Description
Emu oil is taken by mouth for improving cholesterol levels, as a
source of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, for
weight loss, and as a cough syrup for colds, H1N1 (swine) flu, and
flu.
Some people apply emu oil to the skin for relief from sore muscles,
aching joints, pain or inflammation, carpal tunnel syndrome,
sciatica, shin splints, and gout. It is also used topically to
improve healing of wounds, cuts, and burns from radiation therapy;
to reduce bruises and stretch marks; to reduce scarring and
keloids; to heal surgical wounds caused by removing skin for skin
grafts; to reduce redness due to acne; and to soften dry cuticles
and promote healthy nails. Emu oil is also used topically athlete's
foot; diaper rash; canker sores; chapped lips; poor circulation;
and skin conditions, including cancer, dry skin, dandruff, eczema,
psoriasis, wrinkles or age spots. It is also used to protect skin
from sun damage and to promote more youthful looking skin.
Emu oil is also applied to the skin to reduce pain and irritation
from shingles, bedsores, hemorrhoids, diabetic nerve pain, insect
bites, earaches, eye irritation, "growing pains," and frostbite. It
is used for rashes, razor burn, and nicks.
Some massage therapists apply emu oil to clients’ skin as part of
their treatment.
Some people put emu oil inside the nose to treat colds and flu.
Emu oil (7%) is used in combination with glycolic acid (*0%) for
lowering blood fats including triglycerides, and low density
lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol; preventing and treating allergies;
preventing scarring; treating headaches, especially migraines;
preventing nosebleeds; treating and preventing cold and flu
symptoms; and relieving discomfort associated with
menstruation.
In veterinary practice, emu oil is used to reduce swelling in
joints, prevent cracked or peeling paws, calm "hot spots," and
reduce irritation of flea bites.
In manufacturing, emu oil is used to sharpen and oil industrial
machinery, for polishing timber and leather, and for conditioning
and waterproofing.
How does it work? Emu oil contains chemicals called fatty
acids that might reduce pain and swelling (inflammation). There is
some evidence that emu oil might work better for sudden (acute)
inflammation than for ongoing (chronic) inflammation.
When emu oil is applied to the skin, it has moisturizing and
cosmetic properties that resemble mineral oil.
