Quick Answer: Ostrich oil is used mainly in skin and hair products, although some people also apply it to sore joints. Its fatty acids make it a reasonable moisturizing ingredient, and a 2025 clinical trial found improvements in knee pain and stiffness after two months of use. That is an interesting result, but it does not mean ostrich oil is a proven treatment for arthritis or that every benefit claimed by sellers is real.
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Introduction
Ostrich oil is sold for quite a few things these days, from dry skin and beard care to aching knees. Some sellers make it sound as though one oil can do almost everything. The research is a lot less straightforward.
There is a reason to take a closer look, though. Ostrich oil has an interesting fatty acid profile, and researchers have actually tested it on people with knee osteoarthritis. The results were encouraging in some respects, but they also leave questions unanswered. Claims about hair growth, anti-aging and treating skin diseases are on much shakier ground.
Let’s look at what the evidence really tells us, starting with the oil itself.
What Is Ostrich Oil and How Is It Made?
Ostrich oil is obtained by rendering the fat found beneath an ostrich’s skin and around its internal organs. The fat is heated so the oil separates from the surrounding tissue and water, then collected and processed for use in cosmetics or other products.
The raw material comes from the same ostriches raised for meat and leather. In other words, the oil is another byproduct of ostrich farming, alongside the hides, feathers and other materials used by different industries.
The finished oil can vary in color, smell and consistency. That depends on the fat itself and how it has been processed. Some products contain relatively pure ostrich oil, while others combine it with ingredients such as beeswax, essential oils or other plant-based oils.
You’ll generally encounter two types:
- Unrefined ostrich oil: Undergoes less processing and may retain more of its natural color and smell.
- Refined ostrich oil: Receives additional processing to remove impurities and produce a more uniform color and odor.
Neither label automatically tells you how effective a product will be on your skin. Processing methods, storage conditions and the finished formulation all matter. If you’re buying ostrich oil for skincare, checking the ingredient list and the manufacturer’s information is more useful than relying on the word pure on the front of the bottle.
Ostrich Oil Composition: What Is Actually in It?
To understand why ostrich oil is used in skincare products, it helps to look at its fatty acids. These make up most of the oil and influence its physical properties, including how it behaves when applied to the skin.
One commonly cited breakdown gives the following composition:
| Type of fat | Reported proportion |
|---|---|
| Saturated fatty acids | 36.51% |
| Monounsaturated fatty acids | 46.75% |
| Polyunsaturated fatty acids | 18.24% |
These figures should be treated with caution. They come from a secondary source, and the percentages add up to more than 100%. We should verify the original analysis before treating them as a definitive composition profile. Fatty acid proportions can also vary between samples depending on factors such as diet, processing and analytical methods.
Oleic acid, a monounsaturated fatty acid also found in olive oil, is one of the important components discussed in research on ostrich fat. Oils rich in oleic acid are widely used in skincare because they can soften the skin and help condition its outer layer. That makes ostrich oil a plausible moisturizing ingredient, but it does not establish that it works better than more familiar oils.
There is also research into ostrich oil as a potential cooking oil. A study published in Springer reported a cholesterol concentration of 287 mg/kg and examined the oil’s resistance to oxidation during prolonged heating. Those findings relate to its potential use in food preparation, not to whether applying it to the skin can relieve pain or improve skin health.
For skincare, the key question is not simply which fatty acids the oil contains. It’s whether those components produce measurable benefits in people, and how strong the evidence is. That’s where the research becomes more interesting.
Ostrich Oil Benefits for Skin and Hair
Ostrich oil is used most often in skincare products, and moisturizing is probably its most straightforward potential benefit. Like other oils, it can soften the skin and help reduce moisture loss. That can be useful if your skin feels dry or rough, although there is no strong evidence that ostrich oil is better than ordinary skincare oils.
