Medicinal and cosmetic products have become a daily essential. The benefits of Neem oil are well known for its antiseptic and skin beneficiary properties. Neem tree is rightfully associated with 'Nature's drugstore.' Listed below are some benefits of Neem Oil.
What is Neem Oil?
The neem tree grows in the Indian subcontinent. Neem oil can be derived from the seeds and fruits of the tree. The herbal oil is derived by pressing the seeds. It is known for a wide range of properties that are useful for cosmetic as well as medicinal applications. The neem oil is yellowish-brown in colour and has a bitter taste.
Neem oil is made of ingredients like fatty, oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids. As per studies, fatty and linoleic acids maintain epidermal strength. These acids also help retain the moisture content for a longer duration.
From the bark to the leaves, every part of the neem tree is useful for several health benefits. These include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial benefits. It is due to the presence of polyphenol and flavonoid compounds. Apart from this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) confirms the presence of azadirachtin, a natural pesticide in neem oil.
Neem Oil Nutritional Facts
Neem oil benefits for the skin are due to the nutritional values of the acids that are present in it. The ingredients of neem oil that are beneficial to the skin include:
- Antioxidants
- Fatty acids (EPA)
- Limonoids
- Vitamin E
- Triglycerides
- Calcium
The neem oil has 15% linoleic acid and 50% oleic acid. As per a study conducted on rats, neem oil has more nutritional benefits as compared to groundnut oil. The rats under study showed good growth performance when subjected to a 10% neem oil-based diet.
How is Neem Oil extracted?
As mentioned, the neem oil is derived from the seeds and fruits of the neem tree using the pressing technique. The cold-pressing technique is known to extract the maximum quantity of quality virgin oil from the neem seeds. It is also the oldest known technique.
In this technique, the neem seeds are first cleared off any pulp and dry completely. After that, the seeds are separated from any husk and kernels are segregated from them. These kernels are responsible for the quality, colour, and odour of the neem oil. They are pressed for extracting the neem oil.
A fresh batch of seeds will yield oil that is lighter in colour and one that has a less pungent odour. The quality of the neem oil is greatly dependent on the efficiency of its extraction method.
Benefits of Neem Oil For Skin
Neem extracts have a large variety of benefits that help treat several skin diseases. These include -
- Acne
- Ringworm
- Eczema
- Warts
Neem oil for acne is quite effective and is also backed by research carried out in 2013. There are several other neem benefits for skin. Listed below are some of these neem oil benefits for the skin.
1. Moisturises the Skin
Dry skin could cause itching and cracks. Neem oil comprises Vitamin E and Fatty acids that help retain moisture in the skin. They also aid in healing the cracks.
The acids also help restore the protective layer of skin and prevent moisture loss through pores. To use the Neem oil, it should be massaged with Neem oil solution with Sesame or Almond oil in 70/30 proportion. This oil should be massaged gently on the skin and allowed to settle for half an hour.
2. Treats Acne, Inflamed and Itchy Skin Conditions
Neem oil for acne and pimples is an excellent long term treatment. Regular application of neem oil on the face helps manage the conditions of acne. Apart from this, it also eliminates bacteria and promotes skin health.
The neem oil application is known to reduce histamine production, a chemical responsible for swelling and other skin infections. Further, the presence of anti-inflammatory substances, such as Nimbidin, helps treat eczema and prevent skin infections by reducing any discomfort caused due to inflammation.
The neem oil is rich in anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help manage these conditions. Hence, neem oil for pimples, acne, and inflammation is effective.
3. Heals Minor Wounds and Keeps Insects Away
The presence of azadirachtin, which is a well-known pesticide, is found in neem oil. It repels insects, including malaria-causing mosquitoes. The pungent odour of the oil also helps in the same.
In addition, Neem oil is widely popular for its antiseptic properties. Applying neem oil for minor cuts and bruises could help boost the body's immune system. This helps in speeding the healing process of the wounds.
4. Prevents Premature Aging of Skin
The neem oil has enough elements that act as a natural alternative for anti-ageing products. It could reduce and prevent wrinkles and fine lines on the face. Apart from this, neem oil contains carotenoids that help to manage ageing better. As per studies, neem oil is rightly known for its anti-ageing properties to be used in topical medicine preparations.
