We’ve been using emu oil for years to take the sting out of insect bites. Pure oil alone will reduce the itching and pain. Emu Oil has been shown to work as a naturally occurring analgesic although as yet the individual compounds responsible have not been isolated. More research has been done on the anti –inflammatory qualities of the oil. These studies show clearly the anti-inflammatory properties of the oil, but again have not isolated individual compounds.
What we can tell you is that if you are bit or stung, pure emu oil will relieve the itch and reduce the swelling. When combined with menthol or other natural ingredients which have also shown analgesic qualities the reduction is more effective.
A number of people also seem to suffer a post infection stage from insect bites. They are left with small red dots for long periods of time after the initial bite. Applying emu oil enhances the healing process and reduces scarring.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Try Something New - Try Emu
Emu is a very lean (97% fat free) red meat similar to beef in both taste and appearance. Emu are higher in protein, vitamin C and iron compared to beef; lower in cholesterol compared to chicken. Emu gives red meat lovers what they want and health conscious consumers what they need. In fact, the American Heart Association recognizes emu meat as a healthy alternative to beef.
Tips for Cooking Emu Meat
The tenderness and texture of emu meat enables it to be prepared in a variety of ways. It is best prepared lightly grilled or pan fried. Though emu meat has similar characteristics to extra lean beef, there are also some differences. Emu meat is very dark with little or no marbling. Since most fat is deposited in a layer between the meat and the hide, the meat has very little fat even on the outside of the cut.
Since emu is low in fat, it doesn't need to be cooked as long or with as high a temperature as most other meats. For broiling a steak, move the broiler rack down one notch from where you would broil beef. Turn the steak quicker than you would turn a beef steak. Emu is best when cooked rare to medium rare. Chopped or ground emu will cook faster than beef. Since it contains very little fat, it should be cooked at low temperatures. Shrinkage should be minimal due to the low fat content and slow cooking.
Emu Recipes
SALAD WITH EMU FILLET AND PEARS WRAPPED IN PANCETTA
Salad Ingredients: 1 pound emu fan fillet 3 pears ripe but not soft, 12 slices pancetta, small bunch red leaf lettuce, torn into pieces, handful of arugula stemmed.
Marinade Ingredients: 2 cloves garlic roughly chopped, 2 sprigs lemon thyme crumbled, 1 cup olive oil, 1/2 cup red wine, 2 crushed black peppercorns and 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar.
Pear Vinaigrette Ingredients: 1 pear peeled, 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/2 tablespoon honey, 1 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
To make the marinade: Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Place the emu in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before cooking. For best results and flavor, leave for up to 72 hours.
To make the vinaigrette: Peel pear and cut in half lengthwise, remove core and cut up into small pieces. Combine the pear pieces, balsamic vinegar, and honey in a saucepan, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer gently until the pear softens. Remove from heat and puree. Cool, and whisk in the olive oil. Season to taste.
Peel and core the pears for the salad. Cut each pear in half lengthwise, then cut each half into three pieces lengthwise. Wrap each pear piece in pancetta and secure with a toothpick.
Remove the emu from the marinade and place in a saut頰an with the wrapped pears. Sear over high heat until the emu is rare to medium rare and the pancetta is crisp. Do not overcook emu. It is very lean and will dry out. Remove from the heat and rest for 3 minutes to let the juices reabsorb.
To serve, toss 1/2 the dressing through the lettuce and arugula, reserving the rest. Place salad on plate, slice the emu into thin slices and arrange on top of salad with the pancetta-wrapped pears. Drizzle the reserved dressing over the salad. Serves 2.
EMU STUFFED BELL PEPPERS
From Kristine Elison at Portabella Catering of Amherst, MA
Makes 10 portions - great recipe for a party
10 Medium size bell pepper 6 - 8 oz.
A combination of red, yellow, orange and green is best.
1 pound ground emu
2 Tbs olive oil
1/4 cup garlic-minced
1 cup red onion-diced
1 cup fresh corn
4 cups ground tomatoes
3 cups cooked brown basmati rice
2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
2 Tbs fresh parsley-chopped
1/4 cup scallions- chopped
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1 cup gorgonzola cheese-crumbled
2 tsp kosher salt
to taste - fresh ground pepper
Preheat oven to 350. Cut tops off of peppers, dice and set aside. Clean insides of seeds, and place in muffin tins.
