Neem is regarded as sacred by Indians because it ensures good health and provides protection against diseases. It is regarded as local medicine as well. Ayurveda uses neem oil for many of its medicinal products. People are increasingly aware of key neem oil benefits as well. Neem provides resistance to sickness and boosts inner strength. There has been a tradition of making skin and hair care products out of neem oil, neem bark and its leaves too. It works on softening the dried-up skin, repairing damage to chapped and cracked lips and heels, removing bacteria and germs, eliminating lice from hair and preventing greying and balding hair.
The botanical name of neem is Azadirachta Indica. The tree originated in India and it proliferates in warm climates. The tree can survive in adverse conditions such as draught and hot climates. It can live for as long as 200 to 300 years too. The tree has long been used to make herbal beauty products and insecticides. It is still regarded as a first-aid treatment for skin ailments. The tree’s seeds are used to make carrier oils. Its bark, leaves, roots and flowers are also used to make medicines. These parts of the tree are often prescribed by some physicians to be consumed with tea for overall wellbeing.
The chemical composition of Neem Oil consists of Oleic Acid, Stearic Acid, Linolenic Acid and Vitamin C. It also has carotenoid which is good for the eyes.
Oleic Acid helps in maintaining the softness and shine of skin and hair. It helps in the growth of long hair with strong roots. It also helps fight dandruff and dry scalp issues along with addressing ageing. It also has antioxidant properties while allaying joint pain and redness.
Stearic Acid is an organic cleaner. It helps in removing dirt and sweat from the body. It acts as an emulsifying agent that binds oil and water. It protects hair and skin against damage while also helping in softening skin.
Palmitic Acid works as an ointment. It softens hair and skin without making them greasy.
Linolenic Acid works for the healing of wounds. It is used for making neem soap. It alleviates pain due to its analgesic properties. It is a constituent of many balms. It fights against acne and protects skin against the future outbreak of acne.
Alpha-Linolenic acid works against inflammation and joint pain. It prevents blood clotting on the skin.
Vitamin E has antioxidant properties. It delays the onset of ageing in people and that makes it all the more popular. It repairs damaged tissues while protecting the skin against toxins in the environment.
Carotenoids too have antioxidant properties that act against free radicals. They protect you against carcinogenic substances. They also help in checking cellular damage.
Hence, used locally, neem oil relieves itchy, burning and red skin. It protects your skin against harmful UV rays as well. There are thus innumerable neem oil benefits that you should be aware about.