5. Treats Hyper Pigmentation and Levels The Skin Tone
As mentioned, neem oil can easily remove the pathogens that have accumulated on the skin pore layers. The antiseptic properties allow unclogging of the skin pores and hence free them for smoother skin. It is a good toner, i.e., neem oil lightens skin tone.
Neem oil for skin pigmentation is an effective treatment option. The excess accumulation of melanin at one place is called hyperpigmentation. Applying neem oil on the face reduces the production of melanin pigment.
6. Treats Scars and Blackheads
Neem oil consists of fatty, oleic, and other such acids. These acids help in the regeneration of the dead cell tissues. As a result, it reduces the marks of blackheads and scars on the skin.
Apart from this, applying neem oil on the face helps form a protective layer on the skin. The layer is known to have antioxidant properties, which help lighten any leftover marks from the affected area.
7. Protects Skin and Has Antifungal Properties
Neem oil is also called a miracle medication for skin conditions. It is used for melanin related issues. The neem oil for skin allergy and its anti-inflammatory properties are used in a number of applications.
Also, the diluted neem oil is used to treat fungal infections such as the athlete's foot. Antifungal properties of neem oil are quite highly efficient and are known to promote healthy recovery and quick growth.
Also Read: Benefits Of Neem Face Pack For Flawless, Glowing Skin
How to Use Neem Oil
It is essential to know a product before beginning to use it. It sets a base for the product you are about to use. Make sure when you open the package, check the colour of the neem oil is yellowish and cloudy. The smell must resemble that of the smell of garlic or mustard. When not in use, store it in a cool and dark place.
Before using the oil, conduct a small arm patch test. For this, apply some neem oil on a small patch of your hand and leave it overnight. If there is no allergic reaction, the oil is good to use.
To use Neem oil, follow these steps -
- Gently dab the area to be marked using a cotton swab. Allow this to soak in for nearly 20 minutes
- Wash off with warm water and continue until you achieve the desired result
As a general usage procedure, you must see to it that the neem oil is mixed with another carrier oil in 50/50 proportion. It may include any fragrant oil or simply a carrier oil.
Uses of Neem Oil
There are multiple uses of neem oil that make it a widely popular medication. It is used for a distinct range of applications. Listed below are some important uses of Neem oil.
1. Manages Dry Hair Conditions and Treats Lice Problem
The neem oil is known for its constituents of oleic and linoleic acids, which help for hair growth and scalp nourishment. These acids are also known for retaining hair, scalp, and skin moisture, which is useful in revitalizing dry hair.
As per studies, the neem seed extract is known to help treat lice conditions. It kills the lice and thereby helps reduce the irritation in the scalp. The presence of azadirachtin, which is an insecticide, helps in this condition by disrupting the reproduction and growth of lice.
In addition, the neem oil has a pungent odour that repels lice, which also helps prevent lice problems. Applying the neem oil overnight would help kill all the lice. Comb your hair in the morning to remove all the dead lice from the hair.
2. Promotes Hair Growth and Prevents Hair Loss
Neem oil is known for its regenerative and follicle growth properties. It’s also a major constituent of all the major hair care products.
3. Treats Dandruff and Scalp Infections
Neem oil is known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and fungicidal properties. Studies have shown that the use of neem oil on hair is useful in treating Trichophyton, Microsporum, and many more scalp infections.
The neem oil also provides a soothing effect to relax the head. Further, neem oil is also known to treat the condition of the flaky scalp that causes dandruff. The antifungal properties of neem oil treat flaky scalp by acting on the Malassezia fungus, which causes the condition.
4. Prevents Premature Hair Greying
Premature hair greying can occur due to hormonal changes and stress. However, neem oil is known to manage hormonal imbalances. This helps delay the hair greying.
5. Used In Pesticides
Neem oil and neem tree elements are used in almost every other pesticide. They protect the crops by killing and keeping insects away from damaging the crops.
