The neem tree, also known as Azadirachta indica or Indian lilac, is the source of the neem herb.
The extract, which is derived from the tree’s seeds, is traditionally used for a wide variety of purposes. In addition to its well-known use in pesticides and insecticides, neem is also a popular ingredient in cosmetics and health aids like toothpaste and hair conditioner.
You’ll find out in this piece if neem is safe to use and what advantages it offers.
Benefits
It’s no surprise that neem shows up in so many all-natural toothpastes and shampoos.
Most people know that neem oil can keep mosquitoes and sand fleas away. Insect pests like termites can be managed and pests like moths can be repelled with the aid of other neem varieties.
Neem is included in some tick and flea repellent shampoos for animals. To protect livestock from parasites and insects, it could be mixed into feed or grain.
By scavenging harmful free radicals, neem may help prevent the onset of certain diseases. It has powerful anti-inflammatory properties as well.
As an antimicrobial, neem may be useful against various pathogens.
Some research suggests that neem, which is effective against mosquitoes, may also be useful in preventing malaria. Mosquitoes spread malaria because they harbor a parasite that causes the disease. Every year, it’s responsible for approximately 219 million cases of illness and 435,000 deaths around the world (Reliable Source).
Uses
Neem is most commonly found in cosmetics aimed at improving the appearance of one’s hair and skin. There is not enough evidence to say whether or not neem extract capsules have any medical benefits, but some people take them anyway.
The oil has a garlicky or sulfurous odor and is brown or yellow in color. It tastes extremely bitter if swallowed.
Even though there isn’t a ton of data on neem’s benefits for hair, anecdotal evidence suggests it might help with:
Several commercially available shampoos that claim to treat dandruff feature the use of Neem as one of their key ingredients. There is no evidence that neem helps with dandruff, but it is an anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial, so it might help.
Lice: One study found that neem was an effective treatment for both lice and nits. Only 12 children in the study were found to have lice, but after using a shampoo formulated with neem, their hair was completely free of both lice and nits. After treatment, no lice were seen for 7-10 days, and the treatment was well tolerated.
Neem can also be found in dental hygiene products like tooth powders, tooth rinses, and toothpastes. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of neem make it an effective remedy for toothache pain and other dental issues like gingivitis.
How to apply
Shampoos and styling gels, among other products, may contain neem as an additive from time to time. Individuals who prefer to take matters into their own hands often incorporate neem oil into their regular shampoo.
When applied to damp hair, neem oil can help tame frizz and restore smoothness.
For dental health, people can chew on neem twigs to help clean the teeth or relieve tooth pain.
Risks
However, neem can cause allergic reactions in some people.
Though neem has been deemed generally safe for use, some people may be allergic or sensitive to it.
It’s recommended to perform a patch test prior to using neem for the first time. Apply a small amount of neem oil to your inner forearm and rub it in.
In 24 hours, you can check the area to see if there was any reaction. If redness, swelling, itching, or pain develops after using the oil, that’s a sign that you might be allergic to it.
However, there is no specific research on the effects of neem in children, and the general consensus is that children are more sensitive to pesticides like neem oil.
Before giving an alternative medicine to a child or using it while pregnant, it’s best to consult a doctor.
Summary
All parts of the Indian lilac tree, or neem, can be used to make a variety of useful products. In the past, people have used neem as a natural remedy for a variety of illnesses.
Neem is now widely used by many as an alternative pesticide. Many people take it to improve their overall health, particularly their hair and teeth.
A test patch and a discussion with a doctor are recommended prior to applying neem cosmetics to a child, but in general, neem can be used safely as a cosmetic.