Emu Oil May Help Eczema

Eczema is itchy, painful, and uncomfortable. Thought to be caused by too little of a certain skin protein (filaggrin), eczema results when there is damage to the normal cell barriers of the skin. As a result, skin becomes dry, flaky, and cracked. When skin is dry, flaky, and cracked, it's only a matter of time before it bleeds, or worse, becomes infected.

The skin's main function is to act as a barrier, keeping our insides in, and the outside out. When this barrier is ineffective, toxins and pollutants can enter the body, causing damage.

While much has been written about eczema treatment, the fact remains that not all treatments work for all people. As a result, there is often a need for additional information in the treatment of eczema and other skin diseases.

One more treatment option for eczema may be emu oil.

Emu oil, as it sounds, comes from emus, a type of large bird, loosely resembling an ostritch. The emu oil, itself, is rendered from a section of fat on the back, which yields about 5-7 liters of oil. It has been used for thousands of years by the Aborigines of Australia, and is prized for its healing powers.

Modern research confirms that emu oil contains Vitamin E and A (antioxidants), linoleic and oleic acids (which ease pain and regenerate skin cells), as well as skin softeners and antiseptics. Emu oil also has anti-inflammatory properties on par with ibuprofen.

Emu oil does not clog pores, and does not promote the growth of bacteria. It absorbs quickly, and penetrates deeply.

It has been shown that emu oil soothes and calms eczematic skin, while it also absorbs quickly and creates a barrier against further damage. It reduces pain and infection, and can lessen scarring. It has been shown, also, to improve other skin problems, such as wrinkles and stretch marks.

If you are looking for an alternative for management of your eczema, consider emu oil.