Benefits of Neem in Beauty Care
By Shahnaz Husain
Neem (Margosa) is nature’s own antibiotic. It has been highly valued in India for its healing and purifying properties. As far as the skin and hair are concerned, Neem contains organic sulphur compounds, which have been found extremely beneficial for the skin and scalp. Neem can easily be used as a home remedy for skin and hair care, not only to prevent problems, but also to soothe and cure.
Neem leaf infusions can be used to wash the skin and hair. To make infusion, first boil water and add the neem leaves to it. Do not boil the leaves, but cover it and let it stand in the water overnight. Next day, strain the water and use it to wash the face and hair. In fact, the water can also be poured as a last rinse on the body. In cases of pimples and acne, or even boils, neem leaf infusion will help. It helps to prevent and soothe heat rashes and prickly heat. In fact, even in itchy conditions, neem leaf infusions will be beneficial. In cases of dandruff and itching of the scalp, neem leaf infusions are very helpful. Use the infusion as a last rinse, after washing the hair.
Neem can also be used with oil for head massage. First heat about 200 gms of pure coconut or sesame seed (til) oil. Take a handful of neem leaves and add it to the oil. Let it stand in the oil for about ten days, allowing it to remain in the sun during this time. Then strain the leaves and keep the oil for use. This is a preventive treatment for rashes, itching and other scalp conditions, including dandruff. It relieves itching and prevents scalp infections.
During humid weather, people with oily skins suffer from increased oiliness. Sweat deposits remain on the skin, leading to rashy conditions. Neem can be used in scrubs for oily skins. The leaves should be dried and powdered and then added to wheat bran (choker) or oats. Add a little rose water and use it as a scrub, rubbing it gently on the skin. It helps to reduce oil and keep the skin free from pimples and spots.
For oily skin, add a few drops of lemon juice to neem leaf infusion and apply on the face. Wash it off after 20 minutes. This also helps to reduce oil and prevent skin problems.
About Shahnaz Husain
Shahnaz Husain, pioneer of the Ayurvedic beauty movement, heads the Shahnaz Husain Group, with a global network of franchise ventures and 375 Ayurvedic formulations. A Case Study at Harvard for Brand Creation, she is now a Harvard Subject for “Emerging Markets.” She was honoured with the Padma Shri Award and is the first woman in 105 years to receive the World’s Greatest Woman Entrepreneur Award from Success, the U.S. business magazine. Indeed, Shahnaz Husain is a leading international beauty icon
