Neem Oil Benefits

Native to the tropical and semi-tropical regions of the Asian subcontinent, the neem is a large tree in the mahogany family Meliaceae. A tall evergreen tree; 15-20 m in height, has extensive mention in ancient Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine, for its disease fighting properties. So effective it is that in East Africa it is known as Muarubaini in Swahili, a Bantu language, it means the 'tree of the 40', for its ability to treat 40 different diseases. All parts of the neem tree are endowed with infection fighting capacities. And from this tree comes the famed neem oil. Neem oil benefits can be derived by using this oil for treating various infections, and immune building plus this oil is used in a large number of household products.

Neem Oil
A vegetable oil, neem oil is extracted from the fruits and seeds of neem. The oil is light to dark brown depending upon its method of processing and extraction. It is very bitter to taste, attributed mainly because of triglycerides and triterpenoid compounds, and has a strong fragrance. Neem oil is hydrophobic in nature. It also contains steroids and naturally-occurring organic chemicals like triterpenoids. Neem oil uses are wide ranging because of the benefits they carry, however, it is not used as a cooking oil. Read more on neem oil: facts and products.

Benefits of Neem Oil
Neem oil contains powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties that makes it the first choice in over a hundred household, agricultural, medicinal and cosmetic products. The active compounds found in its extracts and finished products are used to prepare not only traditional medicines, but also modern ones. Neem oil benefits for skin has proven to be extremely beneficial to those who suffer from various skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, eczema, skin ulcers, etc. Its astringent properties promotes wound healing of minor cuts, bruises and gashes. Probably the reason you will find many ointments carry neem oil as its primary component. Read more on neem oil - natural cure for eczema.

Not only skin problems, an application of neem oil combined with a carrier oil helps one treat hair related problems like dandruff and itchy scalp. Dental care products like toothpaste, mouth washes and rinses all use the neem oil's antiseptic properties to keep teeth health and gums free of infection. Besides this, neem oil also strengthens an individuals resistance to disease by boosting the immune system. Neem oil is very useful in preparation of medicines that treat diabetes, arthritis, blood disorders, digestive problems, and inhibits the growth of free radicals that are responsible for growth of certain kinds of cancer.

Neem oil benefits also include its use in household items like mosquito repellents, disinfectants and personal hygiene products. Many skin care products including cosmetics use neem essential oil. Neem oil is extremely popular in its use in almost all products of aromatherapy, that helps restore mental health. One will find an array of neem oil products used in pesticides, fungicides and germicides, one can use for clearing plant pest and infections. Its active ingredients are used for inhibiting the growth of all insects as it breaks their life cycle; from larva to pupa to adult. It is also useful for treating minor infections on animals. Read more on neem oil as insecticide.

To derive neem oil benefits, make sure you buy products that use them, or one can even buy pure neem essential oil from any aroma store. Since the tree is found in abundance, finding neem oil would be very easy.