Neem oil

What is neem oil?

Neem oil is a thick, yellowish oil with a strong, bitter odor. It contains over 35 different active ingredients that are primarily effective against insects and fungi. The most important active ingredient is azadirachtin, which disrupts the development and reproduction of parasites such as fleas, lice and mites. Neem oil also has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and healing properties that can help with skin problems.

How does neem oil affect dogs?

Neem oil acts as a natural insecticide and repellent for dogs. The compound in the oil, known as azadirachtin, is a powerful insecticide that stops insects from digesting and prevents them from reproducing. Azadirachtin is similar to the insects' endogenous hormone, which is responsible for their growth and moulting. If the parasites ingest the azadirachtin, this hormone is disrupted and the parasites can no longer develop or reproduce.

Neem oil is particularly effective against the larvae of the parasites that are found in the dog's coat or on the skin. Neem oil is less effective against adult parasites as they are more resistant. However, neem oil tastes and smells very unpleasant to the insects, so they tend to avoid the dog or fall away from it.

In addition to its insecticidal effect, neem oil also has a caring effect on the dog's skin. It moisturizes, prevents the skin from drying out and promotes wound healing. It relieves itching, dandruff and eczema and is effective against bacterial infections.

How is neem oil used on dogs?

Neem oil may only be used externally on dogs. Internal use can lead to symptoms of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea or breathing difficulties. If the dog licks off a small amount of neem oil, this is not usually harmful, but it should still be observed. If a larger amount is ingested, consult a vet immediately.

There are various ways of applying neem oil to dogs:

• You can mix the neem oil with the dog shampoo and wash the dog with it. Depending on the size and coat structure of the dog, half a teaspoon to a whole teaspoon of neem oil per wash is sufficient.
• You can dilute the neem oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or almond oil and rub it into the coat or the affected areas of skin. The ratio should be about 1:10, i.e. one part neem oil to ten parts carrier oil.
• You can dilute the neem oil with water and pour it into a spray bottle. This can be used to spray the fur or the affected areas of skin. The ratio should be about 1:20, i.e. one part neem oil to twenty parts water.
• You can make an ointment from neem oil and sulphur and apply it to the affected areas of skin. The ointment is particularly effective against mites and fungi. The ratio should be about 1:4, i.e. one part neem oil to four parts sulphur.

When applying neem oil, you should always make sure that the dog does not get the oil in its eyes, nose or mouth. In addition, the oil should not be used too often or too much, as this can lead to skin irritation or allergic reactions. You should always test the tolerance of the oil on a small area before applying it to a large area.