The Neem tree grows throughout India and it is known for a long time for being the sarva roga nirvarini (capable of curing every illness). Every part of the tree has a use, so nothing is wasted when it comes to this tree. It is safe and has no side effects, but it does have quite an unpleasant smell. The neem oil that is produced from this tree is one of the best oils you can use on your skin and it can even act as a natural mosquito repellent. In today’s article we’re going to take a look at 10 awesome benefits of neem oil.
10. Great Mosquito Repellent
Neem oil is an awesome mosquito repellent. It’s even better than the commercial mosquito repellents that are filled with chemicals that not only harm those pesky insects but also you. Before you leave the house, put some neem oil on the exposed area of the skin and rest assured that mosquitos won’t bother you anymore.
9. It is a Great Pesticide
If it repels mosquitos, then you should know that it also repels other pesky critters such as agricultural pests. If you have a garden and you wish to make a natural pesticide, then you should use neem oil. Blend neem oil with water in a spray bottle and spray your plants with it. They’ll be fine, but the bugs won’t.
8. It treats Fungal Infections
You may have gotten the point that neem oil kills small bugs that are bothersome to humans. Well, good news doesn’t stop there. Neem oil will treat fungal infections such as the nail fungus and athlete’s foot. Put a generous amount of neem oil on your feet or nails, cover with socks and wash in the morning. Do it for 4-5 days and you’ll see great results.
7. It Can Reduce or Cure Dandruff
Another one of these great benefits of neem oil is the fact that it can reduce or cure dandruff altogether. Dandruff is caused by a little fungus. As we discussed above, neem oil is a great anti-fungal. It also prevents your scalp from becoming overly dry, itching and it can help with psoriasis on your scalp. It’s quite magical!
6. It Fights Aging
Neem oil has a very high level of antioxidants which are known to protect the skin from external damage. It’s also high in essential fatty acids, vitamins, it improves skin elasticity and it is easily absorbed by the skin. All this translates into neem oil being a great product to fight skin aging.
5. Makes Your Hair Healthy
Neem oil does not only fight dandruff, but it will also make your scalp and hair healthy. Heat it up a bit in a steam bath and combine it with coconut oil. The smell of it can be hard for some people to deal with. Massage the mixture into the scalp and leave it in overnight. Wash well in the morning and admire your shiny and healthy hair. Do this every week and in a month your hair will look amazing.
4. Remove Head Lice
Again, neem oil and small insects don’t mix. Neem oil is known for killing head lice. If you or your child have them, try neem oil first. If that doesn’t work, then you should turn to harsh chemicals to remove the lice. Leave the oil overnight and them comb hair to remove the lice.
3. It Fights Acne
Neem oil for the skin is absolutely amazing. When it comes to acne, neem oil will kill the bacteria that cause the acne the form and the fatty acid it contains will prevent the formation of scars. Also, neem oil is non-comedogenic, meaning that it will not clog the pores and cause pimples.
2. Improve Dry Skin and Eczema
Neem oil will not cure eczema, but it will improve your skin. It’s also amazing for really dry or itchy skin. The treatment for eczema is usually emollients, which act as a protective barrier. Neem oil is much more than just a barrier. It gives your skin the vitamins and acids it needs to repair itself.
1. Neem Oil is a Great Spermicide
One of neem oil’s most amazing benefits is that it is a great spermicide. Indian women have been using neem oil as a spermicide for thousands of years, and it does work! Lab tests have proved that neem oil kills all the sperm it comes into contact in less than 30 seconds. Talk to your doctor before using neem oil as a spermicide.
What are your thoughts on these benefits of neem oil? Have you tried neem oil? Is the smell something you can get over or does it bother you too much to use it? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.