The neem is a large evergreen tree native to southeast Asia and is part of the mahogany family. Neem oil is pressed from seeds of these trees. Its primary use is as a non-toxic insecticide but it also has a place in Ayurvedic and other alternative medicine for certain health issues.
Plant Pesticide and Fungicide
Neem oil is a broad spectrum insecticide and miticide, as explained by Southern Agricultural Insecticides. It works by killing some pests and repelling others. Neem oil also controls numerous fungal diseases such as black spot, mildew, rust and scab. It does not kill beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies unless you apply neem oil when those insects are on the plants.
Skin Pesticide and Fungicide
Lotions and sprays are available that include neem oil as an insect repellent for the skin. Neem oil also can be used to eliminate head lice, as noted by eMedTV. Because neem oil is a natural anti-fungal substance, people can use it for athlete's foot, jock itch and ringworm, according to AllAyurveda.com. Neem oil does not irritate skin and does not have any other skin contraindications.
Skin Disorders
Neem is useful as an antiseptic substance and for treating skin disorders, as explained by AllAyurveda.com. It can be applied to treat burns, boils and skin ulcers. Neem oil has a beneficial effect on skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, as it moisturizes skin and helps heal sores, scaling, itching and irritation. Neem oil can also relieve hives, scabies, and other skin rashes. The substance is included in certain toothpastes as a soothing ingredient for irritated gums. Neem oil has not been shown to have skin contraindications for any of these disorders.
Oral Use
Neem oil can be consumed as a tea, herbal extract or supplement. It is claimed to heal gastrointestinal ulcers and to be effective as an antioxidant source and immune system booster. However, people have reported serious side effects in children after oral consumption of neem, according to eMedTV. Because neem may enhance the immune system, people with autoimmune diseases may not be able to safely take this substance. It also may lower blood sugar, a concern for diabetics taking medicine for their condition. For other people, consuming neem oil is safe if taken in limited doses over a short time frame.
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