Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, nimtree or Indian lilac, is a tree renowned in the skin care world for its antimicrobial properties. Having deep roots in the Ayurvedic tradition, this plant is native to the Indian subcontinent. It typically grows in tropical and semi-tropical climates and produces fruit and seeds that offer neem oil. Clear some room in your garden and on your shelf for this Ayurveda superstar for clean, organic antibacterial skin care!
Deep Roots
Neem has been cherished by the Ayurvedic tradition for over 2,000 years. One of the most versatile plants in the Indian tradition, neem is a common medicinal plant in Ayurveda and Indian medicine. Every part of the tree is of value to an Ayurvedic practitioner, from the stems to the leaves. Believed to have positive effects on the GI tract, respiratory system, and circulatory, neem oil is used in Ayurveda to boost immunity and support natural cleansing of the body’s various channels.
Neem leaf – treats skin ailments such as dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis
Neem bark – calms excess pitta with its bitter taste
Neem fruit and seeds – used to make neem oil
Neem twig – used as a breath freshener and for oral health
Neem oil – helps treat topical skin ailments and other skin issues
Traditionally, Ayurvedic neem oil is prepared by boiling neem leaves with a base oil and water. This preparation yields a safe concentration of neem that can be used for medicinal purposes. Some preparations use sesame oil, for example, another popular and versatile Ayurvedic oil.
Ayurvedic benefits of neem oil include:
• cooling and soothing excess pitta
• healthy skin rejuvenation
• boosts immunity
Neem is known in traditional Sanskrit as “Arishtha,” or “reliever of sickness.” It balances high pitta as well as high Kapha. Be careful when incorporating neem product with high Vatta clients, as neem oil can aggravate this Dosha. Neem can be applied to the hair and scalp, as well as the palms of the hands and soles of the feet for best absorption and cleansing.
Neem Today
Much scientific research has been conducted on this amazing plant. It may not come as a surprise to those with an Ayurvedic background, but scientists have been able to identify over 100 compounds as part of the neem tree. Many of these chemical compounds are of therapeutic concentrations. Such therapies include treatment of joint and the immune system and support of healthy skin.
Neem is mainly recognized in modern skin care for its antibacterial properties. The leaves of this Indian tree are shown to be antifungal and have antiviral properties. One study showed that extracts of need showed antibacterial against several strains of bacteria, including S. mutans, E. faecalis, and S. aureus. Need stick proved to have the highest antimicrobial abilities. Its bacteria-killing properties make it popular in natural oral hygiene products.
When it comes to treating the skin natural, neem oil serves as a great tool when dealing with skin conditions such as acne, pigmentation, eczema, and rashes. Neem leaves can be used as a face pack to treat many of these conditions. Neem is also high in vitamin E, making sure it doesn’t over dry the skin.
For acne relief, neem leaves steeped in water can be used as a facial tonic to reduce surface oil and bacteria. This neem toner helps to clear acne breakouts, which can lead to pigmentation if left untreated.
Neem for Body Aches
Neem has been used in Ayurveda for centuries to treat musculoskeletal issues such as tight joints, arthritic joints, and body aches. Neem contains anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce swellings and pain in joints. A massage with neem oil is a common practice in more traditional treatments of arthritis. Drinking neem leaf tea is also common practice for Ayurvedic treatments.
Try adding neem oil to your massage lotions and creams for an anti-inflammatory component when working on clients with swollen joints, muscle soreness or tired feet.
Growing Neem
The best way to acquire neem oil and neem leaves is to grow a neem tree. Many local nurseries and supermarkets have neem plants for sale. Neem tablets, supplements, and oral care products can be found at your local Ayurvedic treatment center. Keep in mind that there is no specific dosing recommendation for neem, so talk to a healthcare provider before ingesting or recommending ingested neem to clients.
Contraindications
As with all natural and organic substances, neem is not regulated by the FDA. Educate yourself on the potency of this natural ingredient. Take care in using neem oil with clients of different Dosha combinations. Neem oil or other derivatives of the neem tree should not be used on clients who are pregnant or are expecting to become pregnant. Neem should not be ingested by those on blood sugar medication, those with autoimmune disease, or by women who are breastfeeding. Neem oil should also be avoided by children, as its therapeutic nature has not been studied in children.
