Neem oil is fab for fungal and bacterial problems. I've long recommended it for fungal toenails and feet and it usually works a dream, especially if you add oils to it like teatree, thyme etc.

It's a highly-prized oil in India and is used there as an all-round first aid balm, for infections, dry eczema type skin, acne and can help hair issues like dandruff and irritated scalp. In ancient Sanskrit texts, Neem is referred to as 'The Village Pharmacy'.

Comes in a beautiful Italian glass bottle. Cold-pressed, no solvents used and tested for pesticide levels. It smells quite strong so always put it with something else like lemon or geranium etc to improve the pong - see below.

How to Use:

Neem is pretty potent stuff, so you don't use it on its own. Dilute about 1 part neem to 10 parts other oil or cream/balm etc eg. max 10% neem to 90% other oil or base. And always patch test for 48 hours with this one.

For feet: I tend to add up to 5ml in a 50ml oil or lotion for foot creams.

For hair conditioning eg. brittle, dry hair: combine it with something like coconut or jojoba oil as above, warm and massage into your scalp for 10 minutes, then wash out. It can be used to get rid of head lice. Dilute as above and massage into the scalp. Leave on overnight, covering your head with a shower cap or put a towel on your pillow as it will stain.

It is very high in omega 9 so great for conditioning skin. Very useful for weak, splitting nails too. Mix with your usual creams etc. Add a couple of drops of lemon essential oil for discoloured nails.

Some people use a few drops in pet shampoos to help with fleas etc but please be led by your vet - I'm not an animal expert!

Tip: this oil can start to harden a bit in the bottle if it gets cold. That's actually a sign it is pure, unadulterated neem oil. It won't affect it but just stand the bottle in some warm water to re-melt it, or run the bottle under a warm tap. It's not used to the colder climes of the UK! Don't microwave or put it in boiling water as it will affect the oil.

Important: External use only. Patch test before use as always and avoid if you have any related allergies. Not for use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Don't use it as a pesticide in the garden as many blogs say; it can be harmful to bees.