Extracted from the seed of the neem tree, or Azadirachta indica, neem oil is a semi-solid, aromatic compound used to treat medical conditions and to repel insects. Available in health food stores or online, a treatment with neem oil may be internal or external, although the FDA does not oversee the production and sale of neem oil. There is no guarantee of purity or effectiveness. Consult your doctor before using neem oil to treat any medical condition.
History
The neem tree is native to Sri Lanka and India where it's been a valued addition to Ayurvedic medicine for 2,000 years, according to the Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine. Historical uses for neem oil include the treatment of malaria and skin disorders, such as acne and eczema.
Properties
Although the entire neem tree contains medicinal properties, only the seed is used in the production of neem oil. Drugs.com reports that the oil is bitter to the taste and smells like garlic. Neem oil contains bitter principles, triterpenes, beta-sitosterol, and small amounts of aflatoxin. Azadirachtin is the constituent that gives neem oil its insecticidal benefits.
Health Benefits
Neem oil may be helpful in controlling blood sugar levels, according to the Gale Encyclopedia. Taken internally, neem oil is potentially beneficial in treating intestinal parasites and viral infections, including the common cold and the flu. External application of products containing neem oil may ease the symptoms of athlete's foot, dermatitis, ringworm, acne and other skin disorders. Clinical studies confirming these health benefits are lacking.
Insect Control
Agricultural neem oil treatment offers pesticide control without the use of harmful chemicals, making it valuable for organic farming operations. According to research from the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station, a branch of Cornell University, neem oil formulations effectively destroy unwanted insects on crops. Neem's ability to spare honeybees makes it attractive to producers who depend upon bees for pollination.
Considerations
The Gale Encyclopedia reports that side effects from neem oil in Ayurveda treatments are rare, but serious, and they are more common in infants and children. Do not use neem oil in anyone younger than 18, and do not take neem oil if you are pregnant or nursing. Neem may cause death in infants and may result in miscarriage. Overdose of neem may damage kidney function. Use neem oil only under the supervision of a medical professional.
References
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
- Drugs.com: Neem
- New York State Agricultural Experiment Station: Neem
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