Herb & supplement monograph

Emu Oil Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Medically reviewed by ·Updated June 2026
What is this page for?

First and foremost: how Emu Oil interacts with medications. The heart of this page is the interaction list — every drug Emu Oil is known to interact with, and how serious each one is.

But these pages have grown well beyond that into a full monograph — what Emu Oil is, what people use it for and how strong the evidence is, its safety and side effects, and answers to the questions we’re asked most — written and reviewed by the clinical staff at HelloPharmacist. It’s educational information from our licensed clinical databases, not medical advice, and we don’t sell or endorse products. Our editorial policy

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Interaction report

Drugs that interact with Emu Oil

0 medications have a known interaction with Emu Oil, graded by severity. Select any drug for the full evidence-based detail.

We don’t currently list any known drug interactions for Emu Oil. This doesn’t guarantee none exist — always confirm with your pharmacist before combining supplements with your medications.

Read The List Like a Pharmacist

What Severity, Likelihood & Evidence Mean

Severity — How Serious It Can Be

  • Major. Clinically significant; generally best avoided, or used only under direct professional supervision.
  • Moderate. May need monitoring, a dose adjustment, or separating the times you take each one.
  • Minor. Generally not clinically significant, but still worth noting and mentioning to your pharmacist.
  • No known interaction. Checked against our sources with nothing documented — not the same as proven safety.

Likelihood — How Well It’s Documented

  • Likely. Well-controlled human studies have demonstrated the likely existence of this interaction
  • Probable. Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.
  • Possible. Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
  • Unlikely. Interaction has been demonstrated in animal or in lab research but has been shown not to occur in humans.

Where This Data Comes From

  • Interaction records are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database (TRC Healthcare), the same reference used by pharmacists and hospitals.
  • Each drug listed above links to the full report for that exact Emu Oil combination — clinical detail, likelihood, evidence level, and citations.
  • Content is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists — see our data sources and editorial standards.
Monograph

Emu Oil: Uses, Safety & Side Effects

Medically reviewed by · Reviewed June 2026 ·
The bottom line

Emu oil is a fat from the emu bird that is mostly used on the skin to moisturize and soothe irritation, and sometimes taken by mouth for inflammation. Human research is limited, so most claims are not well proven. It is generally well tolerated on the skin, but talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any medical condition.

Part used
Fat (oil) rendered from the emu bird (Dromaius novaehollandiae)
Common forms
Topical oil, creams, lotions, balms, soaps, and softgel capsules
People commonly use it for
  • Dry or irritated skin
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Minor wounds and burns
  • Hair and scalp care
  • Anti-inflammatory skin support

Popular and traditional uses — not proof it works. See “Uses & effectiveness” below for the evidence.

Safety at a glance
OverallUse caution

Generally well tolerated on the skin, but human evidence is limited and quality varies between products.

PregnancyUse caution

Not enough reliable safety data; topical use is likely lower risk, but check with your doctor first.

BreastfeedingUse caution

Safety is not well studied, so use cautiously and avoid applying near the nipple area.

Safety guidance is general; always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor for your situation.

Jump to a section

Overview

Emu oil is a fat that comes from the emu, a large flightless bird native to Australia. The fat stored under the bird's skin is collected and processed (refined) into a yellowish oil.

Emu oil has a long history of traditional use by Aboriginal Australians, mainly for the skin. Today it is sold worldwide as a topical product for dry skin, irritation, and aches, and sometimes as a capsule taken by mouth. It is not a plant or herb, even though it is often grouped with natural supplements.

How it works

Emu oil is made up mostly of fatty acids, including oleic acid and other omega fatty acids. These fats may help soften the skin and form a barrier that slows water loss, which is why it can act as a moisturizer.

Researchers have suggested it may have anti-inflammatory effects and may help oil penetrate the skin, possibly carrying other ingredients with it. However, these ideas come largely from laboratory and animal studies and are not fully proven in people.

Effectiveness

Does Emu Oil work?

Here’s what the research actually shows for each use — graded by Natural Medicines and reviewed by .

Evidence overview · 15 uses evaluated
15 Insufficient evidence
How to read these evidence grades

Natural Medicines’ 7-point scale. We show each rating’s label word-for-word.

1EffectiveStrong, consistent evidence it works.
2Likely EffectiveGood evidence, though not yet conclusive.
3Possibly EffectiveSome evidence suggests a benefit.
4Possibly IneffectiveSome evidence it may not help.
5Likely IneffectiveFairly strong evidence it doesn’t help.
6IneffectiveStrong evidence it doesn’t work.
7Insufficient Reliable Evidence to RateToo little research to say either way.

For Emu Oil, current evidence isn’t strong enough to rate any specific use. The conditions it has been studied for are listed below.

