Excerpts from article by Moira K. Wiley, Emu Today and Tomorrow:
Oct. 2001 Studies on Emu Oil -- Despite the fact that it is
an oil, emu oil benefits us in so many ways. Emu oil has been shown
in tests to be a non-pore-clogging substance. In a two-week study of
arthritis sufferers, 7 out of 12 emu oil users reported a significant
reduction in pain, morning stiffness and swelling. A Boston University
study found a 20% increase in growth activity of the skin in a two week
study of mice. They also found an enhancement in growth activity of
the hair follicles. Another study with elderly women showed in one month's
usage of emu oil daily, the skin wall thickened by 14%. By having thicker,
healthier skin, the opportunity for bruising lessened. Age spots also
tended to fade, and in some cases, completely disappeared. An Australian
study followed 500 people over a 10 year period and noted that there
had never been any allergic reactions from emu oil reported. Other benefits
from this study are summarized in three areas:
Skin
- Eczema - reduce irritation and inflammation of the skin
- Keloids - significantly reduces recent keloid scarring
- Burns - appears to promote faster healing with less pain
and scarring
- Donor sites in skin grafting - reduced pain and less scarring
- Psoriasis - limited benefit in some patients
Joints
- Joint pain - reduced pain, swelling, and stiffness most evident
where the joint is close to the skin surface, such as hands, feet, knees,
and elbows.
- Bruising and muscle pain - significant benefit to recent bruising
and muscle pain where injury is relatively superficial. Significant
reduction in sports related muscle strains post-excersize emu oil massage.
Recent Wounds
- Epithelialized wounds - reduced scar tissue formation, soothing
of wounds after surgery by anti-inflammatory action.
A nine-month study of 10 burn patients at a burn center in Texas showed
that patient comments almost unanimously favored emu oil as an end result
and during application. There was also a unanimous difference noted
in photographs taken of the wounds as far as reduction in scarring and
inflammation in control areas treated with emu oil. Many chiropractors
and physical therapists are using emu oil in their practices. Relief
is quicker and muscles stay relaxed longer, therefore treatments last
longer.
Emu oil appears to be one of the undiscovered secrets of the modern
world. As a natural ingredient that has enjoyed a treasured place among
the ancient peoples of Australia for centuries, it has just begun to
share its benefits to the industrialized world in the last decade. This
natural remedy has already found a place in the international cosmetic
marketplace and aggressive research and marketing by companies who have
identified its beneficial value are racing for the lead in a competitive
marketplace.
A growing cache of testimonials, research data, and unmistakable benefits
from the oil has lead to an exploration of a myriad of commercial applications.
It has invited the scrutiny of the medical profession, the scientific
community and the health-conscious consumer to explore the health related
aspects of the oil. It shows promising benefits as an organic additive
in applications as diverse as medicine, food, and even industrial equipment.
This natural substance offers the benefits of pain relief without the
side effects of harsh drugs. No other oil offers the versatility of
emu oil.