Benefits and Uses of Neem Oil

What Are The Uses For Neem Oil? Best Guide For Making It At Home

Neem oil is a product from the seeds of the Indian lilac tree. This oil is rich in antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and insecticidal properties. Therefore, it is a popular ingredient in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. What are the uses for neem oil? Now, find them out below and learn how to make this herbal oil. 

I. How To Make Neem Oil?

Neem, or Indian Lilac, grows popularly in India and tropical regions. You can easily make its oil at home. Now, see how to make this plant oil below.

1.1. Preparation

The first step is preparing ingredients and tools to extract the seed oil. Get these things ready first. 

• Fully ripen neem seeds;
• Gloves;
• A grinder or a set of mortar and pestles;
• Olive, coconut, or other carrier oils;
• Two air-tight containers; 
• Cheesecloth.

It will be best if there is a lilac tree in your garden. Or else, you can purchase some seeds from The Rike. 

1.2. Procedure

Then, follow these steps to make your do-it-yourself (DIY) neem oil.

1. Collect the seeds from the Indian lilac tree and remove their outer shells.
2. Use a grinder or the mortar and pestle to crush these seeds until they become powder.
3. Put the neem powder in a container
4. Pour the carrier oil over the powder.
5. Mix them thoroughly.
6. Leave the mixture to stand for several days so that the oil can absorb the beneficial properties of the neem seed.
7. After the oil has soaked, strain the mixture through cheesecloth into another container.

Be careful when handling its seeds, as they can be toxic when you overconsume this seed by mouth. Wear gloves when handling it. Make sure your operation place is well-ventilated.

1.3. Storage

You must store the neem oil in a cool and dry place. Store them in an air-tight bottle or jar to prevent oxidation and contamination. In cool seasons, you can store it at room temperature. Remember to keep it away from sunlight.

However, the room temperature is often high during summer. Therefore, you can put it in the fridge but keep it separated from food and beverages. Avoid putting it in the freezer because it would become thickened between 0℃ and 18.3℃. 

II. What Are The Uses For Neem Oil?

Indian lilac seed has many benefits for skin and hair. It treats infections on the scalp and skin effectively. Just see how to use this natural cosmetic for beauty care. 

2.1. How to use neem oil on hair?

Take the DIY oil you have made out of the fridge and let it warm up to room temperature. Then, follow these steps to produce a hair cosmetic. 

1. Mix 12 drops of this herbal oil with an ounce of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil.
2. Apply it to your scalp. 
3. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes.
4. Rinse it off with shampoo. 

It can help with dandruff, promote hair growth, and improve hair health. Rinse your eyes gently and slowly with fresh water immediately when it comes to contact with your eyes because it will cause itching and irritation. 

2.2. How to use neem oil for acne?

Indian lilac seed oil helps treat acne, warts, moles, and fungal infections on the skin. Follow this guide for removing these issues with your DIY neem oil. 

1. Dilute the herbal oil with water. Alternatively, you can make a DIY facial cleanser or moisturizer by mixing it with other oils like lavender or tea tree oil. 
2. Test the allergic reactions on a small skin area on the back of your hand.
3. If it does not show reactions after 15 minutes, dip a cotton swab in the diluted oil and apply it to the acne.
4. Leave it on for 20 minutes.
5. Rinse it off with lukewarm water.

You may want to use it daily for earlier desired results.

2.3. How to use neem oil on plants?

Indian lilac oil can remove fungal infections and pests from plants. The following guide shows you how to control pests and diseases with this safe organic product. 

1. Dilute four tablespoons of neem oil in a gallon of water
2. Then, use a sprayer or spray bottle to apply the diluted oil evenly on the plant leaves, stems, and soil. 
3. Repeat the daily application for one or two weeks until the infection disappears. 
4. Avoid using this herbal oil in direct sunlight.
5. Do not use this product in high concentrations to avoid damaging the plant.

III. Is Neem Oil Safe?

Neem oil is generally considered safe for use. But it may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people. In addition, this substance can pose risks in case of improper use or large quantities. Check out safety rules and precautions when using this product here. 

3.1. Risk & Precautions For Humans

This herbal oil is generally safe for humans when used as directed. But you ought to handle it with care as it can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and allergic reactions in some people. Follow these safety rules to minimize risks. 

• Wear gloves when applying this oil to the skin and hair.
• Avoid direct contact with eyes or mouth.
• Do not ingest this oil without the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid vomiting, diarrhea, and other adverse effects.
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using this oil.
• Dilute your homemade oil before applying it to the skin. Remember to test allergic reactions on a small skin patch first. 

Stop using this oil when experiencing any abnormal reactions. Immediately go to the doctor if you have any adverse effects when taking this product by mouth. 

3.2. Is neem oil safe for dogs?

Ask a veterinarian before using this oil for your dogs and pets. Here are some rules for using Indian lilac seed oil for animals.

1. Dilute it with a carrier oil, like coconut or olive oil, in a ratio of 1:10 (one part of this oil in ten parts carrier oil). 
2. Then, apply the mixture to the skin or affected area, and avoid the eyes and mouth. 
3. Repeat the application every week or as needed. 

This remedy can kill parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and mites. Be careful when using this oil for animals, especially when they have any existing health conditions or are taking medication.

IV. Conclusion

This article has answered the question of 'What are the uses for neem oil?' and showed you how to make it. Follow the safety rules to avoid adverse effects. The Rike provides customers with neem tree seeds for planting and producing oil. Let’s go to see more neem products like leaves and seeds or chat with us for information before purchasing them. This herb supplier also provides various types of herbal seeds for your garden.