Native to India, the neem tree has the botanical name Azadirachta indica. For centuries, people in India used its leaves, seeds and bark for many purposes. Neem leaves have both insecticidal and medicinal properties. The National Center for Biotechnology Information reports that neem leaves contains substances that have a vast range of medicinal properties that include antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic uses. Although most people may buy these products, you can also make neem leaf extracts at home as pest repellents or for personal use.
Neem Leaf Extract
Mash the neem leaves in the mortar and pestle then place the mashed neem leaves in the container or pot.
Add the water and cover the container/pot with a lid.
Allow the mixture to steep for at least three days.
Use the strainer to remove the leaves from the mixture. The liquid or extract should be clear.
Dilute one-half or 1 L of the liquid with approximately 8 L of water in another container, then add the liquid soap.
Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray plants in your garden to control pests or insects.
Store the remainder of the extract in a dark bottle in the refrigerator. Be sure to use the remaining neem spray extract within the next few days.
Diluted Neem Leaf Extract for Pets
Grind 1 kg of neem leaves in a mortar with a pestle.
Add 5 to 6 L of water and let the mixture steep overnight.
Strain the mixture with a cheese cloth and use the resulting liquid as a pet shampoo.