The emu is one of the largest birds in the world, second only to the ostrich in height. This Australian native is protected in its home country, but has become popular as a farmed species in many parts of the world. The emu is raised for its meat and hide, though emu farmers also raise the bird for its eggs, feathers, and oil. Many different products are made from the emu, including emu oil shampoo, a shampoo that helps to moisturize and heal human hair. Emu oil shampoo is a popular product sold commercially around the world.
Emu oil shampoo can be helpful for damaged or hard to manage hair types, including African-American hair. It is rich in Omega 3 oils, considered essential for restoring moisture to overly dry hair. The nutrients it contains are also thought to be helpful in getting hair to grow by supplying necessary nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles.
Typically, emu oil shampoo is made from the oil taken from the fat area on the back of the bird. This large area normally contains a thick layer of fat just under the skin; when the bird is butchered, the fat is rendered to produce the oil. The resulting oil is used in various cosmetics and hair care products, including both emu oil shampoo and emu oil conditioner. It is important to note that not all products sold as emu oil products contain natural oil. Some use artificial ingredients instead.
One of the reasons for the popularity of emu oil shampoo started because the Aborigines of Australia used all parts of the emu, but the oil was particularly highly prized. Many believe that it has a high level of medicinal value and can be used to treat a variety of ailments. It is said to be particularly effective for muscle injuries such as strains and sprains. The oil is also said to speed the healing of wounds while helping to prevent infection. When applied to hair these properties help to treat scalp and hair conditions.
Emu oil shampoo gained popularity outside of Australia once these birds began to be farmed commercially. The oil has strong emollient and anti-inflammatory properties, leading to their use in these types of products. Many people remain convinced that emu oil products are highly beneficial, despite a lack of scientific evidence to support these claims, as of 2011.