Neem Oil Uses

Neem tree (Azadirachta indica) is native to the Indian subcontinent and some other parts of south-east Asia. In these regions, this tree has been used for a very long time, for its medicinal properties. It is believed that the neem tree has several medicinal properties. While, the twigs of this tree were used for cleaning teeth, crushed neem leaves were applied on insect bites and other skin problems. It is said that neem has antibacterial, anti fungal, antiseptic, antiviral, antihistamine and spermicidal properties. It has been used in the traditional medicine of India, called Ayurveda, for thousands of years. Neem and neem oil are widely used for various purposes, including, health care, beauty care and pest control.

More About Neem Oil

As mentioned above, neem tree is believed to have several medicinal properties. Neem oil, which is extracted from the seeds of this tree is also believed to possess health benefits and so, is used as an ingredient in a wide range of products like soaps, shampoos, organic pesticides, herbal medicines and cosmetics. It is extracted from neem seeds through cold pressing or solvent extraction methods. The oil produced through cold pressing is of higher quality, as compared to that of solvent extraction. A byproduct of neem oil production, neem cake is highly valued as a fertilizer. The oil is usually light to dark brown in color, with a very strong odor. Bitter in taste, this oil is not usually used for culinary purposes. Neem oil does not dissolve in water, unless it is formulated with certain surfactants.

Uses of Neem Oil

This oil is extensively used in Ayurveda, for the treatment of various medical conditions. As per ayurveda, neem oil is mainly used for treating skin diseases, inflammation, rheumatic conditions, malaria and leprosy. The following are some of the popular neem oil uses.

• This oil is said to have excellent moisturizing effects, and is used for dry skin. It is said to repair damaged skin and restore the natural elasticity of the organ. It is also said to be equally beneficial for oily skin, in preventing acne, with its antibacterial properties.
• Apart from that, neem oil is also used for relief from skin irritation, itching, redness, etc. This neem product is also said to be useful in lightening scarring and pigmentation. Even skin infections caused by fungus and other parasites are treated with neem oil. It has been noted that this oil may be effective in treating psoriasis, scabies and eczema.
• It is also used in hair care. You might have heard about the use of neem oil for relief from dandruff and itching of scalp. Some people use it for controlling and preventing hair loss, hair thinning and premature graying. It is also used to treat conditions like scalp psoriasis.
• You can also get rid of head lice by using neem oil, which is also beneficial for nails, as it prevents cracking and peeling of nails. In some regions, nail infections, like, toenail fungus, are treated with neem oil.
• Neem oil can also be useful for maintaining the health of your pet dog. This neem product is said to ward off fleas, ticks and mites, from the dog's body. You may either use a neem dog shampoo, or add a few drops of the oil to your regular brand. Some people use neem oil spray, instead of neem dog shampoo.
• You might have heard about the use of neem oil as insecticide. This oil is very widely used in organic farming for the purpose of pest control and is said to be highly effective against aphids, flies, Japanese beetles, locusts, mites, mealy bugs, spider mites, etc. Even powdery mildew and black spots can be controlled with neem oil. It is diluted with water and a small amount of mild dish washing soap, before being sprayed on the plants. The ratio is one teaspoon of neem oil and ¼ teaspoon of liquid dish washing soap for one quart of water.

The above said is only a basic overview about neem oil uses and any use of this oil for health purposes, must be according to the instructions of a qualified herbalist or natural practitioner. Where to buy neem oil? This is one of the common queries about the product. You must buy it from authentic and trusted manufacturers only. Make sure that you know the right method of using neem oil for a particular purpose. Even though, some people recommend internal use of this oil, it is always better to avoid this, due to speculations about liver and kidney damage. Kids, pregnant and breastfeeding women and those who plant to get pregnant in the near future, must avoid use of neem oil.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.