Health Benefits of Neem Oil

Updated May 30, 2018
Leaves of a Neem tree
Leaves of a Neem tree. abc / Getty Images

Neem oil is a natural substance extracted from the seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), an evergreen native to India. Long used in certain systems of traditional medicine (such as Ayurveda), neem oil is thought to offer a number of benefits when applied to the skin and/or hair.

Neem oil contains several fatty acids thought to be beneficial to the skin, such as oleic acid and linoleic acid.

Uses for Neem Oil

In alternative medicine, neem oil is often used in the treatment of problems like dandruff and dry scalp. In these cases, neem oil is typically diluted in a carrier oil, massaged into the scalp, and left to sit for a period of time (usually 30 minutes or more) before rinsing.

In addition, neem oil is used to treat nail fungus and acne. Neem oil is also said to soften the skin.

Some proponents also suggest that neem oil can act as a natural insect repellent. Known as "azadirachtins," certain compounds found in neem oil are thought to possess insecticidal properties.

Benefits of Neem Oil

Although research on the medicinal use of neem oil is fairly limited, there's some evidence that neem oil may act as an antimicrobial (a type of substance that kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi).

A number of studies also show that shampoos containing neem oil may help treat head lice.

In a 2011 study published in Parasitology Research, for example, scientists used a neem-based shampoo on 12 children with head lice. They found that a one-time, 10-minute treatment with the shampoo destroyed all head lice. Repeating the experiment with eight other children, the study's authors observed that a one-time, 20-minute treatment delivered similar results.

What's more, several other studies suggest that that neem-based shampoo may get rid of head lice and their eggs without triggering any side effects.

Additionally, preliminary research indicates that neem oil may help protect against insect bites. In a study published in the Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health in 1995, for instance, scientists discovered that a blend of neem oil and coconut oil may act as a mosquito repellent.

Caveats

Since some individuals experience allergic reactions to neem oil, it's important to discontinue use of the oil if you experience symptoms such as itching or reddening of the skin.

It should also be noted that neem oil has a strong, pungent smell similar to that of garlic or sulfur.

In addition, neem oil should not be taken orally unless under the direction of a qualified herbalist or healthcare professional.

Using Neem Oil for Health

Due to the lack of supporting research, it's too soon to recommend neem oil as a treatment for any condition. If you're considering using it, talk to your doctor to weigh the potential risks and benefits. Keep in mind that alternative medicine should not be used as a substitute for standard care. Self-treating a condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.

View Article Sources
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  • Abdel-Ghaffar F, Semmler M. "Efficacy of Neem Seed Extract Shampoo on Head Lice of Naturally Infected Humans in Egypt. " Parasitol Res. 2007 Jan;100(2):329-32.
  • Heukelbach J, Oliveira FA, Speare R. "A New Shampoo Based on Neem (Azadirachta Indica) Is Highly Effective Against Head Lice in Vitro. " Parasitol Res. 2006 Sep;99(4):353-6.
  • Mehlhorn H, Abdel-Ghaffar F, Al-Rasheid KA, Schmidt J, Semmler M. "Ovicidal Effects of a Neem Seed Extract Preparation on Eggs of Body and Head Lice. " Parasitol Res. 2011 Apr 12.
  • Sharma SK, Dua VK, Sharma VP. "Field Studies on the Mosquito Repellent Action of Neem Oil. " Southeast Asian J Trop Med Public Health. 1995 Mar;26(1):180-2.