Neem has been used for its medicinal properties since 2000 BC to 4000 BC, according to the website Mountain Rose Herbs. The herb was referred to as "the curer of all ailments" by people in India, where the herb originated. Today, neem has been shown to have antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiseptic and antiparasitic properties, which is why it's still used today in many cosmetic and common household items. However, the Food and Drug Administration has not approved neem oil for any specific use. Neem oil is very potent, and you should speak with your doctor or another health care professional before taking it internally.
Medicinal
In the past, according to Mountain Rose Herbs, neem oil has been used to treat ailments such as headaches, hair loss, ringworm, snake bites and flu, among many others. The website gives tips on how to use neem oil to treat athlete's foot, dandruff, head lice and acne. Infinity Foundation cites neem oil as effective in treating malaria, ulcers and some fungi. The website also cites its antibacterial properties, stating that it's effective in fighting microorganisms such as tuberculosis, pneumonia and streptococcus and against the measles virus.
Pesticide/Insect Repellant
Mountain Rose Herbs recommends mixing neem oil with Castille Soap and water, then spraying the mixture on bug-infested plants. The site claims that the oil suffocates soft-bodied insects and works to repel other insects. The website Organ Neem says the oil is most effective against pests such as white flies, aphids, scales, mealy bugs, spider mites, locusts and Japanese beatles, among others. Neem is an all-natural way to control bugs that has been shown to be non-toxic to mammals, birds, bees and earthworms, according to Organ Neem.
Skin Care Ingredient
According to Organ Neem, neem oil contains vitamin E and other essential amino acids that make it a wonderful skin care ingredient. It's used in creams and lotions and has also been used to treat eczema, psoriasis and skin allergies. It's added to some shampoos in order to prevent dandruff and itchy scalp, and is added to some pet shampoos as a way to kill fleas and ticks.
Contraceptive
According to Organ Neem, the people of India have been studying neem's contraceptive properties for years. The website Infinity Foundation states that applying neem oil inside the vagina prior to sexual activity "can prevent pregnancy." However, there is no conclusive scientific evidence this is true. .
Household Items
According to Mountain Rose Herbs, neem oil is used in common household items such as soap, toothpaste and hair/skin care products. The website recommends adding neem oil to household hand soap to increase its antibacterial strength.
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