Neem (Azadirachta indica)
What neem is, how classical Indian texts describe it, what published studies show and where they fall short, how to use it safely, and which GraceYes products contain it.
Names
Neem (Hindi); Nimba (Sanskrit). The parts used are the leaf and seed oil.
Classical Indian view
API Vol II has two Nimba monographs. The bark monograph lists it as Kandughna (anti-itch) and Vranasodhana (cleanses wounds). The leaf monograph lists uses in Vrana and Kustha. Charaka Samhita (Sutrasthana 4.11) places it in the Kandughna group.
Key compounds
Azadirachtin, nimbin, nimbidin, quercetin.
What studies show
- A neem-seed shampoo cleared head lice in 60 children with no scalp irritation. The study had no control group (PubMed).
- A rosemary and neem extract beat ketoconazole against Malassezia, the dandruff yeast, in the lab (PubMed).
- A dermatology review describes antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity (PubMed).
Safety
Contact allergy has been reported (PubMed). Neem oil swallowed by infants has caused serious poisoning (PubMed). Keep it away from children and never use it on babies.
GraceYes products that contain it
This page is for general information and is not medical advice. Studies are linked so you can read them yourself. Always patch-test a new product, and speak to a doctor about any skin or scalp condition.