Saute Garlic and onion in a large skillet with olive oil for 5 minutes over medium heat. Add emu, balsamic vinegar, cayenne pepper, cumin and 1 tsp of salt. Cook emu until browned.
Transfer emu to large mixing bowl. Add rice, diced pepper tops, fresh corn, ground tomatoes, parsley, scallions and 1/2 cup gorgonzola cheese. Season with remaining salt and fresh pepper.
Stuff bell peppers and top with remaining gorgonzola cheese. Bake in muffin tins for 30 minutes or until peppers are soft and stuffing is hot.
EMU KABOBS
1 lb. emu fillet
1 onion, chopped
1 inch fresh ginger root, grated
3 Tbsp. lemon juice
4 Tbsp. soy sauce
3 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. sesame oil
Mix together marinade ingredients. Cut emu fillet into cubes. Marinade meat for 1 hour in refrigerator. Thread meat onto bamboo skewers (previously soaked in water for 10 minutes). Broil or grill over hot coals, brushing with marinade, until done. Serves 4.
SPICY ROASTED EMU
2 small emu fillets
½ tsp. cardamom seeds
2 tsp. Juniper berries
1 Tbsp. cracked pepper
2 tsp. coriander seeds
2 cloves garlic
2 Tbsp. flavored vinegar (either balsamic or raspberry)
1 Tbsp. olive oil
Crush spices and garlic together. Rub mixture liberally over fillets, coating thickly. Refrigerate for one or two hours. Heat olive oil in pan; when hot add fillets and sear on all sides. Transfer to baking dish and cook in a hot oven (450º F) for 8-12 minutes. Remove from baking dish and allow meat to set by standing in a warm place for 15-30 minutes. Slice diagonally, fan on serving plate and serve with Balsamic Jus Sauce.
BALSAMIC JUS SAUCE
1 cup low-fat beef broth
1 cup port or red wine
1 Tbsp. red currant jelly
2-3 tsp. balsamic vinegar to taste
¾ stick unsalted butter, cut into small cubes (to reduce fat, use 2 Tbsp. fat-free natural butter flavor sprinkles and increase wine to 1½ cup)
Boil stock, wine and red currant jelly together until mixture thickens and is reduced by one-third. Whisk in butter cubes or butter sprinkles, a few cubes or tablespoons at a time. Add balsamic vinegar.
Tips for Cooking Emu Meat
The tenderness and texture of emu meat enables it to be prepared in a variety of ways. It is best prepared lightly grilled or pan fried. Though emu meat has similar characteristics to extra lean beef, there are also some differences. Emu meat is very dark with little or no marbling. Since most fat is deposited in a layer between the meat and the hide, the meat has very little fat even on the outside of the cut.
Since emu is low in fat, it doesn't need to be cooked as long or with as high a temperature as most other meats. For broiling a steak, move the broiler rack down one notch from where you would broil beef. Turn the steak quicker than you would turn a beef steak. Emu is best when cooked rare to medium rare. Chopped or ground emu will cook faster than beef. Since it contains very little fat, it should be cooked at low temperatures. Shrinkage should be minimal due to the low fat content and slow cooking.
Emu Recipes
SALAD WITH EMU FILLET AND PEARS WRAPPED IN PANCETTA
Salad Ingredients: 1 pound emu fan fillet 3 pears ripe but not soft, 12 slices pancetta, small bunch red leaf lettuce, torn into pieces, handful of arugula stemmed.
Marinade Ingredients: 2 cloves garlic roughly chopped, 2 sprigs lemon thyme crumbled, 1 cup olive oil, 1/2 cup red wine, 2 crushed black peppercorns and 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar.
Pear Vinaigrette Ingredients: 1 pear peeled, 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/2 tablespoon honey, 1 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
To make the marinade: Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Place the emu in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before cooking. For best results and flavor, leave for up to 72 hours.
To make the vinaigrette: Peel pear and cut in half lengthwise, remove core and cut up into small pieces. Combine the pear pieces, balsamic vinegar, and honey in a saucepan, bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer gently until the pear softens. Remove from heat and puree. Cool, and whisk in the olive oil. Season to taste.
