Emu oil has shown some promise in experimental models as a potential adjunct to conventional treatment for ulcerative colitis (UC).

An Australian study fed groups of mice either low-dose emu oil, high-dose emu oil, or drinking water after induction of UC. A fourth group of healthy mice were also fed water.

The study found emu oil at both low and high doses significantly decreased the disease activity index (DAI) at multiple time points from day 3 – 35 and day 6 – 45 respectively compared to water-fed UC mice.

Compared to healthy mice, induction of UC led to weight loss, which could be reversed on administration of emu oil at any dose.

Similarly, normal burrowing activity of mice, a measure of wellbeing, was decreased with induction of UC and reversed with emu oil administration.

Histological examination of the proximal and distal colon confirmed emu oil could also reverse UC severity scores.

While induction of UC increased colonic myeloperoxidase activity compared to healthy animals, emu oil did not lead to any reduction in the measure of acute inflammation. There were no significant differences in blood parameters or organ weights between the groups.

The researchers, led by a team from the University of Adelaide and the University of WA, concluded that the improved clinical indicators and observed repair from injury suggested emu oil had potential as a novel, safe and renewable treatment for UC.

It joins the list of other naturally sourced oils such as fish oil, olive oil and green-lipped mussel extract with some evidence for anti-inflammatory action.

“In the current study, both doses of [Emu Oil] significantly decreased total DAI scores (encompassing bodyweight loss, stool consistency, rectal bleeding and general condition), thereby highlighting improved clinical indicators of UC manifestation.”

“Further studies are warranted to explore animal behaviour, welfare and affective state, including the potential influence of [Emu Oil] on gut microbiota populations and consequent modifications to glial cells located in the central nervous system.”