Many gardeners in the US and elsewhere utilise neem oil as an alternative to non-organic pesticides and fungicides in their gardens. All participants experienced some reduction in skin toxicity following treatment with the gel. However, it is important to note that this study did not include a placebo control. Fighting skin infections Outside of gardening, neem oil also has a wide range of cosmetic and herbal applications, especially within those areas where it naturally grows – and the trees also have numerous other uses. 7 Taggar, M. (2023). Neem Oil: 10 Benefits for Hair & Skin. Holland & Barrett. https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/natural-beauty/skincare/neem-oil-benefits/ Why Avoid Using Neem Oil In The Garden? Contraceptives:According to a study, tests performed on rats, monkeys, and humans revealed that neem oil highly effective as a contraceptive. When used intra-vaginally before sexual intercourse, it was 100% effective in preventing pregnancy in test subjects. Studies alsosuggest that its use does not have any side effects. [20] In a soil drench, the half-life of neem oil extends from 3 days up to 22 days. That’s why it’s best to wait three weeks for a reapplied soil soak. The times that pollinators are usually out working their way through your garden are generally after sunrise and before sunset. By spraying before or after those times, you’re using an effective insecticide that rids plants of pests and doesn’t harm pollinators. Butterflies, ladybugs, and lacewings don’t feed on plant matter, so as long as the misting of neem oil you’ve applied to your plants has evaporated, they’re in the clear. Frequently Asked Questions Azadirachta indica is a gorgeous tree in its own right. Source: lalithamba

Neem oil derives from the “Azadirachta indica” plant, native to India. The fruit and the seeds of the neem plant receive processing into oil. Due to the popularity of this oil, it grows in tropical climates and cultivars worldwide. Unfortunately, it is indiscriminate and can also kill or harm insects that we need and want in our gardens.Environmental Impact: Neem oil is biodegradable and breaks down naturally without harming the environment. It is considered an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. Applying another fatty acid may seem contradictory, but neem oil is naturally cleansing and soothing and helps to control the excess malassezia growth. Some drugs, including cancer medication, painkillers, and antipsychotics, may contribute to oxidative stress, leading to tissue damage in your liver and kidneys ( 16). Some people can be allergic to neem oil. Users should perform a patch test before using neem oil for the first time. Place some on a small area of skin (usually on your arm). If there is no adverse reaction - like swelling, itching, or redness - after 24 hours, it should be safe to use on other areas of the body. Neem Oil is currently under study for use against prostate cancer and other cancers. Its extracts are rich in beneficial limonin, azadirachtin, kaempferol, vitamin C, and beta-carotene.

The original studies on the effects on neem oil in pests were on locusts. However, since these trials, the oil shows promise I blanket protection for your garden from over 200 varieties of pests, including the following troublemakers in your yard. Kaushik, N., & Vir, S. (2000). Variations in fatty acid composition of neem seeds collected from the Rajasthan state of India [Abstract]. From arthritis and headaches to acid reflux disease and psoriasis, the powerful anti-inflammatory compounds found in neem oil make this an effective remedy for a number of common conditions, including those thataffect the scalp. [5] Detoxifies the Body Neem oil comes in a variety of different colors, including red, yellow, and brown. Neem does not have an attractive smell; its pungent fragrance contains hits of garlic and peanuts. If you have a sensitive sense of smell, then the chances are the aroma of this oil will turn your stomach. Azadirachtin – Neem Oil’s Secret Ingredient Although neem products are derived from natural sources, they’re not inherently safe for human use. Therefore, it’s important to take precautions when using neem products.Not only will this promote plumper, brighter skin, but it can help protect against free radicals: collagen-destroying molecules which contribute to uneven skin tone, texture, and fine lines and wrinkles.

When the flies and other nasties are really bad, mix a solution of one part Neem Oil to 50 parts warmish water and sponge (or spray) over your horse.A 2016 study analyzing the genotoxicity of neem oil on oral cancer observed that this oil could effectively degrade the DNA of such cell lines. Thus, it shows the potential to be integrated into anticancer therapy. [14] Make small batches of neem spray the same day you intend to use it, or your mixture will become gloppy over time. Lightly dab the neem oil onto the area using a cotton swab or cotton ball, and allow it to soak in for up to 20 minutes. Pure neem oil is incredibly potent. To treat acne, fungal infections, warts, or moles, use undiluted neem oil to spot treat affected areas. Neem oil is full of antioxidants, which disarm the free radicals and help to maintain a more stable composition of atoms.

One of the most reliable organic pesticides out there is neem oil. Neem oil products are often the first we mention in the pest control portions of past Epic Gardening pieces. That’s because neem oil works! When it comes to a natural pesticide, neem is something you want to have at hand. Isman, Murray B (2006). "Botanical Insecticides, Deterrents, and Repellents in Modern Agriculture and an Increasingly Regulated World". Annual Review of Entomology. 51: 45–66. doi: 10.1146/annurev.ento.51.110104.151146. PMID 16332203. Neem oil pesticides are not only effective, but they’re also generally recognized to be non-toxic to only slightly toxic by the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Pesticide Information Center. It does not harm birds, mammals, bees, and plants. You can use neem oil to control insects like Japanese beetles, other beetle larvae, leafhoppers, spider mites, thrips, and aphids. As you spray to kill pests, you’ll also shield the entire plant from the harmful effects of some diseases.

Benefits of Neem Oil

Neem oil is a secret saviour for our hair as well as our faces. Blend organic neem oil with sweet almond oil and massage gently into the hair and scalp. Leave to work its magic for half an hour and rinse off to enjoy healthy-looking hair and a flake-free scalp. Rich in antioxidants, neem oil is also thought to help stop hair from thinning so it’s a great oil to start using after a certain age…just in case. AlzohairyM. (2016). Therapeutics role of Azadirachta indica (neem) and their activeconstituents in diseases prevention and treatment. DOI: Neem may have several other health benefits, though results are mixed, and further studies in people are necessary. Antimalarial effects Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.