammatory effects.  Inflammation plays a significant role in arthritis, so reducing inflammation can help alleviate pain and improve joint function.

Along with that, emu oil also makes sure sufficient blood passes to the affected joints. This can also support the healing process. Additionally, studies have also showed emu oil's tendency to reduce the stiffness on the joints related to arthritis.

14. Beneficial For Breastfeeding Women

Emu oil has many benefits for breastfeeding women. Firstly, its application is known to soothe cracked nipples that often occur in breastfeeding women. This oil can also significantly help reduce stretch marks. It's common for pregnant women to develop stretch marks in the belly, hips, thigh and breast region, wherever these marks are prevalent you can regularly massage the area with emu oil for desired results.

Emu oil can also be helpful if you have a caesarean section. The oil can help support the healing process of the wound. Moreover, massaging with emu oil also reduces the swelling of joints in feet, ankles and hips.

15. To Treat Hemorrhoids

Many ointment creams for hemorrhoids also have emu oil as their constituent. The fatty acids present in emu oil are known to reduce pain and swelling. To get rid of hemorrhoids, you just have to massage the affected area with emu oil several times a day.

For mild to moderate cases of hemorrhoids, emu oil is considered very effective. But for severe cases, professional consultation is appropriate. The anti-inflammatory properties of fatty acids also have a role to play here. By reducing inflammation in anal tissues, the oil helps to reduce the severity of hemorrhoids.

How Is Emu Oil Made?

Emu oil is solely made from emu's fat! Mature emus are harvested for their fat which is extracted using heating techniques. After clearing out impurities like tissues and blood, the product gets ready to be sold.

Overall, the production process is simple. The price of pure and high-quality emu oil is in the medium range, you can easily purchase it without worrying about the price tag.

Side Effects

Emu oil has minimal side effects or it would be fair to say no side effects have been noted till now. In cases you observe any side effects, it's best to discontinue the product.

Uses

Emu oil can be used topically as well in the form of supplements. The appropriate form to use is determined by the specific condition being treated.

Topical Use

For application on the skin, you can use both pure form of emu oil or dilute it with carrier oil. Coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil can be a good choice of carrier oil.

Before applying oil, make sure the skin is clean and dry. Start with a small amount of the oil and massage the area gently. You can leave the oil as it is for getting desired results, as the oil gets chance to penetrate the skin deeply. This method is perfect when you are applying emu oil as a moisturizer.

If you are planning to use it as a hair conditioner, then apply a small amount of the oil to the scalp and massage it in. Leave it for a few minutes and then rinse with warm water.

Not everyone can be tolerant of emu oil. So, before use, it's best to perform a patch test. For this, apply the oil on a small area of your skin and only proceed with a larger amount if there are no signs of allergic reaction.

Oral Supplements

Emu oil supplements have been used to reduce cholesterol levels. The supplements are also helpful in treating bowel disorders. The recommended dosage of the supplements can vary according to the product. To prevent overconsumption, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating it into your diet.

Commercial Forms Of Emu Oil

Emu oil has been incorporated into various forms rather than just oil. Some common ones are listed below:

• Pure Emu Oil: This is the most concentrated form of emu oil, typically sold in small bottles or jars. It can be used directly on the skin or hair or added to other products.
• Emu Oil Capsules: For those who prefer oral consumption, emu oil capsules are available. These capsules contain a concentrated dose of emu oil and can be taken as a dietary supplement.
• Emu Oil-Based Products: Many skincare, hair care, and massage products incorporate emu oil as a key ingredient. These products offer a convenient way to enjoy the benefits of emu oil without having to apply it directly.
• Emu Oil-Infused Lotions and Creams: These products combine emu oil with other moisturizing agents, such as shea butter or aloe vera, to create a hydrating and soothing formula.
• Emu Oil-Based Lip Balms: Lip balms containing emu oil can help soothe chapped lips and provide long-lasting moisture.