Widely believed to be first used by native Australians for centuries, it has only been recently that practitioners of western medicine have taken notice of the uses and health benefits of emu oil. Harvested from the oil glands of the emu bird, this oil is now slowly gaining attention and popularity outside of Australia as a result of studies made on the benefits derived from it. This article will focus on the health benefits it can bring for the skin.
After the oil is harvested, it is aged for some months to create high-grade oil rich in omega-3 and omega-6. Omega-3 is a fatty acid that is believed to promote cardiovascular health. It is also helpful in regulating blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Meanwhile, omega-6 is a linoleic acid that is essential in the formation of new cells. Thus, enough levels of this substance is required by the body to promote blood clotting and tissue repair. It is because of its omega-6 content that the oil from the emu is used as a carrier oil in various skin remedies. 
Studies have shown that it is one of the oils that can best penetrate the skin when applied externally. This property is highly valuable when treating burns since it can quickly aid in the repair of damaged tissue. As it can deeply penetrate the skin, it will promote skin repair at the cellular level. For pregnant women, it can reduce itchiness and discomfort caused by expanding skin, aside from reducing the chances of stretch marks appearing. When massaged to the scalp, it will promote hair growth since it can penetrate deeply into the hair shaft. It will also help in reducing instances of itchy and flaky scalp.
Unlike other carrier oils, it does not clog the pores or cause skin problems. Thus it can be safely used for various skin conditions such as eczema and acne. In the treatment of eczema, the hypoallergenic properties of the oil will not aggravate existing conditions. It is also ideal for acne treatment since it will not clog the pores, aside from being able to help maintain the healthy balance of natural oils in the skin.
There are a lot of exciting discoveries made by scientific studies on treatments that have been used by indigenous cultures and peoples, of which this oil is an example of. What has been known by these people is now proved by science. In the case of the emu oil, its Omega-6 content has been linked to skin health and well-being.