There is some research beyond basic moisturizing. Japanese company Yoshinoya Holdings has investigated ostrich oil for its cosmetics line, SPEEDIA. The company’s reported tests found that applying the oil helped reduce water loss through the skin. Laboratory experiments using Franz diffusion cells also suggested that it could increase the penetration of certain cosmetic ingredients, including niacinamide.
Those results are interesting, but the distinction matters: the penetration experiments were conducted using a laboratory skin model, not large clinical trials showing better results in people. They also do not establish that ostrich oil makes every skincare ingredient work more effectively. You can read the company’s published research summary for the details.
What About Hair, Scalp and Beard Care?
Ostrich oil also appears in beard balms, hair products and scalp treatments. Here, the proposed benefit is fairly simple: the oil coats and conditions hair, helping it feel softer and less dry. That is a reasonable cosmetic use, but it is different from changing how hair grows.
I could not establish strong human clinical evidence showing that ostrich oil stimulates hair growth, treats dandruff or prevents hair loss. If a product promises those results, look for evidence beyond the ingredient list or the seller’s own claims.
The same caution applies to claims about acne, eczema, psoriasis and wrinkles. An oil may help with dryness without treating the underlying skin condition. And if you are prone to acne, don’t assume ostrich oil is guaranteed not to clog your pores just because a seller describes it as lightweight or non-comedogenic.
Which Ostrich Oil Benefits Are Actually Supported by Evidence?
The easiest way to judge ostrich oil is to separate what oils can reasonably do from what has actually been demonstrated specifically for ostrich oil.
| Claimed benefit | What the evidence tells us |
|---|---|
| Moisturizing dry skin | Plausible. Oils can soften skin and help limit moisture loss. |
| Improving penetration of cosmetic ingredients | Promising laboratory findings, including manufacturer-reported tests. Human benefits remain uncertain. |
| Conditioning hair and beards | A reasonable cosmetic use, but not proof of improved hair growth. |
| Relieving knee osteoarthritis pain | One randomized, double-blind human trial reported improvements in pain and stiffness. More research is needed. |
| Treating eczema, psoriasis or burns | Not established by strong human clinical evidence. |
| Reducing wrinkles or reversing skin aging | Insufficient evidence to support these claims. |
| Taking ostrich oil as a health supplement | Benefits and safety have not been adequately established in humans. |
The distinction is worth keeping in mind when shopping. Ostrich oil may be a useful ingredient in a moisturizer, and the early joint-pain findings deserve further study. Neither point justifies treating it as a cure for skin disease or a replacement for established medical care.
Does Ostrich Oil Help with Knee Pain and Joint Stiffness?
Most of the claims surrounding ostrich oil focus on skin and hair, but knee pain is where the research gets particularly interesting. In 2025, a clinical trial published in Traditional & Kampo Medicine investigated whether applying ostrich oil could help people with knee osteoarthritis.
The results were encouraging. Participants who used the oil reported less pain and stiffness after two months than those who received a placebo. There is an important catch, though: the study did not find a significant difference between the groups in a test measuring how long they took to walk six metres.
What Did the 2025 Clinical Trial Find about Ostrich Oil?
The study involved 90 patients with knee osteoarthritis in Iran. Participants were assigned to receive either topical ostrich oil or a placebo as an addition to their existing care. The treatment was applied twice daily for two months.
Here are the main findings reported in the study:
| Study detail | Reported result |
|---|---|
| Participants | 90 patients with knee osteoarthritis |
| Treatment | Topical ostrich oil or placebo |
| Dosage | 2 mL per knee, twice daily |
| Duration | 2 months |
| Right knee pain score | 1.33 with ostrich oil vs. 2.30 with placebo |
| Left knee pain score | 1.31 with ostrich oil vs. 2.22 with placebo |
| Pain-score comparisons | p = 0.001 for both knees |
| Joint stiffness | Significant improvement reported for both knees |
The lower pain scores in the ostrich oil group suggest that participants experienced greater relief than those receiving the placebo. The researchers also reported improvements in stiffness, with p-values of 0.035 for the right knee and 0.021 for the left.
