Neem oil is a vegetable oil expressed from the fruits and seeds of the neem, an evergreen tree that is endemic to the Indian subcontinent.
It is yellow to brown in colour with a bitter taste, and a garlic or sulfur aroma.
The tree belongs to the mahogany family, Meliaceae and is native to India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Bangladesh, and Pakistan known for a number of health benefits especially for the skin and hair.
The oil derived from crushing the seeds is a powerful anthelmintic compound, has a very wide spectrum of action, and is medicinal in nature, which includes being a spermicidal compound.
Neem oil contains Antiviral, Anti-fungal, Antibacterial Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, and Antimicrobial therapeutic properties.
It is also enriched with vitamin E and powerful antioxidants.
Neem oil is an excellent choice for skin care, it is perfect for smoothing wrinkles and fine lines while helping to prevent the signs of aging.
It is even better for acne; neem oil contains an aspirin-like compound that helps with acne conditions by alleviating the skin of acne-causing bacteria.
It also helps reduce redness and inflammation. This oil also treats other skin conditions like eczema, and it even treats fungus, ringworm, athlete’s foot, and dry skin.
Some people apply neem oil directly to the skin to treat head lice, skin diseases, wounds, and skin ulcers; as a mosquito repellent; and as a skin softening moisturizer.
To treat headlice, mix 50/50 with a carrier oil and massage into the hair and scalp.
Leave on for 1 hour and shampoo. Repeat once weekly for 3 weeks or as long as the problem persists.
Apply 1 drop of undiluted oil directly on warts once per day. Watch carefully for any possible irritation, and should that occur discontinue use.
Neem hair oil is also known for its ability to increase hair growth. It can be used to counter the effects of hair thinning due to stress, medication, pollution, and lots more. It promotes hair growth and improves the quality of your hair in the process.
Neem oil is used in dental care products like toothpaste, mouthwash, and rinse because of its antiseptic properties, which keep teeth and gum healthy.
Neem oil astringent property help to cure minor cuts, wounds, and as such can be found in various ointments as a primary component.
Neem oil is also used in various pet care products and can be used as an insect repellant.
