Marmot Oil – Marmot oil is a traditional remedy used in the Austrian Alps and other locations. The oil comes from the skin of wild marmots (marmota bobak) which hail from Siberia. This natural oil is completely natural and composed of triglycerides and unsaturated fatty acids. It can be used for treating skin complaints, as well as rheumatic conditions and is popular for achy knees.

Vitamin Oil – Vitamin oils can have a range of benefits for the skin and body, allowing the user to target specific sites and provide the body with vitamins and minerals for use in that area. In particular, vitamins A and E are effective for helping to fade the appearance of scars and damaged skin, as well as wrinkles, stretch marks and creases. Either an oil or cream can be used for these purposes applied directly to the damaged area, or it can be taken in capsule or tablet form to provide the body with a supply. This works due to the role of these vitamins in maintaining and repairing skin (vitamin E is a skin conditioner), as well as their antioxidant properties which helps them protect cells from bombardment from free radicals and radiation. Additionally, the act of ‘massaging’ any oil into a scar or wrinkle will help to break up fibrous material and relax the skin to lessen visible damage.

Extracellular Matrix – Extracellular matrix is not yet widely available. However, it promises to be the next big innovation in tissue regeneration and studies are currently being carried out looking into its military use (for treating wounded soldiers). In one widely reported case, an individual who lost the tip of their finger managed to grow back over a centimetre of flesh, bone and nail by applying the extracellular matrix. This substance is found in all mammals and provides structural support to the other cells. It is the defining feature of the connective tissue in all animals. By applying to wounded areas it can facilitate the healing of cells in that area and provide a source of proteins. These cells are usually acquired from pig bladders.

Fish Oils – Fish oils contain Omega 3 fatty acids, which serve a variety of roles within the body. Firstly omega 3 is a powerful antioxidant, this means it can help protect the cells of the body against damage from free radicals and radiation, thereby reducing the risk of cancer and fighting the effects of ageing (ageing is caused by damage to the cells from oxidisation, while damage to the DNA contained within the cell walls can result in mutations and cancer). Omega 3 also helps with cognitive function however, as well as with moods. Meanwhile, as an essential fatty acid, Omega 3 can help maintain healthy skin, hair and nails as well as to improve the body’s ability to utilise protein. Finally fish oils can help combat arthritis and joint pain.

Castor Oil, Cod Liver Oil etc. – Castor oil has also been claimed to help reduce the appearance of scars. Any oil meanwhile can be used to moisturise the skin and help to prevent dry skin and flaky scalps. Another use for oils is to combat mites and lice, and applying an oil to the infested area can help to smother and suffocate parasites.

Alternative and Homeopathic Oils – While most natural oils will provide some benefit for a range of conditions. However many alternative and homeopathic oils market products making grand claims to ‘cure’ ailments such as depression, restless leg syndrome, migraines and the flu; and also claim to be ‘superior’ to ‘conventional’ medicine. Such claims are unfounded however, and there is no known cure for restless leg syndrome or many of the other ailments they pertain to heal. At the same time, most of these oils contain no active agents and are diluted to the point where they consist mostly of just alcohol and water. Always be sure to read the ingredients of any product you intend to purchase. If you cannot find them then request them from the manufacturer (already it should be a warning sign). Once you have learned the ingredients research their uses online, and you should quickly get an idea as to how effective the product is.

Mack LeMouse

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