Snake Oil is a traditional Chinese medicine that is made from the fats and oils extracted from the Chinese water snake. Chinese water-snake oil contains 20 percent eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), one of the two types of omega-3 fatty acids most readily used by our bodies. Salmon, one of the most popular food sources of omega-3s, contains a maximum of 18 percent EPA, lower than that of snake oil. Omega-3s are vital for human metabolism. Not only do they sooth inflammation in muscles and joints, but also, they can help "cognitive function and reduce blood pressure, cholesterol, and even depression."
People use commonly use snake oil when they are suffering from joint pain and arthritis, topical inflammation, a weak immune system, cardiovascular problems, dementia, cognitive impairment, stress, anxiety, depression, split ends, stretch marks, dandruff.
Snake oil is derived from the fat of the Chinese water snake, although there are other snake oils made from boa constrictors, sea snakes, and other species. This fat is processed and refined into a concentrated oil that possesses high levels of an omega-3 fatty acid named eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), which has been directly linked to a number of benefits for human health.