Peel and core the pears for the salad. Cut each pear in half lengthwise, then cut each half into three pieces lengthwise. Wrap each pear piece in pancetta and secure with a toothpick.
Remove the emu from the marinade and place in a saut頰an with the wrapped pears. Sear over high heat until the emu is rare to medium rare and the pancetta is crisp. Do not overcook emu. It is very lean and will dry out. Remove from the heat and rest for 3 minutes to let the juices reabsorb.
To serve, toss 1/2 the dressing through the lettuce and arugula, reserving the rest. Place salad on plate, slice the emu into thin slices and arrange on top of salad with the pancetta-wrapped pears. Drizzle the reserved dressing over the salad. Serves 2.
EMU STUFFED BELL PEPPERS
From Kristine Elison at Portabella Catering of Amherst, MA
Makes 10 portions - great recipe for a party
10 Medium size bell pepper 6 - 8 oz.
A combination of red, yellow, orange and green is best.
1 pound ground emu
2 Tbs olive oil
1/4 cup garlic-minced
1 cup red onion-diced
1 cup fresh corn
4 cups ground tomatoes
3 cups cooked brown basmati rice
2 Tbs balsamic vinegar
2 Tbs fresh parsley-chopped
1/4 cup scallions- chopped
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1 cup gorgonzola cheese-crumbled
2 tsp kosher salt
to taste - fresh ground pepper
Preheat oven to 350. Cut tops off of peppers, dice and set aside. Clean insides of seeds, and place in muffin tins.
Saute Garlic and onion in a large skillet with olive oil for 5 minutes over medium heat. Add emu, balsamic vinegar, cayenne pepper, cumin and 1 tsp of salt. Cook emu until browned.
Transfer emu to large mixing bowl. Add rice, diced pepper tops, fresh corn, ground tomatoes, parsley, scallions and 1/2 cup gorgonzola cheese. Season with remaining salt and fresh pepper.
Stuff bell peppers and top with remaining gorgonzola cheese. Bake in muffin tins for 30 minutes or until peppers are soft and stuffing is hot.
EMU KABOBS
1 lb. emu fillet
1 onion, chopped
1 inch fresh ginger root, grated
3 Tbsp. lemon juice
4 Tbsp. soy sauce
3 Tbsp. brown sugar
1 tsp. sesame oil
Mix together marinade ingredients. Cut emu fillet into cubes. Marinade meat for 1 hour in refrigerator. Thread meat onto bamboo skewers (previously soaked in water for 10 minutes). Broil or grill over hot coals, brushing with marinade, until done. Serves 4.
SPICY ROASTED EMU
2 small emu fillets
½ tsp. cardamom seeds
2 tsp. Juniper berries
1 Tbsp. cracked pepper
2 tsp. coriander seeds
2 cloves garlic
2 Tbsp. flavored vinegar (either balsamic or raspberry)
1 Tbsp. olive oil
Crush spices and garlic together. Rub mixture liberally over fillets, coating thickly. Refrigerate for one or two hours. Heat olive oil in pan; when hot add fillets and sear on all sides. Transfer to baking dish and cook in a hot oven (450º F) for 8-12 minutes. Remove from baking dish and allow meat to set by standing in a warm place for 15-30 minutes. Slice diagonally, fan on serving plate and serve with Balsamic Jus Sauce.
BALSAMIC JUS SAUCE
1 cup low-fat beef broth
1 cup port or red wine
1 Tbsp. red currant jelly
2-3 tsp. balsamic vinegar to taste
¾ stick unsalted butter, cut into small cubes (to reduce fat, use 2 Tbsp. fat-free natural butter flavor sprinkles and increase wine to 1½ cup)
Boil stock, wine and red currant jelly together until mixture thickens and is reduced by one-third. Whisk in butter cubes or butter sprinkles, a few cubes or tablespoons at a time. Add balsamic vinegar.
Emu Oil and Burns
One of the most amazing things emu oil can do is assist the body in healing from burns. Whether from sun; fire; chemicals; radiation or friction - emu oil has been found to relieve pain, reduce swelling and redness, speed the healing process and minimize scarring.
