Vegetarian Alternatives to Emu Oil

• Emus can grow up to 6 feet tall and weigh 140 pounds. Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images

  Emu oil is derived from a flightless bird that is native to Australia. An emu is similar in looks to an ostrich. Emu oil has several properties that treat and relieve symptoms of arthritis, sunburn, acne and eczema. According to animal rights organization People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), other plant and vegetable oils can be used as an alternative to emu oil.

Jojoba Oil

• Like emu oil, jojoba oil is a moisturizer that penetrates the skin and is non-comedogenic, which means it will not clog your pores. Jojoba oil is a natural way to treat the symptoms of eczema and psoriasis. This oil has the ability to penetrate your skin to heal and soothe it just as emu oil does. Its moisturizing properties benefit your skin and hair.

Tea Tree Oil

• When used topically, tea tree oil is a natural anti-inflammatory, like emu oil, which works to treat inflammation of the joints caused by arthritis. It also penetrates the skin to numb the pain from arthritis. Add 12 drops of tea tree oil to warm bathwater and soak in it, or apply a massage oil two to four times daily. Make the massage oil by combining 18 drops of tea tree oil with 1/8 cup almond oil. Put it into a dark bottle and shake before each use. Over-exposure to light will degrade the oil.

  Like emu oil, tea tree oil is an antibacterial and antiseptic that treats acne, burns, sunburns and other skin infections. According to Inside Cosmeceuticals, applying the oil topically kills the bacteria that causes acne. Perform a skin test to see if you are sensitive to full-strength tea tree oil before applying it to your skin. Dilute one part tea tree oil with one part jojoba or grapeseed oil if you are sensitive. Apply the oil directly to acne blemishes and let it sit overnight. Tea tree oil is not recommended for children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Olive Oil

• Emu oil has high concentrations of omega 3, 6 and 9 that helps lower cholesterol levels. As an alternative to emu oil, olive oil helps lower bad cholesterol and is high in heart healthy antioxidants. Extra virgin olive oil has the highest concentration of antioxidants because it is processed less than virgin and pure olive oil. Substitute butter with olive oil on your bread, use it to saute vegetables or mix it with vinegar for a salad dressing.