Neem is a tropical, evergreen tree that originated in India. The oil is extracted from the tree's seeds. The purified oil is used in many household products, such as soap, toothpaste, and skin-care treatments. It's also invaluable for indoor gardeners as a control for insects, mites, and fungi.
Azadirachtin, a substance extracted from the neem seed, acts a natural insect growth regulator, disrupting the delicate hormonal balance that insects rely on to molt to their next life stage. Neem oil kills pests on contact, including eggs, larvae, and adults. It repels an invasion of spider mites, the bane of many indoor gardens, and it eliminates powdery mildew and other fungal diseases.
When used properly, neem is not a hazard to people, pets or wildlife.