When applied to sunburned skin it immediately cools and takes away pain and tightness. We've seen many very painful sunburns fade without blistering or peeling. Emu Oil’s bio-nutrients then assist the body to repair the skin from sun damage so it’s a good idea to continue to apply the oil even after the redness has gone.
For burn testimonial and Hamar Burn Center Study results.
When applied to sunburned skin it immediately cools and takes away pain and tightness. We've seen many very painful sunburns fade without blistering or peeling. Emu Oil’s bio-nutrients then assist the body to repair the skin from sun damage so it’s a good idea to continue to apply the oil even after the redness has gone.
For burn testimonial and Hamar Burn Center Study results.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Emus Infiltrate Eastern Space Exposition in West Springfield MA
For many New Englanders the Eastern States Exposition or “Big E” heralds the turn of seasons as it places the bounty of early autumn on display. This is New England's largest fair. Top name entertainment, major exhibits, history and agriculture, animals, rides, shopping, crafts, a daily parade and foods from around the world for 17 glorious days - September 17th – October 4th,
Holding strongly to its agricultural roots livestock still takes front stage for many of the scheduled events. Dairy judging, milking contests, oxen-pulls, sheep, poultry and horse shows and dog herding demonstrations abound. But over the last few years a new animal has been infiltrating New England agriculture – the Emu. And while you may not catch site of the birds themselves you will have the opportunity to learn a bit more about them and sample their products from some of the exhibitors.
Vermont Prime Emu Producers (VPEP) staffs a booth in the Vermont building where you can purchase a large assortment of emu oil products for health and beauty. The booth is manned by friends and family of the 4 farms which banded together to form VPEP. Representatives from Riverside Emus, Emus of Vermont, Bob-O-Link Farm, and Neshobe Farm are always happy to talk about the birds and emu farming. Just be warned their products have become so popular that it is not uncommon for a long line to form before their booth.
In the Massachusetts Building, the Chili Station, producers of award winning chili have specially crafted a new chili for this year – Emu Chili. Proprietor Jeff Belkin says that he is very “pleased with the taste of this new recipe and loves the heart healthy nature of the meat”. The ground emu comes from Songline Emu Farm of Gill MA.
On Massachusetts day, Thursday, Sept 24th, the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture will be giving awards to the winners of the 2010 Agricultural Calendar photo contest. 12 winning photos have been selected to be displayed in a beautiful calendar which represents the vitality and diversity of the Commonwealth’s farms, crops and products throughout the seasons.
One of the winning photos was taken by Dee Dee Mares of Songline Emu Farm in Gill MA showing 2 adorable emu chicks and an emerald green egg. Calendars will be available for sale inside the Massachusetts building.
So attend the fair, enjoy the beauty of this season and keep an eye out for the emus.
Holding strongly to its agricultural roots livestock still takes front stage for many of the scheduled events. Dairy judging, milking contests, oxen-pulls, sheep, poultry and horse shows and dog herding demonstrations abound. But over the last few years a new animal has been infiltrating New England agriculture – the Emu. And while you may not catch site of the birds themselves you will have the opportunity to learn a bit more about them and sample their products from some of the exhibitors.
Vermont Prime Emu Producers (VPEP) staffs a booth in the Vermont building where you can purchase a large assortment of emu oil products for health and beauty. The booth is manned by friends and family of the 4 farms which banded together to form VPEP. Representatives from Riverside Emus, Emus of Vermont, Bob-O-Link Farm, and Neshobe Farm are always happy to talk about the birds and emu farming. Just be warned their products have become so popular that it is not uncommon for a long line to form before their booth.
In the Massachusetts Building, the Chili Station, producers of award winning chili have specially crafted a new chili for this year – Emu Chili. Proprietor Jeff Belkin says that he is very “pleased with the taste of this new recipe and loves the heart healthy nature of the meat”. The ground emu comes from Songline Emu Farm of Gill MA.
On Massachusetts day, Thursday, Sept 24th, the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture will be giving awards to the winners of the 2010 Agricultural Calendar photo contest. 12 winning photos have been selected to be displayed in a beautiful calendar which represents the vitality and diversity of the Commonwealth’s farms, crops and products throughout the seasons.