These results are worth paying attention to, particularly because the study used a placebo-controlled design rather than simply asking people whether they felt better after using the oil. However, the scores alone do not tell us how much the treatment improved everyday life for each participant.
What the Study Could Not Prove
One result deserves just as much attention as the improvements in pain and stiffness. The study’s associated thesis record reported no statistically significant difference between the treatment and placebo groups in the six-metre walking test (p = 0.76).
In practical terms, participants reported feeling less pain, but the study did not demonstrate that those using ostrich oil walked faster than the placebo group. Pain relief and improved physical function are related, but they are not the same outcome.
There are other limitations, too. This was a relatively small study conducted in one research setting, and the treatment period lasted only two months. The findings need to be replicated in larger, independent trials before we can be confident about how well ostrich oil works, who might benefit most, or whether any improvement lasts after treatment stops.
So, does ostrich oil help knee pain? There is an encouraging early signal from one human clinical trial, but not enough evidence to call it an established treatment for osteoarthritis. Anyone considering it should speak with a healthcare professional, particularly if knee pain is persistent or affects everyday movement. Ostrich oil should not replace prescribed treatment or other recommended approaches to managing osteoarthritis.
Ostrich Oil vs. Emu Oil: Which Is Better?
Ostrich oil and emu oil are often mentioned together because both come from large, flightless birds and are sold for similar purposes, particularly skincare and massage. Their uses overlap, but that does not mean the oils are identical or that one is automatically better than the other.
The biggest difference is the research behind them. Ostrich oil has some promising early evidence for knee osteoarthritis, while emu oil has been investigated in a wider range of laboratory and animal studies. Neither oil has enough high-quality human evidence to justify all the health claims commonly made by sellers.
How Do Their Fatty Acid Profiles Compare?
Both oils contain mixtures of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Their exact composition can vary depending on the source of the fat, the bird’s diet, processing and the methods used to analyse the oil.
Some published summaries report an omega-3 content of around 2.1% for ostrich oil and 0.25% for US-produced emu oil. These figures are worth noting, but they should not be treated as a definitive head-to-head comparison unless the original analyses confirm that the samples and testing methods are comparable.
| Comparison | Ostrich oil | Emu oil |
|---|---|---|
| Main uses | Moisturizers, balms and massage oils | Moisturizers, balms and massage oils |
| Fatty acid composition | Contains saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats | Contains the same broad categories of fats |
| Reported omega-3 content | Approximately 2.1% in one cited analysis | Approximately 0.25% in one analysis of US emu oil |
| Human research on knee pain | One promising clinical trial reported in 2025 | No direct comparison established here |
| Laboratory and animal research | Limited, with mixed findings | A broader research base for some proposed biological effects |
A higher reported omega-3 proportion does not automatically make ostrich oil the better skincare product. The overall fatty acid profile, formulation, product quality and intended use all matter. And composition alone cannot tell us whether an oil will relieve pain or treat a skin condition.
What Does the Research Say About Ostrich Oil’s Effects?
Some laboratory research has found stronger antioxidant activity in emu oil than in ostrich oil and other ratite oils. This suggests that the oils may behave differently under particular experimental conditions, but laboratory antioxidant activity is not the same as a demonstrated health benefit in humans.
Animal research also provides a useful caution. In a rat model of chemotherapy-induced intestinal mucositis, emu oil showed beneficial effects, whereas ostrich oil did not demonstrate the same benefit. This was an animal experiment involving intestinal injury, not a clinical test of either oil for joint pain or ordinary skincare. Its findings cannot establish which oil works better for people.
The human evidence for knee pain is similarly limited. Ostrich oil has one encouraging clinical trial, but that study did not compare it directly with emu oil. We therefore cannot use it to conclude that ostrich oil is more effective than emu oil for osteoarthritis.
