Neem is an herb from the neem tree, which may have some potential benefits, such as supporting dental health and hair care. However, more research is necessary.
In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, people have used the bark, wood, sap, leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, and oils from the neem tree, other names for which include Azadirachta indica and Indian lilac. Neem may have several health benefits, but much of the available research does not involve human participants.
Uses
Neem is a herb that people have traditionally used for several purposes.
Skin conditions
Although there is a lack of evidence to demonstrate its effectiveness, people have been using neem to help treat many skin conditions, including:
acne
eczema
impetigo
chicken pox
psoriasis
itching
scabies
Neem may be beneficial in treating wounds and some skin infections due to its antimicrobial properties.
Hair care
Neem may be able to reduce dandruff, which is a common scalp condition. A 2024 study using rats found that hair gel and leave-in tonics containing rosemary and neem extracts outperformed minoxidil, the standard treatment for dandruff.
Dental care
A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis notes that neem is one of the most common herbal ingredients used in oral care products and is more commonly used in South Asian countries. This is because of its potential anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
The authors found that herbal toothpastes, such as those containing neem, were as effective as toothpastes that did not contain herbal ingredients at reducing dental plaque. However, the authors emphasise that the evidence is from low quality studies.
Benefits
Although research is limited, a 2020 overview of research suggests that neem has the following effects:
antioxidant
anti-inflammatory
anticancerous
Antidiabetic
A 2022 literature review also suggests that neem has antiarthritic and antimicrobial activities. A 2024 article notes that, based on preclinical studies and clinical trials, neem may be a promising complementary treatment option for certain medical conditions, such as: cancer; diabetes; skin diseases, such as psoriasis, stomach ulcers. However, more research in humans is necessary to determine its effects and safety.
A person should speak with a doctor before considering using neem to help treat any medical condition. It is also important to continue the prescribed medication and treatment options.
Antioxidant
According to a 2021 article various studies have shown that neem’s antioxidant properties are related to polyphenols and compounds such as azadirachtin and nimbin. The 2020 overview of research suggests that various studies have tested the antioxidant effect of neem and its effect on the body’s natural defenses.
Anti-inflammatory
Previous research suggests that limonoid, a compound found in neem, inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators in the body, reducing inflammation. It may also provide pain relief. The authors of the review state that the anti-inflammatory properties found in certain compounds in neem play an important role in the herb’s anticancer and antidiabetic properties.
Anticancerous
A 2022 literature review notes that neem may have the potential to help treat prostate cancer when used alone or in combination with conventional treatment options, such as chemotherapy. The authors suggest that neem and neem-based products can interfere with the processes that cause prostate cancer cell incidence, progression, and resistance to chemotherapy. However, it is important to note that further research is necessary, and the authors state the need for clinical studies.
Antidiabetic
Studies on rats found that the leaf and bark extract of neem had a similar effect on glucose compared to insulin. However, it is important to note that there is still ongoing research regarding the effects and toxicity of neem extracts. (Medical News Today)
