Neem is an effective home remedy for itchy scalp, says my mom

An itchy scalp is a common hair problem. I have dandruff, which is probably why I experience an itchy feeling most of the time. It is very bothersome, especially because it may lead to scalp odour, and hair damage. Also, persistent humidity might create an environment that promotes fungal or bacterial diseases. Use azadirachta indica or neem for itchy scalp, says my mom. She believes that since neem is rich in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, it can help treat a variety of scalp infections. When I used it, it helped reduce inflammation on the scalp.

What are the causes of itchy scalp?

An itchy scalp can be caused by several factors, including common irritants and underlying medical issues. Here are a few common culprits –

1. Dandruff

Dandruff can lead to itchy scalp, but does not give the red or inflamed appearance. It can happen in oily areas of your body, like your scalp, face, or chest, as per a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermatology.

2. Seborrheic dermatitis

It is a more severe form of dandruff, with itchy, flaky skin that’s also red and inflamed. It can also happen in oily areas of your body, like your scalp, face, or chest, as per a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermatology.

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3. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition characterised by thick, scaly patches on the skin’s surface that can become red and itchy. According to research published in the Clinical Medicine journal, these patches can form anywhere on the body, although they are most common around the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back.

4. Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common chronic skin disease that, if not treated, can lead to reoccurring infections. It makes your skin dry, and your scalp itchy and inflamed, as per a research published in the StatPearls.

Is neem a good home remedy for itchy scalp?

Neem is an Ayurvedic herb used for several health reasons and is particularly good for scalp health. Neem is rich in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as per a study published in the Journal of Functional Foods. This can help treat scalp infections. “It also has special compounds in it called nimbidin and azadirachtin, which help fight fungi, bacteria, and dandruff. Also, it helps to reduce inflammation on the scalp which can otherwise trigger itching and even chronic hair loss, says Ayurvedic coach Dimple Jangda.

How to use neem for itchy scalp?

Here are some home remedies that you can make using neem to get rid of itchy scalp.

1. Neem and coconut oil hair pack

This hair pack helps improve blood circulation to the scalp and fight dandruff, says the expert.

Ingredients:

• A few drops of neem oil
• A few drops of coconut oil

Method:

• You can mix a few drops of neem oil with coconut oil, and massage this gently on your scalp.
• Leave this on for 30 to 60 minutes.
• Rinse with a mild aloe vera shampoo.

2. Neem hair pack

Ingredients:

• A handful of neem leaves

Method:

• You can grind up some fresh neem leaves in a mortar and pestle to make a paste.
• Apply this paste on your scalp for 30-60 minutes.
• Wash it off with running water.

3. Neem leave wash

Ingredients:

• A handful of neem leaves
• Water

Method:

You can take a couple of neem leaves and boil them in some water, cool and strain, and use this as a final rinse for your hair to keep dandruff at bay.

4. Neem and yogurt hair mask

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of neem powder
• 1 tablespoon of yogurt

Method:

• In a bowl, mix some neem powder with yogurt.
• Apply this on your scalp and rinse after 20 minutes to get rid of dandruff and soothe itchy scalp.

5. Neem oil and aloe vera gel hair mask

Ingredients:

• A few drops of neem oil
• 1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel

Method:

• Mix a few drops of neem oil with aloe vera gel in a bowl.
• Apply the mask to the hair and leave it for 20 minutes.
• Wash it off with warm water.

6. Neem and honey hair pack

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of neem powder
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Method:

• Mix some neem powder with some honey and apply this to your scalp.
• Leave this on for 30 minutes and rinse it off, this provides your scalp with the much-needed hydration.

Are there any side effects of neem?

Neem is considered generally safe for all skin types. But if you face any allergic reactions or have sensitive skin, then avoid using neem. Also, if you experience excessive dryness after using the neem paste on your scalp then avoid using neem. If you use excess neem oil, it can lead to neem toxicity and excessive bitterness absorbed in the bloodstream. Do a patch test before using any herbal product.