Neem oil can nourish your hair and help treat dandruff, itchiness, and scalp inflammation. We will understand this mechanism in the following section.
How Does Neem Oil Help Treat Dandruff?
Neem oil’s antifungal properties can help treat dandruff (1). It is effective against dandruff-causing fungi, including Candida and Malassezia. Its active constituent is nimbidin that has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Nimbidin helps suppress scalp inflammation and treats psoriasis, dermatitis, and other forms of scalp irritation (2). Many anti-dandruff shampoos come with neem oil formulations. Some anecdotal evidence suggests that regular use of neem oil can also help maintain the scalp pH levels. This, in turn, may boost scalp health and prevent dandruff. We will now discuss how you can use neem oil for dandruff treatment.
How To Use Neem Oil For Dandruff Treatment
1. Neem Oil And Apple Cider Vinegar
The use of apple cider vinegar (ACV) in dandruff treatment warrants more research. But anecdotal evidence suggests that ACV may balance scalp pH and reduce dry scalp conditions. It has a pH of 4.5 to 5.5 (similar to that of the scalp). The vinegar is also believed to help fight bacterial infections that may otherwise lead to scalp issues. You Will Need
1 tablespoon of neem oil 2 tablespoons of ACV
Procedure
2. DIY Neem Oil Shampoo
A neem oil shampoo can offer a convenient way to treat dandruff. Preparing it is easy. You Will Need
½ teaspoon of neem oil A regular shampoo
Procedure
3. Neem Oil And Olive Oil
You can use olive oil to dilute the neem oil and make it suitable for those with a sensitive scalp. Olive oil works as a natural conditioner. It moisturizes dry scalp and may help with dandruff treatment (3). It is also said to possess antifungal properties that may help treat dry scalp and itchiness. You Will Need
1 tablespoon of olive oil 1 tablespoon of neem oil
Procedure
4. Mix Of Herbs With Neem Oil
Combine the neem oil with the goodness of bhringaraj, shikakai, and fenugreek powder. These ingredients possess antifungal and antibacterial properties and may help treat dandruff (4), (5), (6). You Will Need
A few drops of neem oil A few basil leaves 1 teaspoon of bhringraj powder 1 teaspoon of shikakai powder 1 teaspoon of fenugreek powder
Procedure
5. Neem Oil With Lemon Peel
Lemon peel is known for its antifungal properties and helps prevent scalp infections (7). It may treat dandruff when used with neem oil. You Will Need
A few drops of neem oil 1 lemon peel
Procedure
6. Neem Oil And Yogurt
Yogurt contains Lactobacillus paracasei, bacteria that can help treat dandruff (8). These bacteria help restore the scalp’s natural microbiome balance. Yogurt also cools an itchy scalp and nourishes your hair. You Will Need
Few drops of neem oil 1 cup of yogurt cup of curd
Procedure
7. Neem Oil With Carrier Oil
Concentrated neem oil can be tough on your scalp. Hence, always dilute it with a carrier oil like that of jojoba or coconut. You Will Need
A few drops of neem oil 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil
Procedure Apart from these simple ways, you can take the following steps to prevent dandruff using neem oil.
Tips For Using Neem Oil
Store neem oil in a cool, dry place and away from direct sunlight. Do not refrigerate neem oil. Do not place neem oil near boiling water. Some people are sensitive to neem oil. Hence, do a patch test before applying it to your scalp.
How long does neem oil take to work? Neem oil takes 1-2 weeks of regular use to show results. How often can you apply neem oil? Diluted neem oil can be applied once daily for 1-2 hours. However, it’s worth noting that leaving it on your hair overnight or applying it more frequently can cause irritation.