So, which one should you choose? For everyday moisturizing, either may be worth considering if you find a well-formulated product that suits your skin. For joint pain or other medical concerns, neither should be chosen on the basis of marketing claims or fatty acid percentages alone. At present, there is not enough direct human evidence to declare an overall winner.
Is Ostrich Oil Safe? Side Effects and Precautions
Ostrich oil is used mainly in products applied to the skin, but detailed research on its safety is limited. The fact that it comes from a natural source does not guarantee that every product will suit every person. The finished formula, processing methods and individual skin sensitivity all play a role.
For most people considering it as a moisturizer, the sensible approach is to start with a small amount and see how the skin responds.
Possible Side Effects of Ostrich Oil
Skin irritation or an allergic reaction is possible, particularly if the product contains fragrances, essential oils or other ingredients that your skin does not tolerate. If you notice redness, itching, swelling or a rash, stop using the product.
A few precautions are worth following:
- Patch test first. Apply a small amount to a limited area of skin and monitor it for 24 to 48 hours. A patch test can help identify irritation, although it cannot rule out every possible reaction.
- Check the ingredients. A product marketed as ostrich oil may contain several other ingredients, so don’t assume the oil itself is responsible for every effect.
- Avoid damaged or infected skin. Do not use an unverified cosmetic oil as a treatment for open wounds, infected areas or serious burns.
- Be careful with existing skin conditions. If you have persistent eczema, psoriasis or another skin problem, ask a healthcare professional before relying on ostrich oil to manage it.
There is also a difference between using ostrich oil on the skin and consuming it. Research on topical products does not establish the safety or health benefits of taking the oil orally. Unless a product is specifically intended and appropriately regulated for consumption, don’t assume it is suitable as a dietary supplement.
Finally, if you’re considering ostrich oil for knee osteoarthritis, remember that the clinical evidence remains preliminary. It should not replace prescribed medication, physiotherapy or other care recommended by your healthcare professional.
How to Use Ostrich Oil
How you use ostrich oil depends on the product. A pure oil, a formulated moisturizer and a joint massage balm may have different ingredients and directions, so follow the manufacturer’s instructions rather than assuming that all products can be used in the same way.
For ordinary skincare, the process is straightforward:
- Start with clean, dry skin.
- Apply a small amount to the area you want to moisturize.
- Spread it gently and allow it to settle into the skin.
- Watch for irritation, especially during the first few applications.
- Stop using it if an unwanted reaction develops.
You don’t need to apply a thick layer or use it repeatedly throughout the day to get a moisturizing effect. More product does not necessarily mean better results.
If you’re trying ostrich oil for knee discomfort, don’t copy the dosage from the 2025 clinical trial without medical advice. The study’s protocol was designed for a specific research setting, and it does not establish a universal dosage for commercially available oils. Products can differ in concentration, formulation and quality.
The same principle applies to hair and beard care. If the oil is sold as a cosmetic conditioner, use it according to its intended purpose. Claims that it stimulates hair growth or treats scalp conditions require evidence beyond the fact that it makes hair feel softer.
Is Ostrich Oil Expensive, and Where Can You Buy It?
Ostrich oil is a niche product, so prices can vary considerably between sellers. A small bottle of pure oil may cost more per ounce than a cream that contains ostrich oil alongside cheaper ingredients. Bottle size, processing, brand and shipping costs all affect the final price, which makes a single average price difficult to establish reliably.
You can find ostrich oil through specialist skincare brands, beard-care retailers, online marketplaces and some ostrich farms. Availability depends on the country, and not every seller provides the same level of information about how the oil is sourced or processed.
Before buying, there are a few things worth checking.
What to Look for When Buying Ostrich Oil
- Read the ingredient list. Check whether the product contains 100% ostrich oil or combines it with other oils, fragrances and additives.
- Check the processing information. See whether the oil is refined or unrefined and whether the seller explains how it is processed.
- Look for clear sourcing details. A trustworthy seller should be able to explain where the product comes from and how it is handled.
