How does neem help hair?

Neem oil has anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antioxidant properties which helps in preventing baldness. It has proved effective in treating psoriasis of the scalp, a condition in which there is redness, inflammation and scaling of the scalp.

The regenerative properties of neem oil help the cells to divide faster and promote the growth and function of hair follicles. This, in turn, helps in hair growth.

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Dandruff is caused due to a fungus called Malassezia. This fungus binds to the surface of the scalp and increases the production of sebum on the scalp. Gedunin and nimbidol found in neem extracts have anti-fungal properties, thus they help in reducing dandruff.

Neem oil helps in reducing the inflammation, itchiness, and irritation on the scalp caused by dandruff.

Neem oil has the ability to maintain the natural acidity of the scalp, also called as the pH balance of the scalp. The naturally acidic environment of the scalp also prevents fungal infections.

Research has shown that neem oil has the ability to kill head lice. A study done to determine the efficacy of neem oil in eliminating lice showed that the application of shampoo containing neem oil can kill all the lice within 20 minutes. The insecticidal agent present in neem, called azadirachtin, obstructs the growth and reproduction of lice and ultimately kills them. Also, the smell of the neem oil suffocates the lice, thus it can also be used as a preventive measure against head lice.

Neem extracts contain various fatty acids like linoleic acid, oleic acid, and stearic acid which replenishes the hair and provide lustre to frizzy and dry hair. You can add neem oil in your regular shampoo for reaping the benefits.

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The high levels of antioxidants in neem oil help in preventing the premature greying of hair. Premature greying of hair can occur due to many reasons, but neem oil would be beneficial if the cause of greying is either hormonal imbalance, sun damage or stress. Remember that while neem oil delays the greying of hair, it cannot turn grey hair into black ones.