Alternative to Emu Oil
Emu oil has been heralded for its many uses as a joint and muscle reliever, moisturizer and anti-inflammatory. There are other products on the market, however, that may have similar or near-equal benefits. Ostrich oil, jojoba oil, olive oil and vitamin E oil are but a few of the alternatives to emu oil. Does this Spark an idea?
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Emu Oil
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Emu oil is extracted from a small pouch underneath the bulk of fat on an emu's back. It has been used for years by the Australian Aborigines, who would apply it to their aching joints and muscles. They would also apply it to open wounds to prevent infection.
Additionally, emu oil is used to moisturize the skin and to diminish scars. Recognized for its ability to hydrate even the most sensitive skin types, even those with serious skin issues like rosacea, eczema and psoriasis. It is even used instead of other cooking oils because it has been known to lower cholesterol.
Ostrich Oil
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Very similar to the emu, the ostrich also offers its own form of oil. Ostrich oil was first used by the Egyptians and Romans. Cleopatra famously applied the oil as part of her beauty routine. Both emu and ostrich oil are anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal remedies.
Like emu oil, ostrich oil is used as a moisturizer and anti-aging product, but it doesn't clog pores like emu oil does. Some prefer ostrich oil to emu oil because it contains a higher omega 3, 6 and 9 content. A higher omega content leads to increased skin cell turnover, thus creating younger-looking skin.
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Jojoba Oil
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The Native Americans of the Western United States and Northwest Mexico first used jojoba oil. They used it to soften their skin, to heal cuts and ate it as an appetite suppressant.
Vegans also often prefer jojoba oil to emu oil because of its natural plant origin. Jojoba oil is close in texture and composition to the sebum or oil that the human body naturally produces. The skin will quickly absorb the oil as a moisturizer without clogging pores or triggering breakouts. Many who cannot use emu oil can use jojoba oil more successfully. It also does not have the smell that many emu oils have.
Like emu oil, jojoba oil is often applied as an anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory option.
Emu oil is sometimes applied to the scalp to prevent and decrease hair loss. Although not useful for hair loss, jojoba oil can be applied to quench parched hair follicles.
Olive Oil
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Another alternative to emu oil is olive oil. Just as with emu oil, olive oil can also be used in cooking as a healthier option to decrease cholesterol levels.
It is also applied to increase shine and moisturize the hair if applied as a natural hot oil treatment. Emu oil remains unique in its ability to prevent hair loss.
Vitamin E Oil
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Although vitamin E is already present in emu oil, vitamin E oil itself is an alternative to emu oil. Vitamin E oil has a higher degree of antioxidants. It is also more commonly used to fade scars on the skin. And like emu oil, it is used to hydrate the skin and also gives a glow to the skin.
Grape Seed, Macadamia Nut and Tea Tree Oil
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If you are using emu oil to help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, grape seed and macadamia oil are other options that can help to increase skin cell turnover and thus decrease wrinkles.
Tea Tree oil is another alternative for those who are especially acne prone and are searching for a natural alternative to over-the-counter products. It similarly contains anti-fungal ingredients, making it especially useful for people who have athlete's foot. It is also added to many shampoos and conditioners due to its ability to help fight dandruff.
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