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Neem oil has widespread use in Indian subcontinent due to its many bioactive properties. Azadirachtin, an active ingredient, is implicated in causing the effects seen in neem oil poisoning. Neem oil poisoning is rare in adults.
- Overview
- What is neem?
- Potential health benefits of neem
- Neem’s risks and potential side effects
- How to find neem products and use them safely
- The bottom line
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Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a tree native to the Indian subcontinent (1).
Various parts of this tree have long been utilized in traditional Asian medicine. Historically, it has been used to treat pain, fever, and infection, white its twigs have been used to clean teeth (2, 3).
Still, you may be curious to know whether any of these claims are merited.
This article takes a deep dive into the science behind neem extract to explain its uses, potential benefits, and any risks.
Sometimes called “the village pharmacy,” neem is a unique medicinal plant in that all of its parts — including its leaves, flowers, seeds, fruit, roots, and bark — can be used (4, 5).
Centuries-old manuscripts reveal some of the historical applications of this tree. Its flowers were used to treat bile duct disorders, its leaves to treat ulcers, and its bark to treat brain illnesses (6).
Over 140 diverse active compounds have been isolated from various parts of the plant. These active compounds give neem its antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and wound-healing properties (4, 7, 8).
Although the mechanisms by which neem works aren’t entirely clear, research into this plant is ongoing (5, 6, 8).
Summary
Neem packs over 140 active compounds that may give it numerous antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It has long served as a treatment for ulcers, gastrointestinal troubles, and brain ailments.
May promote hair health
Neem seed extract contains azadirachtin, an active compound that may fight parasites that affect hair and skin, such as lice. Azadirachtin works by disrupting parasite growth and interfering with reproduction and other cellular processes (9). In a study that tested the efficacy of a neem-based shampoo on head lice in children, leaving shampoo in the hair for 10 minutes killed the lice while being gentle on the skin (10, 11). Neem extract and nimbidin, a compound found in neem oil, may also treat dandruff due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Dandruff and scalp irritation may result from fungal buildup on the scalp (8, 12).
May boost dental and oral health
Chewing neem bark to promote oral hygiene is a common practice in India (13). Neem’s antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties may promote oral health. Although more research is needed, studies indicate that neem may relieve pain and help treat gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth decay (3). Furthermore, test-tube studies suggest that neem may minimize bacteria’s ability to colonize the surface of your teeth, thus reducing plaque formation (14). Plus, in a 21-day study including 45 people with gingivitis, neem mouthwash was found to be as effective as chlorhexidine mouthwash — a heavy duty prescription mouthwash — at reducing gum bleeding and plaque (15).
May aid liver and kidney health
Neem’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help fight oxidative stress, which may in turn promote liver and kidney health. Oxidative stress is caused by a buildup of unstable molecules called free radicals. Although your body naturally produces free radicals as a byproduct of metabolism, external sources increase their presence. Some drugs, including cancer medication, painkillers, and antipsychotics, may contribute to oxidative stress, leading to tissue damage in your liver and kidneys (16). Interestingly, one study on rats found that neem leaf extract reduced liver damage induced by high-dose acetaminophen (17). Another rat study showed similar effects, suggesting that neem extract improved kidney tissue damage caused by chemotherapy medication (18). However, studies in humans are needed.
Although neem products are derived from natural sources, they’re not inherently safe for human use. Therefore, it’s important to take precautions when using neem products.
Neem seed extracts are comprised of various fatty acids and about 2% bitters, which are considered toxic. Levels of these bitters differ between products and may be influenced by extraction and storage methods (29).
Neem is commonly sold in oil, extract, powder, and supplement forms, as well as added to hair, skin, and oral care products. You can usually find these products at health and beauty outlets.
Neem oil can be applied to the skin or mixed with shampoo or creams. It’s considered safe for oral intake when diluted with alcohol or taken in tablet or powder form.
However, regulation of neem is limited, so many products aren’t tested for safety or purity.
While its topical application is mostly regarded as safe, extraction techniques and specific uses may affect its overall toxicity (5).
Read the label and follow the directions listed, as these vary from product to product.
It’s important to note that no standard dosage exists, and information on its effectiveness is unknown. To minimize health risks, avoid self-medicating and consult a healthcare professional before using any neem product.
Neem is a unique plant in that all its parts — its leaves, flowers, seeds, fruit, root, and bark — exhibit medicinal properties.
Although scientific research on this supplement is still in its early stages, evidence suggests that it may treat dandruff, lice, gingivitis, and dental plaque, as well as promote wound healing.
Neem extract is a medicinal plant with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It may benefit hair, skin, teeth, liver, kidneys, and more, but it may also have some risks and side effects.
Oct 15, 2024 · Neem is a natural herb with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It can help with dandruff, lice, and dental health, but it may also cause allergic reactions or sensitivity.
Nov 25, 2023 · Neem oil is a natural remedy with various benefits, but it can also cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, respiratory issues, and liver damage if used incorrectly. Learn how to safely dilute, apply, and store neem oil for different purposes, and when to consult a healthcare professional or veterinarian.
Dec 3, 2019 · warts. The following are some benefits of neem oil and the evidence behind these claims. First, however, it is important to note that most of the studies involved cell lines or animals. Those...
The ingestion of neem oil is potentially toxic and can cause metabolic acidosis, seizures, kidney failure, encephalopathy and severe brain ischemia in infants and young children. [2] [4] [5] Neem oil should not be consumed alone without any other solutions, particularly by pregnant women, women trying to conceive or children. [2]
Learn about neem oil, a natural pesticide derived from neem tree seeds. Find out how it works, how it can affect humans and the environment, and what are the safety precautions.
