Neem oil boasts an impressive list of health benefits, including its ability to provide hair care and skincare, protect the immune system, detoxify the body, boost oral health, repel insects, increase appetite, soothe inflammation, and benefit heart health among others.
What Is Neem Oil?
Neem oil is derived from the seeds and fruit of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), which is native to India and highly prized in that country is widely used for medicinal and agricultural purposes. Nimbin and azadirachtin are two of the key active antioxidants in neem oil which gives the oil its antiseptic, antifungal, antipyretic, and antihistamine properties. Depending on the method of extraction like cold-pressing, steam distillation or solvent extraction, the strength and potency of this oil may vary. The color of the oil may similarly vary, from pale yellow to hues of brown, green and red. [1] [2] [3] [4]
Neem oil is a vegetable oil pressed from the fruits and seeds of the neem. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Benefits of Neem Oil
Neem oil is effective in treating many health conditions and some of the important benefits of neem oil are discussed below.
Hair Care
In terms of hair health, neem oil is a common ingredient in hair masks, natural shampoos, conditioners and treatments for everything from frizzy hair to dandruff. The moisturizing, antibacterial, and nutrient-dense nature of the oil makes it ideal for optimizing hair health by preventing excess water from being absorbed by your hair.
Skin Care
Neem oil can be used for the skin in a variety of ways. It can protect against and treat various fungal infections on the skin and nails, while also eliminating inflammation and improving the appearance of blemishes and age spots. It can reduce the severity of sunburns, provide moisture to the skin, lower the occurrence of acne through its antibacterial action, and promote the growth of healthy new cells to give your skin a healthy glow.
Reduces Inflammation
From arthritis and headaches to acid reflux disease and psoriasis, the powerful anti-inflammatory compounds found in neem oil make this an effective remedy for a number of common conditions, including those that affect the scalp. [5]
Detoxifies the Body
Some people use neem oil for its diuretic properties, which help to stimulate urination, and thus the elimination of excess toxins, salts, fats and water from the body. This can help relieve the strain on the kidneys and the immune system. [6]
Stimulates Appetite
Traditionally, neem oil has been prescribed for people following an extended illness, injury or surgery, as it helps to stimulate the appetite and aid weight gain. This is also an excellent remedy for people who are struggling with an eating disorder or metabolic problems that cause weight loss or poor nutrient uptake.
Oral Health
The notable antibacterial and antiseptic properties of neem oil have made it a popular remedy for gingivitis, pyorrhea and other infections that can affect the gums and teeth. You can apply small amounts directly to the gums for rapid relief, as well as fresh breath. [7]
Controls Intestinal Ulcer
Intestinal ulcers are a result of imbalanced pH levels in the stomach. Acidity is caused because of the excessive secretion of gastric juices, which ultimately causes an ulcer. Neem is known to have potent gastro-protective and antiulcer effects. It restores the pH levels and soothes acidity in the stomach. [8]
Improves Heart Health
This oil is packed with fatty acids, including alpha-linolenic acid, linoleic acid, and oleic acid, as well as palmitic and stearic acid. In the proper amounts, these fats are essential for the body, and can even help to balance proper cholesterol levels in the body. Research has shown that neem oil can lower blood pressure, normalize heart palpitations, drop cholesterol levels and eliminate inflammation in blood vessels and arteries, leading to a lower risk of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.
Boosts Immune System
The antibacterial and antifungal activities of this oil make it a popular choice for those looking to boost their immune system and protect against various infections. The active ingredient in neem oil, azadirachtin, is known to break down the cell walls of bacteria and neutralize them before they can spread, providing rapid relief from a variety of bacterial infections. [9]
Neem Oil Uses
Not only is neem oil used in various cosmetic and personal care products, but it also finds its application in various other industries too. Below is a list of uses of neem oil:
- Agricultural Products: Neem oil is a natural fungicide, germicide, and pesticide, which finds its application in various agricultural products. It attacks various insects, interrupts their life-cycle and constrains their growth. The quality of crops treated with neem oil is better than those treated with chemicals. [10]
- Pet Care Products: Prevent your pets from getting attacked by ticks, fleas, and mites by spraying neem oil on their most favorite corner of the house. This oil is like Ayurvedic medicine for your beloved pets. It also helps to cure their body rashes, scabies, and other skin disorders. [11]
- Personal Care Products: Neem oil is widely used in personal care products including cosmetics and hair care products such as hair oil, shampoos, and conditioners.
- Insecticides: Not just mosquitoes, neem oil is effective to repel bed bugs, cockroaches, ants, and termites too. That makes it a home insecticide. It also repels garden insects like powdery mildew, fungicide caterpillars, and beetles. [12]
- Contraceptives: According to a study, tests performed on rats, monkeys, and humans revealed that neem oil highly effective as a contraceptive. When used intra-vaginally before sexual intercourse, it was 100% effective in preventing pregnancy in test subjects. Studies also suggest that its use does not have any side effects. [13]
How to Buy and Store Neem Oil?
It is best to buy organic neem oil since contaminated or solvent mixed ones would be less potent, more harmful and will have limited applications. Therefore, read the labels in detail, also noting their expiry date. The oil is best suited for use until two years of manufacturing and in a transparent bottle, the neem oil should appear cloudy and yellow in color. Avoiding buying its extracts since they are less potent.
Store them in a dark and cold area, probably your refrigerator. It may easily solidify. However, keeping the bottle in lukewarm water would get it back in its liquid form. It is important to note that boiling water would break down its most essential component azadirachtin. Therefore, only lukewarm to warm water is advisable for re-liquefaction.
Side Effects of Neem Oil
Use of neem oil does come with the risk of certain side effects that include the following:
- Autoimmune Disease – As a result of the immune-stimulating nature of neem oil, it is not recommended for use by people with autoimmune diseases, as this can exacerbate these conditions.
- Allergic Reactions – Some people, particularly those with sensitive skin, may experience serious side effects that include redness, itching, swelling and irritation. Ingestion of this oil may also affect the respiratory tracts.
- Gastrointestinal Distress – Intake of neem oil in large quantities for more than 2.5 months may cause gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramping and bloating.
- Hypoglycemia – While this oil can be beneficial for people with diabetes, or those who are at high risk, it can also cause blood sugar to drop to dangerous levels, particularly if it is used in conjunction with medication intended to lower blood sugar.
- Pregnancy – This oil can act as an emmenagogue and abortifacient, which is why traditionally, it has been used as a form of contraception. Use of this oil is not recommended during pregnancy as it may stimulate menstruation or a miscarriage.
- Fertility – In rare cases, this oil can affect sperm levels in men, resulting in lowered levels of fertility. If you have low sperm count or motility, it is best to avoid the use of this oil.
