Neem oil for hair Neem oil is extracted from the seed grains of the neem tree, which is native to India and is an important part of that country’s cultural and medicinal practices. It is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine and has an impressive array of active ingredients, including azadirachtin, picrin, Nimbin, and sialin.
In addition to other antioxidants and nutrients, this oil is highly praised for its effects on skin and hair, but it is also used in diluted levels for internal purposes.
Neem oil benefits for hair
The main benefits of neem oil for hair include its ability to do the following:
- Prevent dandruff
- Eliminate lice
- Promote a healthy scalp
- Stop hair loss
- Eliminate split ends
- Improves hair texture
- Stimulate hair growth
- Decrease the graying of your hair
Dandruff
Dandruff in hair is the result of dry scalp and sometimes due to a natural fungus, Malassezia. Neem oil due to the presence of azadirachtin has antifungal properties and helps prevent dandruff of the hair. The anti-inflammatory properties of this oil also help eliminate many of the conditions that can cause dandruff, including dry skin on the scalp.
Some older research suggests (a Source) that can help suppress inflammation, which may make it useful in treating dermatitis, psoriasis, or other scalp irritation.
Healthy scalpÂ
This oil not only helps exfoliate the scalp and remove dirt and grime but also stimulates circulation in the scalp, which can improve the overall health and oxygenation of those cells.
Optimal pH Levels
Regular use of neem oil not only helps eliminate dandruff, but it also helps maintain optimal pH levels and a healthy scalp. Therefore, it is used in a wide range of shampoos and hair oils.
Curly Hair
When you mix this oil into your shampoo and conditioner, it can help to establish the volume of your hair and eliminate split ends, making your locks easier to manipulate and style.
Hair Texture
It’s easier to say goodbye to frizzy hair with neem oil on your side. Neem is used in various hair conditioners to improve texture and treat damaged hair. Apply neem oil to improve hair quality and smooth texture.
Neem oil for lice
The antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties of this oil make it an excellent and quick remedy for lice that can infect the scalp and hair. Studies have shown the effect of neem oil in treating head lice. When neem shampoo was compared to a permethrin-based product to control which treats lice best, the former won the battle. Several companies use neem as a key ingredient in their shampoos due to this particular property.
Neem Oil Hair Growth
The old problem of hair loss can be cured naturally with neem oil. Strengthens hair follicles and accelerates hair growth. It is also known to combat hair thinning and hair damage problems.
Studies have found that regular application of neem oil to hair can slow down the graying and graying process, keeping you looking and feeling younger, regardless of your age.
How to use neem oil for hair
There are many ways to use neem oil for hair, including as a mask, conditioner, and oil treatment, among others.
Hair Strengthening: By mixing the oil into your shampoo or conditioner (20-25 drops per bottle), you can greatly improve your ability to cleanse the scalp and strengthen hair follicles.
Dandruff: As a treatment for dandruff, you can rub this oil directly on your scalp and let it sit for 30-60 minutes; This can eliminate inflammation and infections that can cause dry scalp skin.
See Also: Homemade Remedies For Dry Hair
Hair Mask – When you use neem oil in a hair mask, paste, or in an oil treatment, you will want a higher concentration of the oil and may not require a carrier oil.
Note: Moderation is key in all of these applications, or you risk scalp inflammation.
Tips for using neem oil for hair
Before applying neem oil to your hair, be sure to consider the following guidelines:
- Take 1 tablespoon of neem oil and add oils like 2-3 tablespoons of jojoba oil and 5 drops of lavender oil. Mix them well.
- Leave the oil in place for 1-2 hours.
- Apply this mixture to your hair and scalp. Massage your scalp for 10 minutes.
- Cover your hair with a hot towel for 30 minutes.
- Wash as usual Use in conjunction with mild shampoos and conditioners.
Neem Oil for Hair: Side Effects
There are some potential side effects of using neem oil on hair, such as acne, warts, and dry scalp. These side effects are mainly observed. Supplements aren’t suitable for children under the age of 12 or people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.