Also studied for 15 conditions — evidence insufficient to rate
Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Androgenic alopecia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical emu oil for androgenic alopecia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Aromatase inhibitor-induced arthralgia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical emu oil is beneficial in patients with aromatase inhibitor-induced arthralgia.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Atherosclerosis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral emu oil for atherosclerosis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical emu oil for atopic dermatitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Burns
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical emu oil for burns, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Crohn disease
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral emu oil for Crohn disease, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Diaper rash
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical emu oil for diaper rash, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Hyperlipidemia
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral emu oil for hyperlipidemia, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Osteoarthritis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical emu oil for osteoarthritis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Psoriasis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical emu oil for psoriasis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Radiation dermatitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical emu oil is beneficial for the treatment or prevention of radiation dermatitis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical emu oil for RA, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Seborrheic dermatitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

It is unclear if topical emu oil is beneficial in patients with seborrheic dermatitis.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Ulcerative colitis
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using oral emu oil for ulcerative colitis, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Insufficient Reliable Evidence To Rate Wound healing
Rating & evidence shown verbatim from Natural Medicines

Although there has been interest in using topical emu oil for wound healing, there is insufficient reliable information about the clinical effects of emu oil for this purpose.

Source & disclaimer. Effectiveness ratings and evidence summaries are provided by Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) and shown as licensed. Where Natural Medicines hasn’t rated a use, HelloPharmacist’s pharmacists may add their own reviewed rating and evidence (each such entry is labeled). This is educational information, not medical advice — talk with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing a supplement.

Safety & precautions

Used on the skin, emu oil is generally well tolerated by most people. Because product quality and purity can vary widely between brands, choose products from reputable manufacturers.

Do a small patch test before wider use to check for irritation or allergy. Avoid putting it on deep wounds, serious burns, or signs of infection unless a healthcare provider advises it.

For pregnancy and breastfeeding, there is not enough reliable safety information. Topical use is likely lower risk than taking it by mouth, but it is safest to check with your doctor first and avoid applying it near the nipple area if nursing. Anyone with a known allergy to animal products should be especially cautious.

Side effects

Side effects are usually mild. Some people may notice skin irritation, redness, or a rash where it is applied, especially if they are sensitive or allergic.

Taken by mouth, it may cause stomach upset in some people. Serious reactions are rare, but stop use and seek care if you develop swelling, hives, or trouble breathing, which could signal an allergic reaction.

Dosing

There is no standardized or officially established dose for emu oil. For topical products, follow the directions on the label and apply a thin layer to the affected area.

For capsules taken by mouth, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Because doses and product strengths vary, ask your pharmacist or doctor for guidance, especially if you plan to use it regularly or for a health condition.

References & further reading

The 2 sources that drive our Emu Oil monograph — publicly available pages from reputable medical and government organizations. Every link was verified to work before publishing.

  1. Dietary Supplements — NIH NCCIH Source
  2. Herbs and Supplements — MedlinePlus Source
Keep reading

This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or combining supplements and medications.

Brand directory

Brands that make products with Emu Oil

5 brands in our database make a supplement containing Emu Oil.

Product directory

Supplement products with Emu Oil

7 products in our database contain Emu Oil. Open any to see its full ingredient list and every drug interaction we check.

Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Emu Oil: Common Questions

What is Emu Oil used for, and does it work?
People use Emu Oil for a range of reasons, but according to the Natural Medicines database the current clinical evidence is insufficient to confirm it works for the specific conditions it has been studied for. See the graded list on this page, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before relying on it for any condition.
Does Emu Oil interact with prescription medications?
We do not currently list any known drug interactions for Emu Oil. This does not guarantee that none exist, so always confirm with your pharmacist before combining it with your medications.
How are Emu Oil interactions rated?
Each interaction is graded major, moderate, or minor based on how clinically significant it is and the strength of the evidence behind it. Major interactions are the most serious and are best avoided, or used only under close professional supervision.
Is it safe to take Emu Oil with my medications?
It depends on the specific medication. Some combinations are fine, while others call for monitoring, timing changes, or should be avoided. Check your exact drug above and confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before starting, stopping, or changing anything.
Where does this Emu Oil interaction information come from?
Our interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database — an evidence-graded reference for vitamins, herbs, and supplements — and is reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists, who may add clinical context.
What is Emu Oil used for?
It is mostly used on the skin as a moisturizer and to soothe dryness, irritation, and minor aches. Some people also use it for joint pain, wounds, or hair care, though the evidence for these uses is limited.
Is Emu Oil safe to use?
For most people, applying it to the skin is generally well tolerated. Do a small patch test first, choose a reputable brand, and talk to your pharmacist or doctor before using it for a medical condition.
Can I use Emu Oil while pregnant or breastfeeding?
There is not enough reliable safety data, so it is best to be cautious. Check with your doctor first, and if breastfeeding, avoid applying it near the nipple area.
Is Emu Oil vegan or plant-based?
No. Emu Oil is an animal product made from the fat of the emu bird, so it is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Keep exploring

Products that contain Emu Oil

A rotating sample of real supplements in our database that list Emu Oil — open any to see its full ingredients and every drug interaction we check.

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