9 Benefits & How to Use It

Neem is one of the most commonly used natural remedies in Ayurvedic medicine. Neem, or Indian Lilac, contains effective antiseptic, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytochemicals. (1)

Neem oil is extracted from the bark and seeds of the neem tree. (2) It has powerful plant compounds (such as azadirachtin) that can be useful in curing acne, stimulating hair growth, fighting infections, etc. (3)

Neem oil has a number of health benefits for you, especially when it comes to skin and hair. (4)

Neem oil for hair

Neem oil can help increase blood circulation to the scalp and stimulate hair growth. It also has antimicrobial properties that can help fight dandruff and scalp infections.

Here are some of the using neem oil for your hair:

1. Reduces dandruff

Neem oil contains beneficial plant compounds such as nimbidinwhich is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, and azadirachtinan antifungal agent. (5) So, applying neem oil to your scalp can help reduce dandruff and scalp irritation. (6)

You can add 2-3 drops of neem oil to 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and massage the oil all over your scalp. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes before washing it off.

2. Supports hair health and stimulates hair growth

Neem oil improves blood flow to the scalp, stimulates healthy hair growth and protects hair from damage due to its high antioxidant content. (1) Recent studies have shown that it helps increase hair growth in men and women suffering from alopecia. (7)

You can make a neem hair mask by mixing a few drops of neem oil with 2 teaspoons of coconut oil and 1 teaspoon of sandalwood powder. Apply the mixture evenly to your scalp and hair. Let it sit for half an hour before washing it off with cold water.

3. Prevents head lice

Azadirachtin, present in neem oil, is a strong insecticide and helps kill head lice. Insects are repelled by the smell of neem oil, which also prevents head lice infestations. (8) Neem oil also helps reduce the itching and irritation caused by lice.

You can mix a few drops of neem oil with some coconut oil and apply the oil mixture to your scalp. Wash it off after half an hour.

4. Manages scalp infections

Neem oil has strong antimicrobial properties that help treat scalp infections. It can reduce itching and inflammation and help kill the bacteria or fungi responsible.

You can mix neem oil with some carrier oil and apply this mixture directly to your scalp. Wash it off after 30-40 minutes.

Neem oil for the skin

Neem oil can provide the following benefits to the skin.

1. Treats acne

Neem oil has been used for centuries as a traditional acne remedy. It contains powerful antibiotic properties that reduce acne. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents help relieve irritation and redness.

Apply 2-3 drops of neem oil mixed with 1 tablespoon of yogurt on the affected area. Wash it off after 10 minutes.

2. Fights signs of aging

Neem oil helps promote collagen production and increase skin elasticity. This helps makes the skin look younger and fresher.

Two drops of neem oil can be mixed with some sandalwood powder and yogurt to make an anti-aging mask. Apply this mask to your skin. Let it dry for 15-20 minutes before washing it off.

3. Manages dry and flaky skin conditions

Neem oil has moisturizing properties that can help hydrate and soften the skin. It reduces dryness and flaky skin.

You can mix a few drops of neem oil with your moisturizer and apply the mixture directly to your skin.

4. Treats fungal infections

Neem has antifungal properties that can be useful in fighting fungal infections of the skin. It can reduce itching and fungal growth. (9)

You can apply neem oil mixed with a carrier oil directly to the affected area.

5. Reduces wrinkles

Neem oil is rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants that help increase collagen production in the skin. Collagen helps firm the skin reduce wrinkles and subsidence. You can mix a few drops of neem oil with coconut oil and apply the oil mixture directly to your skin. (9)

Tips for using neem oil

Here are some additional tips for storing and using neem oil:

• Always store neem oil in a cool and dry place, away from heat or sunlight.
• You can mix some fragrant oil, such as lavender or rose oil, into the jar of neem oil to mask the smell of neem.
• Do not apply neem oil near your eyes.
• Do not use neem oil.

Precautions to consider

Neem oil can be a powerful ingredient, so never apply it directly to your skin without dilution. In addition, do not use neem oil. (10)

Children, people with liver or kidney disease, and people allergic to neem should not use neem oil.

Last word

Neem oil is a powerful natural oil that has many benefits for the skin and hair. It is easy to use and affordable and does not have many side effects.

Give it a try for your skin care needs and see the difference for yourself.