The Healing Properties of Neem Oil for Eczema and Psoriasis

Neem oil is a natural carrier oil extracted from the fruit and seeds of the neem (Azadirachta indica) plant through the cold-pressing method. The oil has been used in traditional Ayurveda medicine to treat various skin-related conditions and ailments. The antibacterial and antifungal properties of neem oil may benefit in treating skin issues like eczema and psoriasis.

Skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis cause skin irritation, redness, and inflammation. Numerous treatment methods are used to treat these skin ailments, but choosing a natural way is considered the best. One of these natural remedies is neem oil, which can alleviate the symptoms of these skin conditions and may also treat them.

In this blog, we will explore how neem oil benefits and heals chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

What is Neem oil?

Neem oil is derived naturally from the seeds and fruits of the neem tree. It is a native tree to India and other parts of South Asia. The oil has a thick consistency and has a yellow-to-brown appearance. It contains essential fatty acids like Omega-6 and Omega-9. According to some researchers, the high fatty acid content in neem oil makes it effective in treating various skin conditions.

The oil is used as an effective medicine for various skin conditions due to its antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Using Neem Oil for skin can eliminate free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which reduces the chances of eczema and psoriasis.

What are the Healing Properties of Neem Oil for Eczema and Psoriasis?

The healing properties of Neem Oil can be attributed to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal nature that can treat skin conditions like Eczema and Psoriasis. The different properties of Neem oil that benefit people to have healthy skin are

1. Anti-inflammatory Properties

Neem oil is a promising natural anti-inflammatory agent with potential therapeutic applications. It is known to possess anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of various compounds such as nimbidin, nimbin, azadirachtin, and quercetin.

These compounds can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with eczema and psoriasis. It also helps soothe and moisturize the skin, which can provide relief from discomfort and prevent further damage.

2. Antifungal and Antimicrobial Properties

Neem oil has antifungal properties, which can help to prevent and treat fungal infections that can exacerbate eczema and psoriasis. It can also help to reduce the spread of bacteria and fungi on the skin, reducing the risk of further outbreaks.

The active compounds in neem oil can interfere with the function of enzymes essential for fungal growth and survival, leading to the death of the fungi. Thus, Neem oil can be applied topically to the skin to treat fungal infections like ringworm, athlete's foot, psoriasis, etc.

3. Antibacterial Properties

Neem oil has antibacterial properties, which help eliminate the bacteria that cause eczema and psoriasis. It can soothe and moisturize the irritated skin caused due to bacterial growth on the skin.

The bioactive compounds like azadirachtin, nimbin, and nimbidin exhibit antibacterial activity that may help with chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. The antibacterial properties of Neem oil also promote skin healing, which is beneficial for people with eczema and psoriasis.

4. Moisturizing Properties

Neem oil benefits in relieving itchy, irritated, and dry skin due to its natural moisturizing properties. It contains a high concentration of essential fatty acids, such as oleic acid, linoleic acid, and palmitic acid, which are known to nourish and moisturize the skin.

Using Neem oil for skin can help retain moisture, thereby preventing dryness and promoting a healthy, supple complexion. The oil is also rich in vitamin E, which protects the skin from free radical damage and reduces the risk of eczema and psoriasis.

How to use neem oil for eczema and psoriasis?

Neem oil can treat several skin ailments like eczema, psoriasis, bacterial infections, etc. But, Neem oil is a highly concentrated and potent oil that must be used carefully. Some of the safe ways to use neem oil for skin ailments are -

1. Neem oil is highly concentrated and can be irritating to the skin if used undiluted. For dilution, one can mix pure neem oil with a carrier oil like almond, jojoba, or coconut oil. Apply this diluted oil on the affected area by using a cotton swab.
2. One can mix a few drops of Neem oil into their regular moisturizer or lotion. Apply this mixture after bathing or showering on the damp skin to lock moisture and hydration.
3. Mix 1/4 cup of shea butter with 2 tablespoons of neem oil and 8 drops of lavender essential oil to make a DIY eczema cream. Mix the ingredients until light and fluffy, and apply it to the affected area as needed.
4. Add 8-10 drops of neem oil into warm bathing water to soothe eczema and psoriasis. Taking a bath in this water will help protect your skin from free radicals and reduce itching, redness, and irritation.

Always do a patch test before applying Neem Oil to your skin or scalp. One may be allergic or have sensitive skin. Therefore, we always recommend doing a patch test. For a patch test, dilute a part of neem oil with 10 drops of carrier oil and apply it to the back of your palm. Do not use this oil any further if it shows signs of irritation, redness, burning, or irritation.

The Bottom Line

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