Neem Tel

Neem Tel is the oil pressed from the seed kernels of the neem tree, Azadirachta indica, known in Sanskrit as Nimba. Neem is one of the most important bitter herbs of Ayurveda: the Charaka and Sushruta Samhitas describe it as Tikta (bitter), Sheeta (cooling), Kushtaghna (relieving skin disorders), Kandughna (relieving itching) and Krimighna (anti-parasitic). What it is: a single-ingredient oil, 100% neem seed oil. It has a strong, garlicky smell and is thick and dark yellow; it often turns solid in cold weather, which is natural. Warm the bottle in warm water to liquefy it. How Ayurveda uses it: neem oil is applied to the skin and scalp for itching, recurring rashes, fungal-type patches, dandruff, lice and minor infected-looking spots, and as a Vrana Shodhana (cleansing) oil on small wounds. Its bitterness and coolness balance Pitta and Kapha in the skin. How to use it: neat neem oil is strong. For the skin, mix 1 part neem oil with 4–10 parts coconut or sesame oil and apply a thin layer. For the scalp, mix 5–10 ml with a carrier oil, massage in, leave for 30–60 minutes and wash out with a mild shampoo. Patch-test first. Traditional use and evidence: neem extracts have been studied in the laboratory and small human studies for skin and scalp, but neem oil is not a substitute for medical treatment of skin infections. See a doctor for spreading redness, pus, fever, rashes that don't settle, or skin changes in diabetes. Never swallow neem oil. It is toxic if swallowed, particularly for children, in whom it has caused serious poisoning.

Classical reference: Classical Kushtha & Twak Chikitsa; Nimba described in Charaka & Sushruta Samhita.

External use only. Skin: mix 1 part neem oil with 4–10 parts coconut or sesame oil and apply a thin layer once or twice a day. Scalp: mix 5–10 ml with carrier oil, leave on 30–60 minutes, then wash out. Patch-test first.

For external use only. Never swallow: neem oil is toxic if swallowed and has caused serious poisoning in children. Keep out of reach of children; do not use on infants. Label caution present. Dilute before use and patch-test; stop if it causes burning or a rash. Keep away from the eyes. Consult a physician before use in pregnancy. See a doctor for spreading redness, pus, fever, non-recovery wounds or rashes that do not settle.

What is Neem Tel used for?

Neem Tel, neem seed oil, is traditionally used in Ayurveda on the skin and scalp for Kandu (itching), Kushtha (chronic skin complaints such as recurring rashes), Darunaka (dandruff) and lice, and to cleanse minor wounds. Neem is described in the Charaka Samhita as bitter, cooling and Kushtaghna. It is for external use only and is usually diluted.

How do I use neem oil on the skin?

Neat neem oil is strong, so dilute it: mix 1 part neem oil with 4–10 parts coconut or sesame oil. Do a patch test on the inner arm and wait 24 hours. If there is no reaction, apply a thin layer to the affected area once or twice a day. Keep it away from the eyes and wash your hands afterwards.

Is neem oil good for dandruff and hair?

It is traditionally used for Darunaka (dandruff) and scalp itching, and to clear lice. Mix 5–10 ml with coconut or sesame oil, massage into the scalp, leave it for 30–60 minutes and wash out with a mild shampoo, once or twice a week. Persistent scaling, hair loss in patches or a painful scalp should be checked by a doctor.

Can neem oil be used for acne or fungal infections?

Neem is traditionally used for spots and fungal-type skin patches, and laboratory studies show antimicrobial activity. Diluted neem oil can be dabbed on spots, but it can irritate sensitive or broken skin. Ringworm that spreads, acne with painful cysts, or any infection with fever or spreading redness needs a doctor's treatment.

Can I drink or eat neem oil?

No. Neem oil must never be swallowed. It is toxic when taken by mouth and has caused serious poisoning, including seizures, especially in young children. Keep the bottle out of reach of children. If anyone swallows it, seek emergency medical care immediately. Edible neem preparations are a different matter and must be prescribed.

Why does neem oil smell strong and turn solid?

The strong, garlicky smell comes from neem's natural sulphur compounds and bitter principles, and shows the oil is unrefined. Neem oil also turns cloudy or solid below about 20 °C. This is natural; warm the closed bottle in warm water before use. Store it away from heat and sunlight.

Is neem a classical Ayurvedic herb?

Yes. Nimba (neem) is described in the Charaka and Sushruta Samhitas and the classical Nighantus as Tikta (bitter), Sheeta (cooling), Kushtaghna, Kandughna and Krimighna, and it is used in many classical skin formulas. Neem Tel itself is a single-herb oil rather than a multi-herb classical recipe.