Achieving glorious, healthy hair is a dream that involves a blend of tender care, a nutritious diet, and intelligent choices. From using the right shampoo and conditioner to trimming the split end regularly and focusing on a balanced diet, luscious, bouncy hair asks for a wholesome routine. But there’s a superhero in this journey that adds a magical touch to all the hair care concerns: ‘ Neem Oil.’ From being a stellar defender against dandruff to adding a smooth glossier effect to hair locks, Neem Oil is nature’s secret offering.
Here’s all about the ultimate hair care routine using neem leaf oil. Continue reading to make the most out of it.
Neem Oil: Understanding Its Properties
The potent oil extracted from the seeds of Neem trees (scientifically Azadirachta indica). Neem is native to the Indian subcontinent and is famous for its diverse uses in skincare, haircare, traditional medication, and more. Some of its common properties include:
- Antifungal and Antibacterial: The natural extract possesses remarkable antifungal and antibacterial properties with compounds like nimbin, nimibidin, and azadirachtin.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Nimbin and Nimibidin possess potent anti-inflammatory properties that offer a soothing and calming effect on different skin and hair conditions.
- Antioxidant: Azadirachitin constantly plays a crucial role in combating free radicals. Not only that, but it also adds a protective layer against premature aging.
- Insect Repellent: This natural elixir boasts impressive insect-repellent properties and is used as a potent deterrent in various applications.
- Moisturizing: With its high content of fatty acids, the oil extract from neem seeds offers deep moisturization.
Neem Oil is rich in
- Azadirachtin
- Nimbin
- Nimbidin
- Fatty Acids, including Oleic Acid and Linoleic Acid
- Vitamin E
- Various Triterpenoids
Usage and Benefits of Neem Oil for Hair
Neem oil is a versatile and natural solution for various hair care problems. This magical concoction has many benefits, adding to an ultimate hair care routine.
Here’s a detailed overview of the same:
- Promotes Hair Growth:
Its rich composition (mainly fatty acids like Oleic Acid and Linoleic Acid) stimulates hair follicles and nourishes the scalp, thus promoting hair growth. Regular scalp massage with this potent oil contributes to fuller, longer, luscious hair.
- Treats Dandruff and other Scalp Conditions:
With its powerful antifungal and antibacterial properties, it acts as a magical solution to fight against managing dandruff. This oil is a robust defender that eliminates bacteria and fungal infections and relieves troublesome scalp flakes. Its regular usage can reduce itching on the scalp, leaving it refreshed and revitalized.
Its anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe an irritating scalp, particularly conditions like eczema and psoriases.
Natural Lice Treatment:
The presence of Azadirachtin makes it a highly effective solution for head lice infestation. Azadirachtin is a powerful insect repellent, and thus, when applied on hair, it disrupts the life cycle of lice, eliminating both eggs and adult lice.
Prevent Hair Loss:
One of its remarkable benefits is hair loss prevention, all thanks to the rich blend of nutrients in the oil. It provides the scalp with all necessary nourishments, thus helping to strengthen hair strands and reduce the chances of hair breakage.
Strengthen Hair:
Its regular application works wonders in fortifying the hair strands, thus contributing to stronger, unbreakable, and resilient hair. Essential fatty acids nourish the hair strands from roots to tips, improving overall elasticity and resistance to damage.
Condition Hair:
The similar fatty acids that strengthen the hair also add a layer of conditioning. Oleic Acid and Linoleic Acid lock moisture in the hair strands, promote hydration, and thus leave hair softer, smoother, and more manageable.
Add Shine:
The natural emollients in the oil add a radiant shine to the hair strands, elevating the overall appearance. Whether your hair is naturally dull or has lost its luster due to any chemicalized treatment, this potent concoction will add a stunning, glossy finish.
Prevents Premature Graying:
Although it doesn’t directly prevent premature graying of hair, its nutrient profile may contribute to the same. Vitamin E and other antioxidants may help combat oxidative stress, thus protecting hair from free oxidative damage, including whitening.
How to use Neem Oil For Hair?
Since neem oil is essential, using it for hair care benefits involves a unique application process. Here’s an easy guide on how to use it to gain maximum benefits:
All that you will need:
Neem Oil, Carrier Oil (coconut, olive, sesame, or jojoba oil), a bowl, and a warming bowl (optional).
Procedure
- Mix 1:1 or 1:2 neem oil and any carrier oil in a bowl. Since neem oil can be harsh when used singularly, diluting it with any carrier oil is necessary.
- Warm the oil mix for 10 to 15 seconds in a microwave or over gas (do not burn). Hot oil massages are generally more beneficial; however, you can continue without that.
- Now comb your hair to remove any knots and tangles, and start applying oil with the help of your fingertips. Once the oil is evenly spread over your scalp, lightly massage to improve blood circulation and enhance absorption.
- Once done, allow the oil to sit for at least an hour or overnight.
- Later, use a mild shampoo and follow your hair with a nourishing conditioner. Mix 1 to 2 drops of neem oil into your conditioner if you have dry hair.
Tips
- Always perform a patch test on the lower back of your scalp or underarm.
- Adjust the neem oil ratio depending on your scalp’s sensitivity.
- Use neem oil no more than twice a week.
Potential Side Effects
- Irritation, especially when applied on cracked skin.
- Being an oil of high density, it may clog pores on the scalp.
- Itching and irritation in the eyes.
- Breathing difficulties, especially for those with sensitive nose.
Conclusion
Neem oil is a beneficial and versatile solution for hair care. Being a rich source of nutrients, it offers nourishment to the scalp and hair length while fighting against many infectious conditions. Beyond aesthetics, regular oil massage on the scalp provides a calming and relaxing experience. To enjoy its benefits at the most, include neem oil in your weekly hair care routine and experience benefits within a few weeks or in less than a month.
References:
- Tobin DJ, Paus R. Graying: Gerontobiology of the hair follicle pigmentary unit. Exp Gerontol. 2001;36:29–54. [PubMed]
- Kaul O. Neem: A global perspective. In: Koul O, Wahab S, editors. Neem: Today and in the New Millennium. Dordrecht: Kluwer Academic Publishers; 2004. pp. 1–19. [Google Scholar]
