An Analysis of Emu Oil
This article began as a study, resulting from a curiosity about the therapeutic qualities of Emu Oil. After beginning research on Emu Oil, I was very frustrated, as I found many claims, but few specific references about the components of the oil. I was able to extract bits of information from various producers and promoters. I had reports from people claiming it help them, and reports from other�s that it is no different than well marketed chicken fat.
This is an analysis of Emu Oil in topical applications. I'm not intending to knock or praise, just analyze. Some readers may not appreciate what I discover here. There are many claims, which at times border on the �miraculous� for Emu oil. This article will examine the individual fatty acids that comprise Emu oil, looks at their effects on the skin, and reference other emollients of the same or similar composition. The goal is to find what distinguishes Emu Oil from all other oils.
First, what is Emu Oil? An Emu is a very large terrestrial bird native to Australia and is a cousin of the ostrich. The bird is farmed for meat in many nations. After the bird is processed for food, the fat is taken from the tail portion. Then the fat is melted down, and the result is further refined and de-odorized. Often Vitamin E is added to extend the shelf life.
From the Blue Stuff site:
"�Emu oil contains a high level of Linoleic acid (C 18:2), a substance known to temporarily ease joint discomfort, and oleic acid (C 18:1), a powerful local anti-inflammatory�"
Let's start with Linoleic Acid, also refereed to as Omega � 6 (Gamma Linoleic Acid is also an Omega -6), and considered healthy dietary fat found in foods. It part of the Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) that we humans must get for our diet as our bodies can't make it for us.
Other things high in Linoleic Acid (C18:2) include:
Safflower Seed Oil (60-80%)
Sunflower Seed Oil (70-76%)
Evening Primrose Oil (65-76%)
Grape Seed Oil (60-78%)
Hemp Seed Oil (52-62%)
Walnut Seed Oil (45-65%)
Black Current Oil (43-48%)
Wheat Germ Oil (35-60%)
Emu Oil (17-20%)
As you can see Linolenic Acid is a common type of fat. It is found in high percentages in many of our pressed oils used in Aroma Therapy and Massage Therapy. It appears to have a healthy effect on the skin. Emu�s percentage of Linolenic is lower than many oils, but at a healthy nearly 20%.