This neem oil is cold pressed from the seeds and fruits of the neem tree (Melia Azadirachta). The oil has been used for centuries in Ayurveda (a traditional Indian medicine) to treat skin, hair, nails and teeth.
Neem oil contains high levels of antioxidants that can help slow down the skin's aging process and protect it from the harmful effects of solar radiation and air pollution.
The oil also has an antibacterial effect. This is one of the reasons why the oil is often used for oil pulling . In certain parts of India, the twigs of the neem tree are used to chew to keep the teeth healthy.
Application
Neem oil is a very versatile oil that can be used for:
- For oil pulling: This is a traditional Ayurvedic treatment where you rinse your teeth with oil for 10-20 minutes to detoxify your teeth and gums. You take some neem oil in your mouth and rinse it thoroughly through your mouth. Then you spit it out. Because neem oil has a strong spicy taste, it is often mixed with another oil such as coconut oil and possibly also with a few drops of peppermint essential oil.
- In your face / eye serum: Mix 5ml of neem oil with 125ml of argan oil and optionally a few drops of peppermint oil. Apply a small amount to your face and around the eyes.
- As hair mask: Massage some neem oil into your hair and let it soak for 20-30 minutes. Then wash out with a natural shampoo.