The emu is a flightless bird native to Australia in the same family as the ostrich and kiwi. The Aborigines relied on the emu for many purposes, using its meat for food, the skins for hide and clothing, and over time, learned of the many benefits of using emu oil, a by-product of the fat of the emu, to gain relief from minor aches and pains, to help heal wounds quicker, reduce swelling, joint pain, and protect their skin from the harsh elements of wind and sun.

Use of emu oil was most prevalent in country areas where it was applied in the treatment of cuts and bruises, burns, and dry skin problems. The many uses of emu oil were among several natural remedies adopted by settlers from the original inhabitants of Australia. They in turn then introduced emu oil to the first Europeans as a natural sun screen and skin moisturizer.

For many years, knowledge of these benefits was confined to the Australian continent, and not until the mid-1800's did emu oil begin to be used outside of Australia and New Zealand. European explorers, extolling its virtues, returned to their native countries bearing the oil as a gift.

In the mid 1980s, ranchers in the U.S. began to raise emus for their meat and by-products. By the mid 1990s, emu oil had reemerged as a natural solution for many. It began being used by athletic trainers in professional football and basketball, and by burn centers worldwide to heal skin tissue and reduce scarring. From that point, the many benefits of emu oil has spread quickly throughout the rest of the civilized world.