Neem Oil
Neem, ‘The Wonder Tree’
Azadirachta Indica, or the Neem tree, has been described as both ‘the wonder tree’ and ‘the village pharmacy’. It has powerful insecticidal, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties and has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani treatments.
Neem has been found to contain triglycerides, triterpenoid compounds, steroids, fatty acids and is high in Oleic acid (Omega 9). Neem is used widely all over the world in agriculture to protect plant crops and livestock from insects and diseases. Studies have shown that Neem affects over two hundred species of insects, plus mites, nematodes, fungi, bacteria, viruses and many other plant diseases.
How does Neem work for me?
Basically Neem is really good at killing bugs, and not just the tiny microscopic bugs like bacteria and viruses, Neem hits the larger ones too like mozzies and lice. Bugs and diseases that eat our scrummy veggies in the garden before we can get to them ourselves, beware of Neem! Neem has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for donkeys years. One Neem tree in the centre of the village provided everyone with protection from a startlingly wide array of problems. In warm climes, its insecticidal properties would go a long way in helping reduce populations of malaria carrying mosquitos. Use Neem in summer for this same purpose to prevent itchy bites, or the transmission of Ross River virus.
Just a few drops of Neem oil in a carrier oil can help treat or prevent a variety of skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and fungal skin diseases. Put through your hair it can help get rid of and prevent head lice. Neem can also act as an anti-inflammatory. Traditionally it has even been used to treat more serious conditions such as fever, tuberculosis, malaria and leprosy.
How do I get Neem?
Neem oil is found in various preparations in health food stores. Probably the most common form you can buy is a soap made with Neem oil, which is great for using in the shower to prevent nasties from attacking your skin, and if they already have, it can nip them in the bud early if you regularly wash with it. Otherwise you can find Neem oil itself, or in an already blended oil. Neem oil is very strong and you really only need a few drops in some carrier oil, to put through hair or massage on the skin. Good carrier oils are Jojoba, Almond or Olive oil.
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