Neem

Azadirachta indica

Neem Carrier Oil is one of the most popular choices for use in the manufacturing of soaps, cosmetics, and massage oils. It is pressed from the tree's seed kernels and is prized for its antiviral, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

The Azadirachta indica botanical, better known as the Neem Tree, is believed to have originated in either India or Burma. When it was discovered that the tree can thrive in any warm, dry regions, migrating Indians introduced it to other lands including Africa, Fiji, Mauritius, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia. Its resistance to droughts and its tolerance to heat are factors that contribute to its long lifespan of up to 200 years.

Neem is well known for its beneficial effects on the skin and in scalp disorders.  Its antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and fungicide properties, make it perfect for itchy, dry hair and scalp conditions.  It helps restore body and shine to dry, damaged and delicate hair and helps mend the appearance of split ends.

Considered by the people of India to be sacred, the Neem tree has come to symbolize good health and protection.  Traditionally Neem oil was used topically to address such ailments as fevers, respiratory issues, tetanus infections, rheumatism, arthritis, jaundice, malaria, ringworm, lice, fungal and bacterial infections of the skin, scabies, hives, eczema, psoriasis, and gastrointestinal diseases.  Historically, Neem Oil was even used as a topical contraceptive.

 

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  • Studied Properties
  • Common Uses

Studied Properties

The specifications and chemical composition of neem can vary according to variety, climate and environment.

SPECIFICATIONS

APPEARANCE                           Murky brownish coloured liquid

ODOUR                                    Strong aromatic odour

SPECIFIC GRAVITY @20°C          0.950 to 0.9400

REFRACTIVE INDEX @20°C        1.457 to 1.475

FLASHPOINT                             340°C

 

GENERAL CHEMICAL COMPOSITION

The main chemical constituents of Neem Oil are:

Palmitic Acid

Stearic Acid

Oleic Acid

Linoleic  Acid

Arachidic

 

ALLERGENS: No known allergens.

Common Uses

Properties:

Neem oil is high in antioxidant Vitamin E and rich in emollients and fatty acids which help to improve fragile skin and restore a soft, smooth and healthy condition. It is useful for treating infected wounds and dry, ulcerated or inflamed skin conditions such as eczema. It is suitable for acne prone skin and for treating athlete's foot and other fungal conditions.  It is also used as an ingredient in many natural head lice treatments and mosquito repellents.  It is a good base oil to use for individuals who are recuperating after illness or for therapists working in the hospital or care home environment.

It is well documented in Ayurvedic texts as medicine against skin and scalp diseases. Neem research centres include: Cambridge University's Medical Entomology Centre, UK Inveresk Research Centre, Glasgow, Scotland Griffith University, Queensland, Australia Harvard University, USA.

Skincare:

Neem oil is ideal in skincare products for its excellent moisturising, regenerative and restructuring properties.  The concentrated essential fatty acids help to restore moisture and elasticity to the skin by seeping in deeply to help heal cracked and dried skin.  Neem stimulates collagen production which slows down the aging process of the skin.

Haircare:

As this oil is moisturizing, antibacterial and full of nutrients, it is a very useful ingredient in shampoo, conditioner and hair treatments for dandruff, hair masks and frizzy hair. It will restore damaged hair, moisturize, soothe and help heal dry and itchy scalp and any skin inflammation of the scalp. Used as a regular warm oil treatment, combined with olive oil or coconut oil it will promote hair growth, resulting in strong shiny healthy hair. Due to its insecticidal properties, it can also be a very effective head-lice treatment.