Emu oil is manufactured from the fat of emus, large Australian birds that are unable to fly. The oil is composed of a variety of fatty acids, with oleic predominating. There probably isnt a situation or condition for which emu oil isnt used, or at least marketed, for. It is even used in the machine, leather and lumber industries. When it is applied to scalp, it is usually with the intent of repairing damaged hair and treating dandruff and/or moisturizing dry skin, as well as countering baldness. Sometimes, it is also used to relieve headaches.
Evidence of Efficacy
The cosmetics industry seems to recognize the oils emollient, or moisturizing, properties. It is particularly valued for its superior texture and the apparent ability to penetrate deeply into the skin. At least one study, albeit one sponsored by American Emu Association and published in the Australasian Journal of Dermatology in 1996, confirms this effect. Its transdermal effect, specifically, does have some additional scientific support, according to a study published in the Inflammopharmacology journal in 1997. In terms of the oils ability to alleviate headaches, or effectively inhibit or reverse baldness, the evidence seems to be largely anecdotal and scientifically unsubstantiated.
Scalp Application
Regardless of the purpose--scalp or hair treatment, or headache relief--the most commonly recommended amount to apply is only a few drops. This is massaged in and left anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes, before washing out. The recommendations for frequency of application vary from three times a day to weekly to as often as necessary. Some product manufacturers suggest leaving the oil in overnight, under a towel of shower cap.
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