Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a fast-growing evergreen tree native to India, where its leaves have been part of traditional hair and skin care for generations. Neem powder is simply the dried, ground leaves. It has a strong, bitter, herbal smell, but it's easy to use in homemade hair masks, rinses and oils. Here's how.

Neem powder is for external use only. Do not eat or drink it.

Before you start

• Patch test: apply a little of the mixed paste to the inside of your elbow 48 hours before using it on your face or scalp, and don't use it if you notice any irritation.
• Keep it well away from your eyes, and don't use it on broken or sore skin.
• Not for use on babies or young children, and don't use it if you're pregnant or trying to conceive.

1. Neem hair mask

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of neem powder with warm water or plain yoghurt to a smooth paste.
2. Apply to damp hair and scalp.
3. Cover with a shower cap and leave for 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Rinse thoroughly, then shampoo and condition as usual.

2. Neem hair rinse

Stir 1 tablespoon of neem powder into 500 ml of just-boiled water and leave to steep for 15 minutes. Strain through a fine cloth or coffee filter and let it cool completely. After shampooing, pour it slowly over your hair, massage into the scalp, and rinse with cool water after a few minutes.

3. Homemade neem hair oil

Gently warm 100 ml of coconut oil with 1 to 2 tablespoons of neem powder over a very low heat for 5 to 10 minutes; don't let it bubble. Leave to cool and infuse, then strain through a fine cloth. Massage a little into your scalp, leave for an hour and wash out with shampoo.

4. Traditional Ayurvedic hair wash

Mix 1 teaspoon of neem powder with 1 tablespoon each of shikakai and amla powder, then add warm water to make a thin paste. Massage into wet hair and scalp, and rinse thoroughly. Add a little aritha for a soft lather.

Tips

• Neem's smell is strong. Mixing it with yoghurt, coconut oil or a few drops of lavender helps.
• Rinse twice to remove any powder from the scalp.
• Once a week is plenty for most people.
• Keep the pouch sealed in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children.

Shop our Neem Powder, or read how to use brahmi powder for hair.