One of the winning photos was taken by Dee Dee Mares of Songline Emu Farm in Gill MA showing 2 adorable emu chicks and an emerald green egg. Calendars will be available for sale inside the Massachusetts building.
So attend the fair, enjoy the beauty of this season and keep an eye out for the emus.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Jenny McCarthy - Author, Actress, Activist, Comedian, Model Uses Emu Oil
Jenny McCarthy recently thanked emus for her beautiful complexion. Quoting from Entertainment Today
"The 36-year-old star is a huge fan of the unusual beauty product – which is made from the fat of the giant birds – and is convinced it helps her fight the ageing process.
A source told the National Enquirer magazine: “Jenny loves the oil because it sinks deeper into the skin than other oils – and it’s so incredibly potent at fighting off wrinkles, she applies it just once every two days.”
Emu oil has long been lauded for its anti-ageing properties, and is also said to help wounds and burns heal.
Jenny is not the only star said to be enamoured with the moisturiser - Goldie Hawn and Demi Moore are also said to be fans.
‘High School Musical’ star Zac Efron also stocked up on jars of the cream after having his appendix removed last year.
A source said at the time: “Zac applies emu oil daily to a scar he got from his appendectomy earlier this year. He can't handle having imperfect abs and the oil, which is made from the bird's fat is said to fade scars. It is already working.”
I would also like to take a moment to bring one of Jenny's passionate interests to your attention. She has teamed up with Jim Carey to create an organization called Generation Rescue. This is an international movement of scientists and physicians researching the causes and treatments for autism, ADHD and chronic illness, while parent-volunteers mentor thousands of families in recovering their children. Watch this quick video intro by Jim and Jenny.
Jenny has also recently co-authored with Dr. Jerry Kartzinel a new book "Healing and Preventing Autism Today"
If you know someone with an autistic child please refer them to this book and organization. There is alot of help out there for them.
"The 36-year-old star is a huge fan of the unusual beauty product – which is made from the fat of the giant birds – and is convinced it helps her fight the ageing process.
A source told the National Enquirer magazine: “Jenny loves the oil because it sinks deeper into the skin than other oils – and it’s so incredibly potent at fighting off wrinkles, she applies it just once every two days.”
Emu oil has long been lauded for its anti-ageing properties, and is also said to help wounds and burns heal.
Jenny is not the only star said to be enamoured with the moisturiser - Goldie Hawn and Demi Moore are also said to be fans.
‘High School Musical’ star Zac Efron also stocked up on jars of the cream after having his appendix removed last year.
A source said at the time: “Zac applies emu oil daily to a scar he got from his appendectomy earlier this year. He can't handle having imperfect abs and the oil, which is made from the bird's fat is said to fade scars. It is already working.”
I would also like to take a moment to bring one of Jenny's passionate interests to your attention. She has teamed up with Jim Carey to create an organization called Generation Rescue. This is an international movement of scientists and physicians researching the causes and treatments for autism, ADHD and chronic illness, while parent-volunteers mentor thousands of families in recovering their children. Watch this quick video intro by Jim and Jenny.
Jenny has also recently co-authored with Dr. Jerry Kartzinel a new book "Healing and Preventing Autism Today"
If you know someone with an autistic child please refer them to this book and organization. There is alot of help out there for them.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
How Emu Oil Relieves Muscle and Joint Pain
Pure emu oil alone has shown the ability to relieve pain and decrease the inflammation associated with many conditions from arthritis, burstitis, tendonitis to injuries and fibromyalgia. The potency of the anti-inflammatory effect from Emu Oil is similar to ibuprofen without the negative side-effects frequently common with non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) or corticosteroid based anti-inflammatory medications.
One of the most impressive studies was one done by Drs. Whitehouse and Ghosh in Australia. Each of these clinicians has over 25 years of experience and published extensively on the evaluation and development of drugs used for arthritis. They applied straight emu oil over a 14 day period to participants with chronic pain due to arthritis, joint swelling and bone abrasion due to lack of cartilage. Day 1 showed 1% improvement, day 4 – 30%, day 5- 50%, day 11 – 82% and by day 14 - 100% pain reduction. Swelling was also measured. Day 1 – 2% improvement, day 6 – 22%, day 12 – 40%, and by day 14 – 100%.
