Neem Oil

What is it?

Neem oil is a natural oil extracted from the seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), which is native to the Indian subcontinent. This oil has been used for centuries in traditional Indian medicine for its diverse healing properties.

How does it work for medicinal purposes?

Neem oil contains several active compounds with medicinal properties, including azadirachtin, which is considered its most active component. These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory, antipyretic (fever-reducing), antihistamine, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. They work by disrupting the life cycle of bacteria and fungi, inhibiting the growth of certain pathogens, and modulating the immune response to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

What are the active ingredients that are important for its medicinal properties?

• Azadirachtin
• Nimbin
• Nimbidin
• Salannin
• Gedunin

These compounds contribute to neem oil's antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

What forms does it come in?

Neem oil can be found in several forms, including:

• Pure oil
• Emulsified concentrates
• Soap
• Shampoo
• Creams and lotions
• Capsules for oral consumption

What if I have an imbalance or deficiency?

There is no known condition caused by a neem oil deficiency, as it is not an essential nutrient for the human body. An "imbalance" typically refers to an issue with its application or usage, not a bodily deficiency.

When was it first used for medicinal purposes?

Neem has been used for medicinal purposes for over 2,000 years, with its uses documented in ancient Indian texts like the Charaka Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita, dating back to the first millennium BCE.

What does Neem Oil help with?

Neem oil is pressed from the seeds of the neem tree. It has long been used in Ayurvedic care for the skin, scalp and mouth. Most uses put it on the body surface, not by mouth.

The overall grade on file is C. The strongest human work is on neem mouth rinses for plaque and gum disease. For the skin uses, most of what we hold is lab work and long tradition.

• Plaque, gum disease and sore gums
  Good evidence — clinical studies of neem mouthwash and toothpaste in people. In clinical studies, neem mouthwash and toothpaste lowered the germs linked to plaque, gingivitis and gum disease. Results were close to those of some standard antiseptic rinses. Our file does not record the trial sizes or the doses used.
  Evidence grade B · Traditional tier T3
• Head lice
  Early evidence — early, limited human studies plus lab work on the compound azadirachtin. Neem shampoos and scalp treatments are a popular non-chemical choice for lice. In lab work, azadirachtin, a neem compound, disrupted the growth and breeding of lice. Human evidence is emerging but still thin next to standard lice products.
  Evidence grade C · Traditional tier T3
• Acne and breakouts
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — lab work on bacteria; no human acne trial on file. In lab tests, neem compounds acted against Cutibacterium acnes, the germ most tied to pimples and cysts. Lab work also points to anti-inflammatory effects that may settle redness and swelling. No human acne trial is on file here.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Red, irritated or reactive skin
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — lab studies of the neem compound nimbidin; no human trial on file. Nimbidin is one of neem oil's main active compounds. It is well documented as an anti-inflammatory in lab studies. People dab diluted neem oil on contact dermatitis, bug bites and touchy skin, but we hold no human trial.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Eczema and dry, itchy skin
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — lab work plus traditional use; no human eczema trial on file. Neem oil is a popular home option for eczema. Lab work points to anti-inflammatory compounds and fatty acids that may support the skin barrier. We hold no human eczema trial, and it is used alongside standard care, not in place of it.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Dandruff and a flaky, itchy scalp
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — lab antifungal work plus long use in shampoos; no human scalp trial on file. Dandruff is often driven by too much Malassezia, a scalp fungus. In lab tests, neem's antifungal compounds held this fungus back. Its fatty acids also soften dry skin, but no human dandruff trial is on file.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Ringworm, athlete's foot and other skin fungus
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — lab antifungal activity of gedunin and related compounds; no human trial on file. Gedunin and other neem compounds showed real antifungal activity in lab tests. People dilute neem oil and rub it on for tinea, also called ringworm, and athlete's foot. No human trial is on file, and stronger infections usually need prescription antifungals.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Psoriasis flare-ups
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — lab anti-inflammatory work plus use as an add-on; no human psoriasis trial on file. In psoriasis, the immune system drives a rush of new skin cells. Neem oil is used on top of medical care to ease itching and redness. We hold no human psoriasis trial for it.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3
• Minor cuts, scrapes and small skin infections
  Long traditional use · not yet tested in trials — lab work on bacteria and fungi plus first-aid tradition; no human wound trial on file. In lab tests, neem oil acted against a range of bacteria and fungi. Tradition uses it as a first-aid dab on small cuts and scrapes, to hold germ growth down while skin mends. No human wound trial is on file.
  Evidence grade insufficient · Traditional tier T3

What Neem Oil has not been shown to do

• It has not been shown in human trials to clear acne; the acne work on file is lab work on bacteria.
• It has not been shown to replace standard eczema care, and no human eczema trial is on file.
• It has not been shown to replace prescription antifungal medicine, which more severe fungal infections usually need.
• It has not been shown to work on its own for moderate or severe psoriasis; it is used as an add-on to medical care.
• It has not been shown to match conventional lice treatments, since the human evidence is still limited.

How to read this:

The grades describe how much human evidence we hold, not how strong the remedy is. A means steady trials in people. B means at least one good trial in people. C means small, mixed or early human studies. D means weak or conflicting human evidence. Insufficient means lab work, animal work or tradition only. This page sums up what studies found. It is not medical advice, and it is not a plan of care.

Which conditions and symptoms does it help prevent?

Preventative uses of neem oil, based on its properties, may include:

• Preventing dental plaque
• Acting as a mosquito repellent

Which foods are rich in it?

Neem oil is not found in foods. It is extracted from the seeds of the neem tree and is not considered a dietary item.

What are possible side effects?

Possible side effects, particularly with improper use, include:

• Skin irritation
• Allergic reactions
• Toxicity when ingested in large amounts

What’s the recommended daily dose?

There is no standardized recommended dose for neem oil due to the variability in its use and form. Dosage would depend on the specific product and the condition being treated.

How many days does it take to work?

The effectiveness and the time it takes to work can vary widely based on the condition being treated and the form of neem oil used.

What time of day is best to take it?

This depends on the form of neem oil and the condition being treated.

Is it best to take it with or without food?

Since neem oil is typically not consumed orally in its pure form, this question is more relevant to products containing neem oil or neem supplements. The best practice would depend on the specific product instructions.