The emu is native to Australia and, after its cousin, the ostrich, is the second-largest bird on the planet. It is raised commercially for its meat, leather, eggs and oil.
Applications
Fat from the emu is rendered and refined into an oil with applications that include cosmetics, medicines and health care products.
Features
The healing properties of emu oil for the skin relate to its essential fatty acid content, which includes omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. According to the American Emu Association, "The absence of phospholipids makes emu oil highly penetrating and allows it to absorb through the skin more easily."
Benefits
The Maryland Emu Association website says, "Emu oil also contains oleic acid, a substance that has a local anti-inflammatory effect on dermal tissues." Because of this anti-inflammatory effect, many athletic departments use emu oil for sports-related pain and injuries. The oil also helps resolve issues with dry skin, burns and arthritic joints.
Grading
The American Emu Association is the international authority that grades commercial emu products and certifies them for purity. The highest grade, "Fully Refined Emu Oil," is pure enough to use as an ingredient in dietary supplements.
Potential
Although conclusive research on humans has not yet been done in the U.S., Susan McMahon writes, on the University of Massachusetts Lowell website, "Researchers in Australia are also looking into the cholesterol-reducing aspects of the oil." With more research and experience, emu oil remedies may become accepted as nurturing and health-enhancing tools.
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