Emu oil in New Zealand: benefits, uses, safety, and how to choose
Quick answer: Emu oil is an oil rendered from emu fat. In NZ it is sold as a topical oil and as capsules. People use it for dry skin, massage, and general wellness, but human evidence is limited. Choose a product with clear labelling (purity, origin, and processing), start with a patch test, and check with your health professional if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, on medicines, or managing a health condition.
At Healthy Co, we get questions about emu oil all the time: what it is, what it can (and cannot) do, and how to pick a good one. This pillar guide covers the basics, practical ways to use emu oil, and what to look for when you are buying in NZ.
If you are shopping now, you can compare options in our Emu Oil collection or view our classic topical Emu Oil.
What is emu oil?
Emu oil is a pale yellow oil made by rendering and filtering the fat from the emu (a large flightless bird native to Australia). After rendering, the oil is refined to remove impurities and odour, then bottled for topical use or encapsulated for oral supplements.
What does emu oil contain?
Like many animal and plant oils, emu oil is mainly a blend of fats (fatty acids). Product labels and supplier specs often highlight:
- Oleic acid: a common fatty acid that can help oils spread easily and feel less heavy on the skin.
- Linoleic acid: a fatty acid that supports the skin barrier and is widely used in moisturising products.
- Other fats in smaller amounts: the exact profile varies by the animal, diet, and refining method.
The practical takeaway: emu oil behaves like a light emollient oil. It can improve the feel of dry skin and add slip for massage, but it is not a medicine.
Common emu oil uses in NZ
In NZ, emu oil is usually used in two ways: topical oil for skin and capsules for general wellness. Here are the most common reasons people reach for it:
- Dry, rough skin: as a moisturising oil for elbows, knees, hands, and cuticles.
- Massage: as a slip oil for self massage or sports massage.
- Minor skin discomfort: for soothing, especially when skin feels tight or irritated (not for open wounds).
- General wellbeing: as capsules, often positioned alongside other oils and fats.
These uses are based largely on traditional and cosmetic use, plus early-stage research. We recommend treating emu oil as a supportive product rather than a cure.
Does emu oil have proven benefits?
Research on emu oil is mixed and still developing. Some lab and animal studies suggest anti-inflammatory activity, while human studies are limited and often small. That means we should be careful about big promises.
What we can say with confidence is:
- It can act as an emollient: oils can reduce water loss from the skin and improve the feel of dry areas.
- It can support a simple routine: many people like having a single ingredient oil with no fragrance.
- It may feel soothing for massage: because it spreads easily and leaves a light after-feel.
- It is not a guaranteed treatment: for eczema, arthritis, or pain. If you have persistent symptoms, it is worth checking in with a GP, pharmacist, or physio.
If you want a shorter intro before this deep dive, you might also like our article What is emu oil and why is it good for you?.
Emu oil for skin
Dryness and skin barrier support
Most people notice emu oil in the same way they notice other moisturising oils: it can soften rough patches and reduce the tight feeling that comes with dryness. If your main goal is hydration, apply it after bathing, when skin is still slightly damp. This helps lock in water.
Redness, irritation, and sensitive skin
Some people use emu oil when their skin feels irritated. It may feel calming because it reduces friction and dryness, but irritation can have many causes. If you have persistent redness, itching, or cracking, it is best to get a diagnosis before trying lots of products.
Scars, stretch marks, and pigmentation
You will often see emu oil mentioned for scars or stretch marks. The evidence here is not strong. Massage itself can improve how skin feels and can help you stay consistent with moisturising, but we recommend being sceptical of products claiming guaranteed scar fading.
Emu oil for muscles and joints
Emu oil is popular with people who train, walk a lot, or spend long hours on their feet. Most of the benefit is likely from massage and moisturising, not from a specific medical effect.
- Massage benefit: self massage can help you feel looser and more comfortable after activity.
- Comfort support: an oil can reduce skin drag and make massage easier on tender areas.
If your pain is sharp, swollen, hot, or not improving, treat it as a sign to seek medical advice rather than something to rub away.
Topical emu oil: how to use it
Where to apply
Most people use emu oil on dry skin areas (hands, elbows, legs) or as a massage oil. For facial use, start with a very small amount and avoid the eye area.
How much to use
A little goes a long way. Apply a few drops to clean, slightly damp skin, then massage in. Reapply as needed. If you prefer a lighter feel, mix one drop into your usual moisturiser in your palm and apply together.
Patch test first
Even single ingredient oils can irritate sensitive skin. Patch test by applying a small amount to the inner forearm once daily for 2 to 3 days. If you develop redness, itching, or swelling, stop using it.
When not to use topical emu oil
- On open wounds or infected skin
- On areas with active dermatitis flare if you have not patch tested
- Right before intense sun exposure if your skin is already irritated
Emu oil capsules: what to know before you take them
Capsules are often marketed for joints, inflammation, and general wellbeing, but there is not enough high quality human evidence to say they reliably deliver those outcomes. If you are considering capsules, focus on safety and suitability first.
