EMU OIL: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Emu oil comes from the fat of a large, flightless bird called the emu. The emu is native to Australia and is now farmed in the US, Canada, and Europe.

Emu oil contains chemicals called fatty acids. These chemicals might reduce pain and swelling. Emu oil also has moisturizing and cosmetic properties similar to mineral oil.

People use emu oil for hair loss, eczema, burns, high cholesterol, psoriasis, wound healing, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for EMU OIL overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: There isn't enough reliable information to know if emu oil is safe or what the side effects might be.

When applied to the skin: Emu oil is possibly safe when used for up to 8 weeks. It's usually well-tolerated.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if emu oil is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions

We currently have no information for EMU OIL overview.

Dosing

In adults, emu oil has most often been applied to affected areas of the skin 2-3 times daily for up to 8 weeks. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

REFERENCES:

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Luo Y, Hou X, Xi A, Luo M, Wang K, Xu Z. Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F combination therapy with methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis: An updated meta-analysis. J Ethnopharmacol 2023;307:116211. View abstract.

Luo Y, Kuai L, Chen J, et al. Efficacy and safety of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. for oral lichen planus: evidence from 18 randomized controlled trials. Phytother Res 2020. Online ahead of print. View abstract.

Lv QW, Zhang W, Shi Q, et al. Comparison of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F with methotrexate in the treatment of active rheumatoid arthritis (TRIFRA): a randomised, controlled clinical trial. Ann Rheum Dis. 2015;74(6):1078-86. View abstract.

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Ren D, Zuo C, Xu G. Clinical efficacy and safety of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook in the treatment of diabetic kidney disease stage IV: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Medicine (Baltimore). 2019;98(11):e14604. View abstract.

Ren J, Wu X, Liao N, et al. Prevention of postoperative recurrence of Crohn's disease: Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside versus mesalazine. J Int Med Res. 2013;41(1):176-87. View abstract.

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Takei A, Nagashima G, Suzuki R, et al. Meningoencephalocele associated with Tripterygium wilfordii treatment. Pediatr Neurosurg 1997;27:45-8. View abstract.

Tao X, Cush JJ, Garret M, Lipsky PE. A phase I study of ethyl acetate extract of the chinese antirheumatic herb Tripterygium wilfordii hook F in rheumatoid arthritis. J Rheumatol 2001;28:2160-7.. View abstract.

Tao X, Davis LS, Lipsky PE. Effect of an extract of the Chinese herbal remedy Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F on human immune responsiveness. Arthritis Rheum 1991;34:1274-81. View abstract.

Tao X, Younger J, Fan FZ, et al. Benefit of an extract of Tripterygium Wilfordii Hook F in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Arthritis Rheum 2002;46:1735-43.. View abstract.

Tao XL, Sun Y, Dong Y, et al. A prospective, controlled, double-blind, cross-over study of tripterygium wilfodii hook F in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Chin Med J 1989;102:327-32. View abstract.

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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EMU OIL - Uses, Side Effects, and More