Neem Oil Treatments

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Note: The use of neem oil for medical purposes is largely untested in the UK. Therefore, this post is mostly for information only, and does not constitute advice. Please consult a doctor before use.

There are a wide range of treatments involving neem oil, of which only a few are mentioned here. 

NON-HEALING WOUNDS

One study, conducted by the National Library of Medicine, found that when a combination of neem oil and turmeric was applied to non-healing wounds, it resulted in a minimum of 50% improvement in nearly 3/4 of their participants after 8 weeks. 

When neem was applied on its own, a 43% improvement was recorded. Compared to turmeric as the sole applicant, 18% of participants saw the same results. As such, it may be that neem oil contributes significantly to the treatment of non-healing wounds.

SORE MUSCLES AND JOINT PAIN

Sore muscles and joint pain are common injuries in a variety of situations, ranging from as a result of intense exercise, to injuries sustained in minor road traffic collisions. To ease the pain in your joints, create a mixture of 1 part neem oil to 9 parts carrier oil (almond, olive, or coconut oil). Heat the mixture slightly and massage into the sore areas of your body, taking care to discontinue if skin irritation occurs.

NAIL FUNGUS

There is some evidence to suggest that neem oil can be used as an antifungal nail treatment. Neat neem oil can be used, but only on the nails to avoid irritation to the surrounding skin. Other essential oils can then be added to mask the smell of the neem oil. Apply the solution to the affected nail twice a day until the nail has completely regrown. This could take several months.

SCABIES

Scabies is a skin condition caused by mites. It is highly infectious, and causes a lot of irritation. Although traditional treatments involve using a strong pesticide called permethrin, and applying it over your body, neem oil can be used a non-toxic substitute. To do so, mix 1 part of neem oil to 9 parts of carrier oil. Apply the solution over your body, and massage it in. You may be able to add essential oils to mask the smell.

CHICKENPOX

Neem oil can be effective in killing the virus which causes chickenpox, and helping the patient to recover more quickly. It can also help prevent it. In addition to this, it can help reduce inflammation, and provide soothing relief from itching. To do so, make sure you add 10-15 neem leaves to a bath of lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes, before taking a bath. Do this at least once per day.

BUG BITES

Neem oil is effective in treating bites from mosquitoes, ants, and other biting insects. It can also help to reduce swelling and inflammation, as well as calm irritation. For small areas, use a couple of drops of pure neem oil, and massage into your skin until it is fully absorbed. For larger areas, mix a few drops with a carrier oil before application.

VAGINAL ITCHING

Anecdotal evidence suggests that neem oil is very effective in treating vaginal itching, but this is largely untested in the UK, and so it should be used with caution. Neem oil can be applied topically to the affected areas, but discontinue use and seek medical advice if itching worsens or continues.

BOILS

Neem oil is thought to be effective in treating boils fast. Its antiseptic, antibacterial, and antimicrobial properties make it a good choice. To treat boils, apply pure neem oil directly to it two to three times a day. If you experience further irritation, immediately stop use.

COLD SORES

Cold sores are caused by the herpes virus. Neem has powerful antiviral properties which can be used to target cold sores, among other viruses. To treat them, apply a small amount of neem oil directly to the cold sore 3-4 times a day until it clears. Discontinue use if further irritation occurs.