Typical directions and dose
Follow the label on your product. If you are comparing options, our Emu Caps listing is a handy place to review serving sizes and ingredients. We suggest avoiding mega-doses and being cautious if you already take other oils or supplements.
Who should check with a health professional first
- Pregnant or breastfeeding people
- Anyone with a bleeding disorder or taking blood-thinning medicines
- People with allergies to animal derived products
- Anyone preparing for surgery
- Anyone with ongoing symptoms they are trying to self treat
Can you take emu oil with other supplements?
Many people combine oils, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Interactions depend on the full stack, your health history, and medicines. If you are unsure, ask a pharmacist and bring a list of what you take, including doses.
Side effects and safety considerations
Topical emu oil is usually well tolerated, but reactions can happen. Possible issues include:
- Skin irritation, rash, or acne breakouts (especially on the face)
- Allergic reactions (rare, but possible)
- Staining on some fabrics
For capsules, the most common issues with oils and fats are stomach upset or reflux. Stop use if you feel unwell and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe or persistent.
How to choose a quality emu oil product in NZ
Quality varies. Here is what we look for when we stock emu oil:
- Clear ingredient list: ideally 100 percent emu oil for topical products, with no added fragrance.
- Processing and purity notes: look for details such as filtered, refined, or tested for purity.
- Packaging that protects the oil: dark bottles or packaging that limits light exposure can help preserve oils.
- Origin and traceability: reputable suppliers should be able to state where the emus were sourced and how the oil is produced.
- Realistic claims: avoid products promising cures or guaranteed results.
Topical oil vs blended balms
Some products are pure oil, while others are blends with beeswax, essential oils, or plant extracts. Pure oil is easier to patch test and gives you a clearer sense of how your skin reacts. Blends can be lovely, but fragrance and essential oils are more likely to irritate sensitive skin.
How to store emu oil
Store emu oil in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep the lid tightly closed. If your oil develops a strong rancid smell or changes colour noticeably, it is best to replace it.
Ethics and sourcing
Because emu oil is animal derived, sourcing matters. If ethical considerations are important to you, look for transparency about farming standards and processing. A reputable supplier should be comfortable answering questions about origin and quality controls.
If you want to browse by brand, you can explore Emu Spirit products.
Emu oil vs other oils
If you have used oils like olive, jojoba, rosehip, or coconut, you may wonder whether emu oil is different. In practice, most oils overlap in what they do: they soften skin by reducing water loss and improving the feel of the surface.
- Texture: emu oil is often described as lighter than heavier oils and can feel less greasy after a few minutes.
- Fragrance: well refined emu oil should have little odour. Strong smell can be a sign of poor refining or age.
- Skin response: some people break out with certain oils and not others. That is why patch testing matters more than the oil type.
If you mainly want barrier support, an unscented moisturiser with ceramides and humectants can be a strong baseline. Oils like emu oil can sit on top to reduce dryness, especially in winter or in dry indoor heating.
How long does emu oil take to work?
For dryness, you may notice smoother skin after the first few applications. For comfort and massage, the effect is immediate because it is about slip and reducing friction. For any deeper goal, such as reducing redness or changing the look of scars, expectations should be modest. If you do not see a meaningful benefit after 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use, it is reasonable to reassess your routine and consider other options.
Can kids or pets use emu oil?
For children, we suggest extra caution because skin can be more sensitive and kids are more likely to rub products into eyes or mouths. If you want to use an oil for very dry patches, patch test and use a tiny amount, or ask a pharmacist for a child-friendly option.
For pets, we do not recommend applying emu oil without veterinary advice. Animals lick their coat and can ingest topical products, and skin conditions in pets often need specific treatment.
FAQs
What is emu oil made from?
Emu oil is made by rendering and filtering fat from the emu. The finished product is a refined oil that can be bottled for skin use or put into capsules.
What is emu oil used for?
Most people use emu oil as a moisturising oil for dry skin, as a massage oil, or for general comfort when skin feels tight. Some people also take emu oil in capsule form for general wellbeing, but evidence for specific outcomes is limited.
Can emu oil help with joint pain?
Some early research suggests emu oil may have anti-inflammatory properties, but there is not enough strong human evidence to say it reliably helps joint pain. For ongoing pain, we recommend a chat with a health professional and using evidence-based strategies like gentle movement and physio advice.
Is emu oil safe to use on your face?
It can be, but facial skin can be reactive. Start with a tiny amount, patch test first, and stop if you notice breakouts or irritation. Avoid the eye area and do not apply to infected or broken skin.
Are emu oil capsules safe for everyone?
Not always. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, on blood-thinning medicines, managing chronic conditions, or prone to allergies should check with a GP or pharmacist before using capsules.
How do you choose a good emu oil in NZ?
Look for clear labelling, minimal additives, and realistic claims. Prefer products that state purity and processing details, and buy from retailers who can answer questions about sourcing and quality.
Next steps
- Shop Emu Oil
- Browse the Emu Oil collection
- Compare Emu Caps
- Read: What is emu oil and why is it good for you?
- Emu oil benefits
- Emu oil side effects
- How to take emu oil
- Emu oil dosage guide
- Does emu oil work?