Sourced from the seeds of Azadirachta indica cultivated across India, this essential oil is extracted through cold pressing or steam distillation, depending on the desired profile. Its composition includes sulfur-containing compounds and complex bitter principles such as azadirachtin, which contribute to its distinctive aroma. The opening is strong, earthy, and pungent, with a dense, slightly acrid character that is not conventionally aesthetic. Its volatility is low, but its persistence is significant. The profile remains heavy and grounded throughout its evolution. In perfumery, neem is rarely used for olfactory appeal but serves as a functional additive, introducing raw, earthy depth and authenticity in niche, natural, and therapeutically positioned formulations.
Azadirachta indica
| CAS number | 8002-65-1 |
|---|---|
| Origin | India |
| Applications | Agriculture, Personal care, Cosmetics, Soaps, Haircare, Herbal formulations, Natural pest-control |
| Organoleptic Properties | Strong, earthy, pungent, garlic-like, bitter, and sulfurous with characteristic herbal undertones |
| Form | Liquid |
| Density | 0.900 – 0.930 |
|---|---|
| Crop Season | June to August |
| Part Used | Seeds (kernels) |
| Method of Extraction | Steam Distillation, Cold-Pressed |
| Shelf Life | 12–24 months (under proper storage conditions) |
| Appearance | Light brown to dark brown |
| Optical Rotation | Typically not standardized / variable |
| Refractive Index @ 20°C | 1.460 – 1.490 |
| Chemical Constituents | Azadirachtin, Nimbin, Salannin, Gedunin, fatty acids, sulfur-containing compounds |
|---|
* Displaying official Indian national boundaries. Sourced responsibly.