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Neem oil: The essential information
Neem oil has a wide variety of uses. It is most commonly used as an organic pesticide for gardening, and for growing fruit and vegetables. It also has uses in the beauty industry, including in toothpaste, skincare, cosmetics, and hair products.
In some parts of the world, it is used for medicinal purposes, but these are untested in the UK, and are therefore not recommended here.
The components of neem oil are:
· Linoleic Acid– 2.1%
· Various Lower Fatty Acids– 2.3%
· Palmitic Acid– 12.6%
· Stearic Acid– 21.4%
· Oleic Acid– 52.8%
Note: The percentages shown here can vary slightly from tree to tree.
We sell 100% pure neem oil in our shop. You can get a bottle here.
We also sell natural liquid soap, which is perfect for mixing with neem oil. This is available here.
Three uses for neem oil
Neem oil has many practical uses, including as a spray, and as neem cakes. Below is a list of three different applications for neem oil.
SOIL DRENCH
Soil drenching is the process of soaking the soil in a product, ready to be absorbed by a plant. It provides a deep, targeted treatment to the plant, and is a useful way to apply a plant protector to plants and trees that are faced with an infestation. During a soil drench, the product is poured directly over the roots, near the stem or the trunk. As such, it is best to do this early in the growing season.
Neem oil can be used in a soil drench. It works effectively to help reduce insects, pests, and fungal spread. As it is biodegradable, it leaves no lasting effect on the soil.
NEEM OIL SPRAY
A neem oil spray can be used on both your garden and on pets to deal with a pest infestation. It is non-toxic, and leaves no dangerous residue in the soil after use. In soil, it takes up to 22 days to break down, but in water it takes up to 4 days. When applied to young plant growth, it is at its most useful.
To create neem oil spray, mix 2 tsp of neem oil, 1 tsp of natural liquid soap, and 2 litres of water together well, before pouring into a spray bottle and using on your plants.
NEEM OIL SOAP
Neem oil soap can be used like any other soap. It is particularly useful for those with skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, acne, and ringworm. It can be used daily, as part of your washing routine. Apply it directly to areas of concern, but make sure to discontinue use if irritation occurs.