- Compare prices by volume. Comparing the price per ounce or millilitre is more useful than comparing bottle prices alone.
- Be sceptical of medical promises. Claims that a product cures arthritis, eliminates wrinkles or regrows hair deserve more scrutiny than ordinary moisturizing claims.
Ostrich oil is also part of a wider industry that makes use of the bird’s different products, including meat, leather and feathers. If you’re interested in the commercial side of ostrich farming, our guides to ostrich leather and ostrich feathers explore two other important byproducts.
Ultimately, a more expensive bottle is not necessarily a better one. Clear labelling, sensible claims and reliable information about the product matter more than premium packaging.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ostrich Oil
What is ostrich oil used for?
Ostrich oil is used mainly in moisturizers, body balms, hair products and beard-care products. Some people also apply it to joints for massage, although evidence that it relieves pain is still limited. Its potential use as a cooking oil has also been studied, but that is separate from its cosmetic applications.
Does ostrich oil really work?
Ostrich oil can function as a skin-conditioning oil, much like other oils used in moisturizers. A 2025 clinical trial also reported improvements in knee pain and stiffness after two months of topical use. However, stronger evidence is needed to confirm its effectiveness for joint pain and other medical claims.
Is ostrich oil good for you?
As a topical ingredient, ostrich oil may help soften dry skin. Whether it offers benefits beyond ordinary moisturization is less certain. There is insufficient human evidence to recommend it as an oral supplement or as a treatment for a medical condition.
Are there any side effects of using ostrich oil?
Possible side effects include skin irritation and allergic reactions. Products containing fragrances or other additives may also cause reactions in sensitive individuals. Patch test a new product before regular use, and stop if irritation develops.
Is ostrich oil expensive?
Ostrich oil is generally a specialist product, and prices vary by brand, purity, processing and bottle size. Compare the cost per millilitre and check the ingredient list before deciding whether a product offers good value.
Where can I get ostrich oil?
You can look for ostrich oil through specialist skincare retailers, beard-care brands, online marketplaces and some ostrich farms. Check the seller’s sourcing and processing information, particularly if the product is advertised as pure ostrich oil.
Is ostrich oil better than emu oil?
There is no clear winner based on current evidence. Some analyses report a higher omega-3 proportion in ostrich oil, while certain laboratory and animal studies have found promising effects from emu oil. Neither comparison establishes which oil works better for people, and the two have not been directly compared in the cited knee osteoarthritis trial.
Does ostrich oil help with knee pain?
One randomized, double-blind trial involving 90 patients reported lower knee pain and stiffness scores after two months of topical ostrich oil use. However, the study found no significant difference in the six-metre walking test between the treatment and placebo groups. The results are promising, but further trials are needed.
What are the benefits of ostrich oil for skin?
Its most plausible benefit is moisturization. Ostrich oil can help condition the skin, and manufacturer-reported laboratory research suggests it may affect the penetration of certain cosmetic ingredients. Strong human evidence for anti-aging, acne treatment or relief from conditions such as eczema is lacking.
Conclusion
Ostrich oil has a reasonable place in skincare, particularly as an ingredient that helps soften dry skin. The claims about joint pain are more interesting from a research perspective: a 2025 clinical trial found improvements in knee pain and stiffness, although it did not demonstrate a corresponding improvement in walking performance. That is encouraging, but one study is not enough to establish ostrich oil as a reliable treatment for osteoarthritis.
The same caution applies to claims about hair growth, anti-aging and treating skin conditions. Some laboratory findings are worth exploring, but they do not replace evidence from well-designed human studies.
If you want to try ostrich oil as a moisturizer, choose a clearly labelled product, check its ingredients and start with a small amount. If you’re considering it for persistent joint pain or a skin condition, speak with a healthcare professional rather than relying on the oil alone.
For readers interested in the science, the original clinical trial is available in Traditional & Kampo Medicine: Ostrich oil for knee osteoarthritis.
