WHAT IS NEEM? The neem tree (Azadirachta indica), also known as the Indian lilac, is a highly valued Asian plant that is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine and increasingly in cosmetology. Its leaves, flowers, fruit, seeds and bark are used to produce skin and hair care cosmetics. The seeds of this tree are particularly valuable, as they produce oil rich in vitamins C and E and unsaturated fatty acids. In Ayurvedic and traditional medicine, neem has been used for centuries due to its antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. HOW DOES NEEM AFFECT THE SKIN? Phytochemical composition and biological activity Neem contains numerous bioactive compounds, such as azadirachtin, nimbin, nimbidol, salicylic acid, flavonoids, triterpenoids and fatty acids. These substances are responsible for the broad spectrum of neem's action at the cellular and tissue level. Their synergistic action affects the functioning of the skin barrier, lipid metabolism and the skin's immune response. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects Neem extract has strong antibacterial properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including Propionibacterium acnes – a pathogen responsible for the development of acne lesions. Additionally, triterpenoids and flavonoids contained in neem modulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (including IL-6, TNF-α), which results in a reduction of skin inflammation and papulopustular lesions. Regulating sebum secretion and cleansing the skin Neem has a sebostatic effect, helping to regulate excessive sebum secretion, making it a particularly desirable ingredient in the care of oily and combination skin. It has a keratolytic effect, helping to exfoliate dead skin cells and unclog sebaceous glands, which translates into a reduced risk of blackheads. Antioxidant and regenerative effect Phenolic compounds contained in neem, including flavonoids and vitamin E, neutralize free radicals, delaying the skin's photoaging processes. Neem also supports epidermal regeneration and increases the skin's ability to retain water, strengthening the function of the hydrolipid barrier. Support for the treatment of skin inflammation Studies show that neem can support the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune dermatological diseases such as eczema, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. It soothes irritations, reduces itching and accelerates skin repair processes. HOW DOES NEEM AFFECT HAIR AND SCALP? Neem leaves and seeds contain a number of phytochemicals, such as nimbin, nimbidol, azadirachtin, quercetin, and fatty acids, including oleic, stearic, and linoleic acids. These substances have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, making neem a particularly useful plant for treating scalps prone to inflammation, infections, or dandruff. Antifungal and anti-dandruff effect Neem effectively combats Malassezia fungi, which are one of the main causes of dandruff. Azadirachtin and other limonoids present in neem inhibit the growth of yeast-like fungi, while reducing inflammation and itching. Regular use of neem preparations (e.g. in the form of shampoo or tonic) helps cleanse the scalp and restores its microbiological balance. Sebum regulation and scalp detoxification Thanks to its astringent and cleansing properties, neem helps regulate the activity of sebaceous glands. Reducing excessive sebum secretion reduces the risk of hair becoming oily and inflammation around the follicles. Neem also helps remove toxins and impurities from the scalp, which improves its condition and can prevent hair loss. Strengthening hair follicles and stimulating growth Neem extract stimulates microcirculation in the scalp, which improves hair follicle nutrition and can affect the anagen (growth) phase of the hair's life cycle. Additionally, the antioxidants in neem protect hair follicles from oxidative stress, one of the factors that accelerates hair follicle miniaturization and hair loss. Treatment of inflammation and eczema Neem is helpful in relieving the symptoms of dermatological diseases affecting the scalp, such as seborrheic dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis. Thanks to its immunomodulatory and regenerative properties, neem supports the repair processes of the epidermis, reduces redness and itching, and limits the development of secondary bacterial infections. WHICH COSMETICS CONTAIN NEEM? Neem is an ingredient in many of our skin and hair care cosmetics. Neem in Orientana hair cosmetics combined with other ingredients is a synergistic effect of nature. Neem Hair Shampoo - Cleansing and Balancing the Scalp Neem shampoo is based on an Ayurvedic formula that uses the cleansing and anti-inflammatory properties of this plant. Thanks to the presence of neem leaf extract, it has strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, effectively eliminating dandruff and soothing itchy scalp. Additionally, it regulates sebum secretion and restores microbiome balance, making it an ideal solution for people with problematic, oily scalp. Henna for hair with neem - coloring and care in one Henna Orientana with the addition of neem combines natural hair coloring with care. Neem strengthens hair follicles and has an anti-inflammatory effect on the scalp, counteracting irritations that may occur during the dyeing procedure. Additionally, its presence helps fight dandruff and gives hair a healthy look, without drying or weighing it down. Ayurvedic hair therapy with gotu kola and neem - nourishment and regeneration Orientana also offers an intensive strengthening therapy with gotu kola, neem and other Ayurvedic ingredients. Neem in this formula acts as a detoxifier and regulator of sebaceous glands, supporting the treatment of inflammations of the scalp. In combination with gotu kola, which stimulates collagen synthesis and supports microcirculation, neem strengthens the bulbs, prevents hair loss and accelerates hair growth. Amla-Bhringraj Hair Oil with Nee M – Treatment for Damaged Hair In Amla-Bhringraj oil, neem plays a protective and balancing role. It has an antioxidant and regenerative effect on the scalp and supports the regeneration of damaged hair follicles. In combination with amla (a source of vitamin C) and bhringraj (a traditional herb that strengthens hair), neem improves hair elasticity and resistance to breakage, and also prevents excessive hair loss. Gotu Kola and Neem Hair Lotion – Stimulation and Soothing of the Scalp Gotu kola and neem lotion is a preparation that activates hair growth through anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and microcirculation stimulating effects. Neem cleanses the scalp and eliminates factors that can block hair follicles, while gotu kola improves blood circulation and supports cell division in the hair matrix. Regular use of this lotion brings noticeable effects in the form of thickening the hairstyle and reducing hair loss. WHO SUIT NEEM COSMETICS FOR? Cosmetics with neem are recommended primarily for people struggling with recurring skin conditions such as acne, eczema or dandruff. It is also a good option for those with mature skin who would like to stop the passage of time and hide the signs of skin aging - it is not without reason that neem is called the "elixir of youth". Cosmetics whose key ingredient is neem can bring real relief and restore vitality to even the most problematic skin.