DESCRIPTION
DESCRIPTIONBotany: Neem is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 15–20 metres, rarely to 35–40 metres. It is evergreen, but in severe drought it may shed most or nearly all of its leaves. The branches are wide spread. The fairly dense crown is roundish or oval and may reach a diameter of 15–20 metres in old, free-standing specimens.
History and/or folklore: The medicinal and antimicrobial activity of plant extract has been known for generations. The earliest use of a plant being used as human medication is found on an Egyptian papyrus dated about 1550 BC (the Ebers Papyrus-ACD). Almost every part of the neem tree is used in traditional medicine in India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Indochina, Java and Thailand. The stem, root bark, and young fruits are used to treat malaria and cutaneous diseases. The tender leaves have been used in the treatment of worm infections, ulcers, cardiovascular diseases and for their pesticide and insect-repellent activity. Neem oil has been used in traditional Indian medicine for thousands of years, practically as a panacea for all ailments. It is one of Indian’s most reverential treatments for problem skin.
Products:
Neem oil (Melia azadirachta fixed oil)
Melia azadirachta botanical extract
Melia azadirachta essential oil
USES
Neem fixed oil
A very aromatic oil (neem also known as margosa or nimba). There are many oils but few have as many therapeutic properties as neem oil. Neem oil is known for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. The oil has moisturizing, regenerating and restricting properties. As an ointment neem oil can be used to treat wounds, boils and eczema. It can be used in massage to combat muscle pain, oedema of the joints and fever. It is an antifungal and antiviral agent and also combats lice and other parasites. Applied to the scalp, it has the reputation of retarding baldness and the appearance of white hair. In the form of soap, it can protect humans against pain, illness and the effects of aging.
Melia azadirachta botanical extract
It is used to prevent pyorrhoea and skin diseases. It acts as a vermicide, softens hard and rough skin, and is used as an antiseptic and in hair care as it checks hair loss, stimulates hair growth and darkens hair. Neem also inhibits allergic reactions when applied to the skin. Neem compounds inhibit the stimulus produced by histamine and may be helpful in skin rashes and bronchial allergy. Application of a neem-based cream or lotion will stop the itching and inflammation of rashes.
Melia azadirachta essential oil
It is used to reduce dental caries and inflammation of the mouth when used an ingredient in dental preparations. Naturally occurring oil (from seed of A. indica) has pronounced antimicrobial properties.
Neem bark and leaves
Traditional use: Neem is commonly used for toothbrushes for cleaning the teeth, mouth and hands. Neem is one of the trees that are used in India for toothbrushes. Chewing neem sticks is still common in India, although most modern Indian use neem toothpaste instead. In the toothpaste neem leaf powders and extracts are mainly used. The neem leaf is not the most effective neem product for dental care purposes, but manufacturers do not want to use the more effective bark in a toothpaste, because that would make it brown.
TOXICOLOGY
Azadiatrichta indica essential oil
No important hazards found. However, advised to keep out of the reach of children, and avoid contact with eyes (Skin sensitization – Guinea Pig, Eye Irritation – Rabbit).
Not assessed for safety in cosmetics by industry panel.
Melia azadirachta botanical extract
Dermal toxicity is not determined.
Neem fixed oil
The oil is non-toxic to bees, mammals, birds and earthworms. It generally affects only plant sap-sucking insects. It is also said that Neem oil is not entirely harmless for certain beneficial insects. Spraying neem oil in the sun can cause leaves to burn. Neem oil is biodegradable.
ESSENTIQ PRODUCTS CONTAINING NEEM
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