Neem – Antelaea azadirachta
Neem oil is especially popular oil in the far east where its many therapeutic values have been appreciated for centuries. For some reason the west is yet to catch on as to how valuable this oil is. This oil is a truly ancient oil with records showing it has been serving mankind for over 5000 years. It is used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine and is a familiar oil on the Indian subcontinent from where it originates.
Neem oil can be used in your skincare regime to help with a variety of problems. It is a natural antibacterial oil that helps reduce acne breakouts. Neem Oil can also encourage the growth of new skin cells giving the skin a radiant healthy glow. It has effective anti-fungal properties which can treat various fungal infections of the skin and nails. Soothing on sunburn and lastly, it is said to be able to reduce skin blemishes and age spots.
Neem oil is also a useful oil for hair care. Often used in natural conditioners and shampoos the oil is full of nutrients that help tame hair that is prone to frizzing and reduces dandruff.
Full of powerful anti-inflammatory compounds, Neem oil is a good choice when looking for an oil to reduce the discomfort of joint pains such as arthritis.
Neem and Nature
Furthermore, Neem is a wonderful insect repellent. A few drops dotted on your clothes (I suggest on hems and turn-ups to prevent staining) will keep even the most blood-thirsty mosquito at bay and a few drops on tissues around your room will keep your room clear too. But let’s not forget all the other creepy crawlies that like to share our space like bed bugs, ants and cockroaches. The oil can be used to make an effective insect repellent for the garden and used as a spray on a variety of garden pests.
Our pets can also benefit from a regular spray with a solution made with Neem oil which can prevent ticks, fleas, and mites. Don’t miss a quick spray on their bedding. The oil will also help with their skin disorders gently and naturally.
Uses
- Helps to sooth inflammation
- Thought to help the healing of scars
- Useful for dry skin conditions
Characteristics
Category: Tree
Origin: Asia
Extraction Method: Cold Pressed
Part of Plant Used: Seeds
Aroma: Similar to garlic
Product Identifier
CAS number 8002–65–1
Principal Constituents
- Palmitic acid 13 – 15%
- Oleic acid 50 – 60%
- Linoleic acid 8 – 16%
- Stearic acid 14 – 19%
- Arachidic acid 1 – 3%
Please note that aromatherapy is one of the many complementary therapies available and should not replace any prescribed medications or medical advice. Always seek advice from your doctor if you have any medical concerns.
Safety and Shelf LifeÂ
Non – irritant
The thick consistency of Neem oil does require warming in cold temperatures to bring it back to a liquid form.
Use as a 10% dilution to a carrier oil.
Shelf Life: 12 – 24Â months
