Neem has more than 100 separate compounds so scientists still have a long way to go in terms
of understanding how and why it works in many biological processes. One new discovery, however,
may explain why its so good for gray hair. Researchers of the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz in Germany and the University of
Bradford report that free oxygen radicals aka hydrogen peroxide are involved in the loss of hair
color. With advancing age, hydrogen peroxide builds up in larger amounts in the hair follicle and
ultimately inhibits the synthesis of the color pigment melanin, explains Professor Heinz Decker
of the Institute of Biophysics at Mainz University. The peroxide is a byproduct of normal cell
metabolism and is generated in small amounts throughout the human body. As we age, it becomes
harder and harder for our bodies to neutralize the free radicals in peroxide and it builds to
levels that bleach color from hair.
Neem, of course, is packed with bio-available antioxidants including glutathione that some
researchers call the master antioxidant. Neem has a long tradition of being used to treat graying
hair and perhaps this is a primary reason why it works. Personally, I think I have less gray hair today after using neem consistently over the last 10
years than I did when I was in college. Please let us know if you've noticed a difference in your
hair! | 
