Herbal Party Series: NEEM

Hey everyone,

Some weeks ago, we announced that several powders/herbs are now available on the African Naturalistas store. And I was excited to see that too, but then when I clicked on the post, I was a trifle confused because I didn't know what 75% of them were, how they're used and what their benefits are. I know there's at least someone out there who's in the same boat, so we've started a series with a focus on all the herbs posted, so that we can learn a thing or two.

First was Amla, then Shikakai. Today we have Neem!

Source : Neem fruit and leaves

Its scientific name is Azadirachta indica, and the tree is native to India and the Indian Subcontinent. It's also called Indian Lilac. Its fruits and seeds are the source of neem oil.

HAIR USE
Neem products (including the powder or oil) are thought by Ayurvedic practitioners to be anti fungal, antibacterial, among other characteristics (its also used to kill pests and insects). While reading, I saw that it is good to fight against dandruff and scalp infections, and also strengthens your hair. HOWEVER, I read that the smell can be really strong, so you have to be able to manage it. In addition, Dabs of Naija Hair Can Grow, tried using Neem oil on her hair (which is relaxed) and had a horrible experience, so PLEASE make sure you test a tiny patch of hair first, before trying it on your whole head.

HOW TO USE IT

Simply mix your neem powder with warm water to form a paste. You can also mix with Amla powder and Shikakai powder to make your paste (2 parts of these, and 1 part of neem, mixed with water). Massage the paste into your scalp and wait for a little bit (I've seen anywhere from 5 minutes to 30 minutes) before rinsing off. Make sure it's all rinsed off COMPLETELY - you can rinse with some ACV as well if you want.