For people with allergies or skin sensitivities I recommend massaging pure emu oil into the muscle or joint a couple of times a day. The oil will work to reduce inflammation. This process will build on itself and best results will be seen in 5 - 7 days.
If a person is not allergic or sensitive to mint or pepper plant derivatives like menthol or capsicum I recommend trying a formulated pain cream using emu oil as the base carrier. Emu oil’s strong transdermal abilities allow it to penetrate deep through multiple layers of skin, muscle and cartilage while taking other encapsulated compounds along for the ride. This process has been coined by Doctors as “the emu oil express”. Formulations which mix emu oil with other natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic compounds like arnica oil, menthol, capsicum, MSM, willow-bark, witch hazel etc. can be very powerful.
Formulated emu pain relief creams work in a twofold manner. First the mint or pepper plant derivatives work to quickly override nerve signals to the brain. The person will feel coolness or warmth as a “mask” instead of the pain. This alone doesn’t offer a long term solution to a chronic condition – but it feels better instantly and reminds one to reapply the cream a few times a day.
Then the other ingredients like the emu oil, arnica, willow bark, witch-hazel, MSM etc. work to increase blood flow, so that toxins and waste materials can be removed from the site to reduce inflammation and swelling while providing nutrient materials and oxygen to encourage new cell growth.
Watch for emu oil content - some products have only 5% emu oil. Studies indicate that a minimum 12-15% emu oil appears necessary to maintain the oils anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally some products propose to carry compounds such as chondrotin and glucosamine through the skin. Initial studies indicate that these molecules are too large to pass through the skin and are more effective when taken orally. This too is an area requiring more research.
Additionally for those with chronic inflammatory pain issues I recommend taking emu oil as a dietary supplement. A few drops a day can be mixed into food or your smoothie. It is not unpleasant tasting – just a bit “oily”. Some people prefer to take gel caps. Emu oil provides a blend of Omega 3, 6 and 9 essential fatty acids, which have been proven to not only reduce inflammation but also greatly improve cholesterol levels, skin conditions and elevate mood and energy levels.
Some studies have indicated that certain ratios of the Omegas are better for optimal results. Because of that you may see Emu Oil blended with other oils like Flax Seed for an Omega 3 boost. Ingesting emu oil in either fashion can replace fish oil in your diet with the same or better results and no fish burps.
You will find that most members of the American Emu Association offer a money back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied with the results. This has been fairly standard in our industry to encourage consumers to feel comfortable trying a new product and because we believe so strongly in the oils properties. So give emu oil a try you have nothing to lose but the pain.
One of the most impressive studies was one done by Drs. Whitehouse and Ghosh in Australia. Each of these clinicians has over 25 years of experience and published extensively on the evaluation and development of drugs used for arthritis. They applied straight emu oil over a 14 day period to participants with chronic pain due to arthritis, joint swelling and bone abrasion due to lack of cartilage. Day 1 showed 1% improvement, day 4 – 30%, day 5- 50%, day 11 – 82% and by day 14 - 100% pain reduction. Swelling was also measured. Day 1 – 2% improvement, day 6 – 22%, day 12 – 40%, and by day 14 – 100%.
For people with allergies or skin sensitivities I recommend massaging pure emu oil into the muscle or joint a couple of times a day. The oil will work to reduce inflammation. This process will build on itself and best results will be seen in 5 - 7 days.
If a person is not allergic or sensitive to mint or pepper plant derivatives like menthol or capsicum I recommend trying a formulated pain cream using emu oil as the base carrier. Emu oil’s strong transdermal abilities allow it to penetrate deep through multiple layers of skin, muscle and cartilage while taking other encapsulated compounds along for the ride. This process has been coined by Doctors as “the emu oil express”. Formulations which mix emu oil with other natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic compounds like arnica oil, menthol, capsicum, MSM, willow-bark, witch hazel etc. can be very powerful.
Formulated emu pain relief creams work in a twofold manner. First the mint or pepper plant derivatives work to quickly override nerve signals to the brain. The person will feel coolness or warmth as a “mask” instead of the pain. This alone doesn’t offer a long term solution to a chronic condition – but it feels better instantly and reminds one to reapply the cream a few times a day.
