Shahnaz Husain
Neem (Margosa) is not only one of the most powerful natural antiseptics, but is also nature’s own antibiotic. The botanical name is Azaridachta indica, which indicates that it is indigenous to India. Neem has a history which goes back thousands of years. It has been identified on 5000-year old seals of the Indus Valley Civilization. Over the centuries Neem has been highly valued in India for its healing and purifying properties and it is probably the most widely used among plant products. In Sanskrit, Neem is called “sarva roga nibarini” which means that it is “the cure for all ailments.” It was used as a preventive in malaria, cholera, smallpox and many other such diseases. It was also used to treat bronchial ailments, asthma, jaundice and various digestive problems. It is also commonly used in homes for skin and hair problems like prickly heat, boils, rashes, dandruff, itching, etc.
One of the most common uses of Neem in India has been for cleaning and brushing the teeth, for which the twigs are used. During the ancient times, poultices were made from neem leaves for skin diseases and skin ulcers, In fact, neem leaf infusions are still used to relieve itching and rashes, as well as for clearing away scabs of diseases like chicken pox and measles.
As far as the skin and hair are concerned, Neem contains organic sulphur compounds, which have been found extremely beneficial for the skin and scalp. Due to its versatile healing actions, neem extracts and oil have been used in protective, preventive and corrective care of the skin and hair. It has a healing and soothing effect on inflammatory and eruptive skin conditions. The cooling and soothing action of Neem has made it invaluable for the care of oily skin conditions like acne, pimples, rashes and spots, as well as scalp conditions like dandruff. It has also helped to soothe skin-sensitivity in dry and dehydrated skins. Neem has been included in formulations for skin and hair care due to its many benefits.
Home Care
During hot and humid weather, the skin and scalp are more prone to rashes and eruptive conditions. The skin and hair also attract more dirt and pollutants during humid weather. Neem can easily be used as a home remedy for skin and hair care, not only to prevent problems, but also to soothe and cure.
Neem leaf infusions can be used to wash the skin and hair. First boil water and add the neem leaves to it. Do not boil the leaves, but cover it and let it stand in the water overnight. Next day, strain the water and use it to wash the face and hair. In fact, the water can also be poured as a last rinse on the body. In cases of pimples and acne, or even boils, neem leaf infusion will help. It helps to prevent and soothe heat rashes and prickly heat. In fact, even in itchy conditions, neem leaf infusions will be beneficial. In cases of dandruff and itching of the scalp, neem leaf infusions are very helpful. Use the infusion as a last rinse, after washing the hair.
Neem can also be used with oil for head massage. First heat about 200 gms of pure coconut or sesame seed (til) oil. Take a handful of neem leaves and add it to the oil. Let it stand in the oil for about ten days, allowing it to remain in the sun during this time. Then strain the leaves and keep the oil for use. This is a preventive treatment for rashes, itching and other scalp conditions, including dandruff. It relieves itching and prevents scalp infections.
During humid weather, people with oily skins suffer from increased oiliness. Sweat deposits remain on the skin, leading to rashy conditions. Neem can be used in scrubs for oily skins. The leaves should be dried and powdered and then added to wheat bran (choker) or oats. Add a little rose water and use it as a scrub, rubbing it gently on the skin. It helps to reduce oil and keep the skin free from pimples and spots.
For oily skin, add a few drops of lemon juice to neem leaf infusion and apply on the face. Wash it off after 20 minutes. This also helps to reduce oil and prevent skin problems.
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