6. Preparation of medicines
Neem is rightly known as nature's drugstore. Neem is known for its antiseptic properties to prepare medications for a number of skin and hair conditions. Blood disorder, cancer, digestive issues are some of the medications where neem oil is essentially used.
7. Skin Enhancing Products
The medication of neem oil for skin allergy and pimples neem oil for dark circles are some of the most common skincare options. Due to its antifungal, anti-inflammatory nature, neem oil has found a place in the realm of aromatherapy (plant and oil-based therapy).
Precautions to Follow
The use of any products should always be done under a proper prescription by an expert. In the case of neem and neem oil products, the same follows. Although the neem oil, if used rightly, has no side effects yet, an expert prescription before use is always advised.
- Neem oil is a potential product with a significant number of nutrients present. It could greatly affect anyone with sensitive skin. Also, people with a condition of eczema should not use neem oil.
- For first time users, the patch method should be used. Take a small amount of neem oil and mix with a carrier oil in sufficient proportion. Now let it be for 24 hours. If any itching sensation develops, mix a higher proportion of carrier oil. Severe rashes and breathing difficulties are some signs of an allergic reaction. You should stop using it in such cases and go for an expert's prescription.
- Consult a doctor before using neem oil on children.
- Avoid the use of neem oil during pregnancy and breastfeeding as there are no relevant studies supporting its usage benefits.
- Do not consume neem oil. It is toxic in nature.
Summing Up on Neem Oil for Skin
Neem Oil for the skin is one of the most talked-about topics in recent times. The extraction method of the oil dates to hundreds of years ago and is still used here. The cold-pressing technique where the quality of seed kernels determines the quality and colour of your neem oil.
The usage of neem oil needs special precaution as they consist of a large number of nutrients. Knowing the neem oil and its ingredients completely is the best practice.
For that purpose, carrying out the patch test is advised.
Neem oil finds applications in a number of places and can be assigned more once the existing methods are tried and tested. Alongside the skin, neem oil is also useful in a number of hair and scalp condition treatments.
Today, it is used in a large variety of products for enhanced hair growth. However, not everyone responds well to the same compound. Make sure by using the trial and error method, as it is the most suited recommended solution.
Being an oil, the neem oil is easily binding on a general level and an inexpensive treatment method for conditions related to hair and skin health.
FAQs
Can Neem Oil Be Applied Directly to the Skin?
Yes, you can apply neem oil to the skin directly. Although there is no reason why you shouldn't apply neem oil directly to the skin, if you are using it for the first time, a patch test must be carried out. For this test, take a small amount of neem oil and dilute it with the required amount of carrier oil.
Apply this solution to a small area of your arm. Leave it for 24 hours. You will know if an allergic reaction occurs through irritation. If it happens, consult a doctor immediately.
Can I Apply Neem Oil on Face at Night?
Yes, you can apply neem oil on your face at night. The duration of allowing the neem oil for the skin has to be very limited. If you apply the neem oil at night, do not leave it on for more than half an hour maximum. For applying during the night, mix the neem oil and carrier oil (almond/sesame oil) in a 50/50 proportion.
You will have to be extra careful about the neem oil solution to keep it away from the eyes. Remember, do not leave neem oil on your face overnight.
Does Neem Oil Darken Skin?
No, neem oil does not darken the skin. On the other hand, neem oil for skin pigmentation effectively uses the oill. It acts on the melanin compound present in the human body and reduces any blemishes, dark spots, or scars on your body. Neem oil for dark circles is recommended for getting rid of the melanin collection. It is a good skin toner.
Can Neem Oil Be Used in All Seasons?
Yes, Neem oil can be used in all seasons and all year round. However, the carrier oil might differ during different seasons based on suitability that varies from person to person.
References
- Norisca A. Putriana, Azizul Hakim, In Vitro Effectiveness of Neem Oil (Azadirachta Indica A. Juss) Shampoo as Anti Head Lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) - http://jurnal.unpad.ac.id/pcpr/article/view/25780
- C. Cardet, January 1998; Efficiency of neem and groundnut oils in protecting leguminous tree seeds against seed beetles in the Sahel - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/226298040
- P Berbis , June 1990; Essential fatty acids and the skin - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2143069/
