Botanically known as Azadirachta Indica, neem is a type of tree that usually grows in tropical regions like India. For centuries, it has been used as a medicinal herb in India. Its leaves, fruits, and extracts have chemicals that can help prevent pregnancy, lower blood sugar, kill bacteria, prevent plaque formation, and heal ulcers in the digestive system. Here have a close and brief look at all health and skin benefits of neem extracts (leaves and fruits):

1. Boost oral and dental health 

 As per a study of PubMed Central, chewing bark for oral hygiene is a very common practice in India. Due to the presence of anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, immune-boosting, and antioxidant properties, neem is highly beneficial for oral health. As per a study of the National Library of Medicine, neem prevents tooth decay and helps treat periodontitis and gingivitis. Another study states that consuming neem leaves or powder minimise the bacteria growth on the tooth surface. 

2. Promote hair health 

The extract of neem seeds has a compound, azadirachtin, which fights against parasites (such as lice) affecting skin and hair health. This compound interrupts the development of parasites and their reproduction. As per a few studies of PubMed Central, neem-based shampoo kills head lice and treats dandruff. 

3. Aid kidney and liver health 

Neem has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help you fight against oxidative stress. And as a result, you can experience an improvement in your kidney and liver health. Unstable molecule (free radicals) development causes oxidative stress. Some drugs like painkillers, cancer medication, and antipsychotics also cause oxidative stress that could lead you to have tissue damage in your kidneys and liver. 

According to a study of the National Library of Medicine done on rats, neem leaf extract is highly beneficial in lowering liver damage. Another study has shown the similar effect of neem extract effects on kidney health.   

4. Enhance skin health  

The oil extracted from neem seeds has fatty acids like stearic, oleic, palmitic, and linoleic acids. These fatty acids have antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that promote skin health. Ayurvedic medicine, a traditional Indian healing system, uses nee extracts to treat eczema and psoriasis. As per a study of ScienceDirect, neem helps enhance skin elasticity, treat acne, and lower blemishes.  

5. Help get rid of dandruff 

Dandruff is harmless. However, it ruins the charm of your hair and can be problematic for you. It occurs due to the flaking of a dry scalp or shedding of dead cells from your scalp. By applying neem powder with water on your head/scalp, you can get rid of dandruff. 

6. Help fight against ringworm 

Ringworm is a common skin problem. It is a fungal infection and is noticed as red, ring shaped scaly patches that are irritating and itchy sometimes. Neem powder has strong antifungal properties. And so, it helps treat ringworm.   

7. Sinusitis 

Sinusitis is a type of inflammation of the sinus. It is both acute and chronic for different people. Using neem powder as a nasal drop can help you treat sinusitis by lowering the inflammation in the sinus. You should take 2-3 drops of a mixture of a cup of hot water and one teaspoon of neem powder two times a day to get relief from sinusitis.   

Where to Buy 

Neem is highly beneficial for skin and general health. To avail all health benefits of neem, you can use its leaves, seeds, powder and bark. For consuming it in the dust form, you can buy neem powder from Mirasha, an ecommerce website for medicinal herbs and beauty care products.