This might sound unusual but emu oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory. I first learned about it on some Australian websites for spinners and fiber workers. It's also my go-to first aid for any burns. And standard in Australian ERs for burns.

I got some for a friend who was having a lot of ankle swelling that diuretics, steroids and acupuncture weren't able to reduce. It worked within 12 hours of application. He applies it daily and when he skips a day his ankle swell again. His orthopedic surgeon now recommends it to other patients for inflammation. As does his acupuncturist who was surprised at how quickly it 'moves qi.'

We use cold-pressed food-grade emu oil. I consider it a first aid necessity as I've also seen it help further heal old injuries that kind of hit a plateau in the healing process but could be nudged to improve more. And break-up or reduce old scars.