Did you know that ancient Ayurvedic texts describe the Neem tree as Sarva Roga Nivarini? This simply translates into universal healer or curer of all ailments. Neem is considered sacred, and over time, the tree of legend has come to symbolise good health and protection. After all, it is often referred to as the ‘village pharmacy’ as each part of the neem tree can be used to improve one’s overall well-being, and treat various ailments.

For example, the twigs are used as toothbrushes; the leaves are boiled in water to treat skin problems (remember those days you’d bathe with neem water to soothe those itchy Chicken Pox?); the neem flowers are used for aromatherapy; the seed as well as the fruit, is used to extract the very powerful and potent neem oil. Besides, all of the benefits of the neem plant—the antiseptic, anti-viral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties, are found in the potent extract knows as neem oil.

Of course, this means that neem oil has multiple benefits and uses—as a cosmetic and medicinal product—making is a popular choice for people who are turning to homegrown, natural remedies and are adopting an organic lifestyle, particularly during this time of lockdown and a global crisis looming large. Neem is a great way to bolster one’s immunity, too.

And while using neem oil as a primary component in formulations for various products like gels, lotions, face serums, body soaps, and shampoos is a regular practice, using organic neem oil after diluting it with a carrier oil like almond or coconut oil, and applying this mixture directly on your hair, has proven to be the most beneficial.

1. Uses of Neem Oil
2. Stimulates Hair Growth
3. Conditions Dry Hair
4. Helps With Dandruff And Itchiness
5. Treats Head Lice
6. Effectively Treats Scalp Infections
7. FAQs 

Uses of Neem Oil

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Neem oil is a must-have in every household for numerous reasons. Irrespective of your age, gender, or skin type, you can benefit from using neem oil. Are you dealing with acne? Neem oil makes for excellent spot treatment. Do you have a scalp that’s prone to dandruff? Simply dilute neem oil with a carrier oil, and massage the mixture into your scalp for an effective treatment.

Why you might ask? It’s because neem oil purifies, repairs, and heals from head to toe. Here’s how it can heal:

• Neem oil can treat acne and hyperpigmentation
• It can heal burns and abrasions
• It is known to moisturise the skin
• It can relieve you of dandruff
• It is known to stimulate hair growth
• It’s an effective way to treat head lice
• It helps treat fungal infections
• It’s a great way to repair environmental damage to the skin and hair

Now while we have understood the many benefits that neem has on one’s overall health and well-being, let’s examine precisely how neem oil can benefit one’s hair. Packed with antioxidants that prevent hair loss, neem oil is the nature’s answer to all hair and scalp woes. However, when using this natural wonder, we suggest diluting the extract in a 50-50 ratio of neem oil and a carrier oil and gently massaging the same directly into the roots of the hair and scalp. We suggest letting it sit for at least 30 minutes, before cleansing your hair with a natural, chemical-free cleanser.

Stimulates Hair Growth

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Did you know that neem oil has regenerative properties? This means, it’s a great and effective way to support healthy cell division, increases blood circulation, and stimulate the hair follicle to encourage growth and function. And while it encourages hair growth, it also counters hair thinning and hair fall caused by environmental triggers like pollution, stress, or even medication.

Moreover, neem’s anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antioxidant properties are said to help prevent baldness as it treats scalp issues like psoriasis, a condition which can lead to permanent hair loss if left untreated. This means a regular topical application of neem oil will promote thicker, stronger, and healthy hair growth.

Pro Tip: When applying the neem oil mixture to your hair and scalp, ensure you apply adequate pressure with your fingertips to help stimulate the follicles and allow for some relaxation as well.

Conditions Dry Hair

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Any Indian growing up knows the benefits of a relaxing ‘champi’ when it comes to hair care. And this holds, no matter your choice of hair oil. However, adding neem oil with a carrier oil of your choice, and a regular application of the same, will result in a healthy head of hair that’s thick and lustrous. Why? Because neem oil contains several fatty acids—linoleic acid, oleic acid, and stearic acid—all said to nourish the scalp and hair. These fatty acids help revitalise and restore dry, damaged, under-nourished, and rough or brittle hair.

Pro Tip: After application, we suggest allowing the oil to penetrate your scalp and hair follicles by wrapping your hair in a hot towel. The steam will open the pores and allow the oil to seep in deeper for a deep conditioning effect.

Helps With Dandruff And Itchiness

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Not a lot of us are aware that the primary cause of dandruff is fungi Candida and Malassezia. Dandruff, characterised by dry, flaky skin on the scalp, can at times prove to be quite embarrassing and uncomfortable for the person dealing with the problem. Neem oil, for its anti-fungal properties, makes for an effective remedy to combat the dandruff-causing fungi. Moreover, neem oil goes a step further it the treatment of dandruff by soothing an irritated scalp and providing relief from inflammation and itchiness, a side-effect of dandruff.

Pro Tip: For those prone to dandruff, n ensure you use neem oil should regularly. This helps to maintain the pH balance of the scalp and prevents dandruff formation.

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Studies have shown that neem oil has proven to be an effective treatment against head lice. According to research, a neem treatment for lice has no side effects as it contains azadirachtin, an insecticidal ingredient, that is said to disrupt the growth and reproduction of lice, eventually and effectively killing them. Moreover, studies suggest that neem’s pungent odour repels lice and hence works as a great preventive measure, too.

Pro Tip: An effective and perhaps permanent treatment for lice is a regular application of neem oil. Simply allow the oil to remain in your hair overnight, and use a fine-tooth comb to remove dead lice the next day. Repeating this treatment weekly is ideal for keeping lice at bay.

Effectively Treats Scalp Infections

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As we have mentioned over and over, neem oil is a potent elixir for all health woes as it comes with strong healing (anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral) properties. Moreover, neem oil is an effective way to regulate the secretion of sebum, thereby normalising the dryness or oiliness of the scalp. It further has a cooling and soothing effect, which promotes relaxation.

Pro Tip: Weekly applications of a neem hair oil treatment can help stave off several hair woes, while also promoting relaxation and calm, a must-try for all those dealing with some form of anxiety.

FAQs 

Q. Can one apply neem oil directly to the hair and scalp?

Answer: Yes, albeit a diluted version as pure neem oil can cause irritation, and further aggravate the problem. It is recommended you add a few drops of neem oil with a carrier oil before applying it to hair and scalp. You must gently massage and leave the oil on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing. A great way to reap the benefits is to wrap hair in a warm towel for added efficacy or a deep conditioning effect.

Q. How often should one apply neem oil to hair and scalp?

Answer: Frequent use is recommended to help treat certain hair conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, or even itchiness. However, it is recommended you apply diluted neem oil once per day, and leave it on for 1 to 2 hours at a time. Note that daily application, and leaving it on your hair overnight or using it more frequently may result in irritation. A patch test and trail is recommended for more frequent usage.