Neem Oil: The overlooked leaf?

This month I I'm try out a new oil! I've heard about neem oil for a while so I decided to experiment.  Neem oil which is derived from neem leaves is highly treasured in India and South East Asia. Neem oil like other oils is packed full of nutrients! However, what stands out for me is that neem extracts are some of the most powerful anti-fungal plant extracts around! Here are some of the benefits of neem oil:

1) The antibacterial properties of this oil are amazing: it's antiviral which means it stops the growth of viruses.  Its anti-fungal which stops the growth of fungi and antimicrobial which destroys the growth of micro-organisms.- This is perfection
 for the scalp, a nice bit of neem oil would work wonders in a hot oil treatment!

2) That moves on nicely to the next benefit, it's a great treatment for the scalp due to its high levels of antioxidants- It improves scalp health, reducing redness and scalp irritation and maintains the scalp’s PH level. Which is great for those who suffer from dandruff or generally have a sensitive scalp! Remember! a healthy scalp= healthy hair!

3) It conditions dry and under-nourished hair! Neem oil contains several essential fatty acids which allows it to be absorbed quickly by the hair and to penetrate outer layers of the scalp so it can be used when needed. Which is most delightful for your hair!

Skin Benefits: Again due to its anti-bacterial properties, neem oil works well on acne prone skin! As a face mask it removes impurities, nourishes the skin, tightens pores and evens skintone! I'm yet to incorporate neem oil into my skincare regime so will let you know when I do!

So yes, neem oil has a-mazing benefits however, the only not-so-good thing about this oil is the smell! It has a distinctive smell which I can't even compare to anything (sorry guys lol, you're going to have to smell it yourselves). I use neem oil in my conditioning hair masks, mixed with coconut oil and a deep conditioner to dilute the smell. I do use the oil alone if I am applying it directly to a problem area on my scalp! 

I've been using neem oil for two weeks now in my deep conditioning regime and my hair definitely likes it! My hair came out really soft and felt lovely and nourished. My scalp is looking healthy too already. I will keep you updated!

I purchased my neem oil from my local afro-caribbean hair shop, however it can be purchased online or from natural health and beauty stores. Be sure to check that it is 100% pure and not mixed with mineral oil, petroleum or any other fillers. It should also be 'cold pressed' 

Be sure to patch test the oil before you use it!

#organicbeautyjourney #obj

Lots of Love,

xoxo

1st picture from google images