Neem oil is a cold-pressed carrier oil extracted from the seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), valued for its natural antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used in diluted form for skin and scalp care, as a nourishing massage oil, and as a widely used natural garden spray. It has a dark green to brown colour and a strong, characteristic smell that fades once blended with lighter oils.
What is neem oil?
Neem oil comes from the fruits and seeds of the neem tree, which grows across much of India. Azlok's neem oil is cold-pressed, a method that avoids high heat so the oil keeps more of its natural compounds. The result is a thick, aromatic oil that is soluble in alcohol and most fixed oils, which makes it easy to blend into DIY formulations. It is a functional oil, not a light cosmetic base — you almost always mix it with something milder before use.
Common uses
- Skincare: Added in small amounts to creams, balms and cleansing oils, usually for oily or blemish-prone skin.
- Haircare: Blended into hair oils and scalp treatments, or mixed into shampoos and masks.
- Massage blends: Combined with a carrier like coconut or sesame oil for a nourishing body oil.
- Soap and candle making: Used as a specialty oil in cold-process soap recipes.
- Garden and plant care: Diluted with water and a little mild soap as an emulsifier, it is one of the most popular home remedies for garden pests and leaf issues.
How to use neem oil
Neem oil is potent, so dilution is the rule.
- For skin: Mix around 5 to 10 percent neem oil into a base such as coconut, jojoba or grapeseed oil. So for every 10 ml of carrier oil, add roughly half to one ml of neem.
- For hair and scalp: Blend a teaspoon of neem oil into two to three tablespoons of coconut or jojoba oil. Massage in, leave for 30 minutes to an hour, then wash out thoroughly.
- For plants: Mix about 5 ml neem oil per litre of water with a few drops of mild liquid soap to help it combine. Shake well and spray in the early morning or evening, not in strong sun.
Because neem oil thickens and may solidify in cold weather, warm the bottle in a bowl of warm water before pouring.
Tips and safety notes
- Patch test first. Apply a small diluted amount to your inner forearm and wait 24 hours before wider use.
- Never apply undiluted neem oil to skin or hair — the concentration can irritate.
- Do not ingest. Neem oil is for external and horticultural use only.
- Keep away from children and pets.
- Avoid during pregnancy unless your doctor advises otherwise.
- Mind the smell. The strong odour is natural; blending with jojoba, coconut or grapeseed oil softens it considerably.
- Neem oil has a high flash point (around 218 °C), but as with any oil, keep it away from open flames.
Buying and storage
Look for cold-pressed neem oil with a clear botanical name (Azadirachta indica) on the label. Azlok offers neem oil starting at ₹269, in pack sizes from 500 grams up to 25 kilograms, which suits both home users and small businesses buying in bulk. It has a shelf life of about two years when stored correctly.
Store the oil in a cool, dark place, tightly closed, away from direct sunlight and heat. If it turns cloudy or semi-solid in winter, that is normal for neem oil — gently warm it to bring it back to liquid form. Always reseal the cap firmly to slow oxidation and keep the aroma fresh.
FAQ
Can I apply neem oil directly on my skin?
It is best not to. Neem oil is strong and can cause irritation when used neat. Dilute it to about 5 to 10 percent in a gentle carrier oil like coconut or jojoba, and always patch-test first.
Why does neem oil smell so strong?
The pungent, garlic-and-sulphur-like smell is natural and comes from the oil's own compounds. Blending it with a lighter oil or adding a few drops of a pleasant essential oil helps mask it.
How do I use neem oil for plants?
Mix roughly 5 ml of neem oil per litre of water with a few drops of mild liquid soap to help it emulsify. Spray on affected plants in the early morning or evening, and reapply as needed.
Does neem oil solidify?
Yes, in cooler temperatures neem oil can thicken or turn semi-solid. This does not mean it has gone bad. Simply warm the bottle in warm water until it flows again.
Is Azlok neem oil cold-pressed?
Yes. Azlok neem oil is cold-pressed from neem seeds, a low-heat method that helps retain the oil's natural nutrients and properties.