Then the other ingredients like the emu oil, arnica, willow bark, witch-hazel, MSM etc. work to increase blood flow, so that toxins and waste materials can be removed from the site to reduce inflammation and swelling while providing nutrient materials and oxygen to encourage new cell growth.
Watch for emu oil content - some products have only 5% emu oil. Studies indicate that a minimum 12-15% emu oil appears necessary to maintain the oils anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally some products propose to carry compounds such as chondrotin and glucosamine through the skin. Initial studies indicate that these molecules are too large to pass through the skin and are more effective when taken orally. This too is an area requiring more research.
Additionally for those with chronic inflammatory pain issues I recommend taking emu oil as a dietary supplement. A few drops a day can be mixed into food or your smoothie. It is not unpleasant tasting – just a bit “oily”. Some people prefer to take gel caps. Emu oil provides a blend of Omega 3, 6 and 9 essential fatty acids, which have been proven to not only reduce inflammation but also greatly improve cholesterol levels, skin conditions and elevate mood and energy levels.
Some studies have indicated that certain ratios of the Omegas are better for optimal results. Because of that you may see Emu Oil blended with other oils like Flax Seed for an Omega 3 boost. Ingesting emu oil in either fashion can replace fish oil in your diet with the same or better results and no fish burps.
You will find that most members of the American Emu Association offer a money back guarantee if you are not completely satisfied with the results. This has been fairly standard in our industry to encourage consumers to feel comfortable trying a new product and because we believe so strongly in the oils properties. So give emu oil a try you have nothing to lose but the pain.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
What Is So Special About Emu Oil?
Emu oil has been used for thousands of years by the Australian aborigines for the treatment of burns, wounds, bruises, and as a pain reliever for bone, muscle, and joints. Labs are currently analyzing the oil to determine how it works. Studies conducted have shown:
Emu Oil has highly trans-dermal capabilities. Emu Oil gets through skin, nails and hair. Skin is your body's largest organ. Its job is to keep foreign elements out of your system. Emu oil penetrates the skin only because it is so chemically similar. First it is comprised of almost 100% triglycerides (fatty compounds also called lipids); second none of the lipids contain phosphorus, and third a large number of these fatty compounds are oleic acid, also known as Omega 9. Your skin has abundant triglycerides and so recognizes the Emu Oils essentially similar nature. Being phosphorus deficient your skin blocks any compounds which contain phosphorus - Emu Oil's lack of the mineral means that blocking responses are not triggered (most petro based oils contain phosphorus); and finally Omega 9 in Emu Oil works as a carrier to encapsulate other ingredients and bring them through the skin.
Emu Oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown emu oil to aid in the relief of joint and muscle pain and inflammation. The potency of the anti-inflammatory effect from Emu Oil is similar to ibuprofen without the negative side-effects frequently common with non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) or corticosteroid based anti-inflammatory medications.
One of the most impressive studies was one done by Drs. Whitehouse and Ghosh in Australia. Each of these clinicians has over 25 years of experience and published extensively on the evaluation and development of drugs used for arthritis. They applied straight emu oil over a 14 day period to participants with chronic pain due to arthritis, joint swelling and bone abrasion due to lack of cartilage. Day 1 showed 1% improvement, day 4 – 30%, day 5- 50%, day 11 – 82% and by day 14 - 100% pain reduction. Swelling was also measured. Day 1 – 2% improvement, day 6 – 22%, day 12 – 40%, and by day 14 – 100%.
Emu Oil appears to “fine tune” the body’s healing and reduces scarring. Emu oil contains eicosanoids, hormone like compounds that trigger your body to increase blood flow and oxygenation down to the cellular level. Eicosanoids also affect membrane and even cell permeability. This assists the body to bring in oxygen and new raw materials and take away toxins. Additionally, swelling of injured tissue brings in extra collagen and fibroblasts (connective tissue cells) which add to platelet aggregation and begin the scarring process. By keeping the pathways open emu oil speeds the healing process and reduces scarring.
These same processes appear to relieve symptoms of many inflammatory skin ailments like eczema, psoriasis and other dermatitis.
Emu Oil is biostatic. Bacteria, virus and fungus will not grow in emu oil. By using AEA certified oil you can feel comfortable that you are not bringing unwanted organisms to open and soft tissues like the inside of your mouth or an open wound.
Emu Oil has deep moisturizing properties. Emu Oil does more than just hydrate the skin – it delivers collagen, elastins, hyper-oxygenating eicosanoids and other nutrients to the deepest layers of tissue where new skins cells are created. This helps your skin regain lost elasticity and stimulate the collagen fiber network to regain tone and firmness. Studies have shown that emu oil applied twice a day for a 14 day period can thicken skin up to 30%, with an overall group average of 14%.
The remaining X-factor. As if all of these properties are not enough, there is still another enhanced healing and rejuvenation mechanism that renowned researcher and author Dr. Barry Sears has termed the "X" factor. It is not known if some particular unidentified compounds or specific ratio of compounds is creating enhanced healing. We will let you know when the researchers have more information on this unknown aspect of Emu Oil.
Emu Oil has highly trans-dermal capabilities. Emu Oil gets through skin, nails and hair. Skin is your body's largest organ. Its job is to keep foreign elements out of your system. Emu oil penetrates the skin only because it is so chemically similar. First it is comprised of almost 100% triglycerides (fatty compounds also called lipids); second none of the lipids contain phosphorus, and third a large number of these fatty compounds are oleic acid, also known as Omega 9. Your skin has abundant triglycerides and so recognizes the Emu Oils essentially similar nature. Being phosphorus deficient your skin blocks any compounds which contain phosphorus - Emu Oil's lack of the mineral means that blocking responses are not triggered (most petro based oils contain phosphorus); and finally Omega 9 in Emu Oil works as a carrier to encapsulate other ingredients and bring them through the skin.
Emu Oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown emu oil to aid in the relief of joint and muscle pain and inflammation. The potency of the anti-inflammatory effect from Emu Oil is similar to ibuprofen without the negative side-effects frequently common with non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) or corticosteroid based anti-inflammatory medications.
One of the most impressive studies was one done by Drs. Whitehouse and Ghosh in Australia. Each of these clinicians has over 25 years of experience and published extensively on the evaluation and development of drugs used for arthritis. They applied straight emu oil over a 14 day period to participants with chronic pain due to arthritis, joint swelling and bone abrasion due to lack of cartilage. Day 1 showed 1% improvement, day 4 – 30%, day 5- 50%, day 11 – 82% and by day 14 - 100% pain reduction. Swelling was also measured. Day 1 – 2% improvement, day 6 – 22%, day 12 – 40%, and by day 14 – 100%.
Emu Oil appears to “fine tune” the body’s healing and reduces scarring. Emu oil contains eicosanoids, hormone like compounds that trigger your body to increase blood flow and oxygenation down to the cellular level. Eicosanoids also affect membrane and even cell permeability. This assists the body to bring in oxygen and new raw materials and take away toxins. Additionally, swelling of injured tissue brings in extra collagen and fibroblasts (connective tissue cells) which add to platelet aggregation and begin the scarring process. By keeping the pathways open emu oil speeds the healing process and reduces scarring.
These same processes appear to relieve symptoms of many inflammatory skin ailments like eczema, psoriasis and other dermatitis.
Emu Oil is biostatic. Bacteria, virus and fungus will not grow in emu oil. By using AEA certified oil you can feel comfortable that you are not bringing unwanted organisms to open and soft tissues like the inside of your mouth or an open wound.
Emu Oil has deep moisturizing properties. Emu Oil does more than just hydrate the skin – it delivers collagen, elastins, hyper-oxygenating eicosanoids and other nutrients to the deepest layers of tissue where new skins cells are created. This helps your skin regain lost elasticity and stimulate the collagen fiber network to regain tone and firmness. Studies have shown that emu oil applied twice a day for a 14 day period can thicken skin up to 30%, with an overall group average of 14%.
The remaining X-factor. As if all of these properties are not enough, there is still another enhanced healing and rejuvenation mechanism that renowned researcher and author Dr. Barry Sears has termed the "X" factor. It is not known if some particular unidentified compounds or specific ratio of compounds is creating enhanced healing. We will let you know when the researchers have more information on this unknown aspect of Emu Oil.
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