About Us The NEEMTEAM evolved out of personal experience. With two young children of school age, it was not long before the problem of head lice reared its' head. Bad publicity surrounding the use of chemical treatments deterred me from purchasing first line 'over the counter' treatments, and I opted to try tea tree oil and shampoo. When this failed, further investigation yielded options such as a battery powered electronic 'zapper comb' (which supposedly breaks the leg of the nit, preventing it from being able to move), an enzyme based shampoo (encourages a 'moult' at the wrong stage of the insects life-cycle, causing death), and finally, in desperation when all these failed, we reluctantly resorted to the many brands of chemical treatments available.
Every plan failed, and we became experts in the field of the head lice life cycle - the appearance of the 'nits' and different stages of the lice as they hatch and grow to maturity. We spent hours sitting under spotlights, with a nit-comb, physically trying to remove the source of the problem, for as long as the tolerance levels of a young child would allow. We became adept at inventing games which involved sitting at the kitchen table for long periods. Interestingly, throughout the weeks and months, only one member of our family was affected - despite close contact between siblings and plenty of reassuring cuddles from mum and dad to help avoid the 'unclean' feeling that the sufferer experiences. In the same way that some of us seem to attract biting midges, so too, it seems - the common head louse has preferred hosts on which to set up base camp.
After about eighteen months, it seemed the only option was to break the news to our daughter that her beautiful head of long, thick, lustrous hair - would have to be cut in order to eliminate the problem once and for all.
Then, we had a breakthrough. We spotted some information given in an alternative health column, recommending the use of Neem for eradicating head lice. Within a few days of commencing treatment, the problem had vanished! We were truly amazed - and hugely relieved that this horrible episode had ended. We have shared this advice with many other parents in a similar position, and have only received positive feedback from all of them.
Having come from a scientific background, I was intrigued to discover more about Neem, and began my own research project.
A veritable 'journey of discovery' had begun! Although the Western world has been largely unaware of Neem, Indian culture has been reaping the benefits for over 4000 years! Not only was Neem recognised for its ability to perform as a naturally 'soft' pesticide, it had many and numerous benefits to human health, with antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
Inclusion in creams and body lotions has been found to sooth eczema and psoriasis, whilst internal supplements enhance overall health, boost immune system response, balance metabolism and support healthy bowel function.
Now we had a mission!
We felt sure that many people in the UK would be receptive to the idea of an herbal therapy embracing a wide range of common ailments - avoiding the use of harsh chemicals, antibiotics, and steroids so often prescribed. Previously, there has been no alternative available. However, it seemed that most of the suppliers were based either in India or the United States. Very few companies were promoting Neem in the UK.
We decided, if possible, to source a range of tried and tested formulations which adhered to the standards demanded in the UK ie. Quality Assurance, Organic or ethically produced raw materials, and avoidance of unnecessary chemical additives where possible.
As the Neem Tree originates from India, we looked firstly at this option. Sadly we do not feel confident at this time that packaging and quality control measures meet Western expectations.
Turning our attention to the US, we discovered Organix-South
Founded by Autumn Blum, the ethos of this company was almost identical to our own.
Autumn graduated in Chemistry (specialising in environmental studies), and began work in a traditional cosmetic company. After crossing paths with someone interested in formulating a Neem Oil shampoo, she began researching Neem herself. The company she was working for did not share her enthusiasm for such an alternative product. Disillusioned, Autumn was at the point of changing the direction of her career completely. However, she could not shrug off the passion for Neem which had now taken hold.
Months of research followed. Neem Oil was a very difficult component to work with, and sourcing ethically wildcrafted and Certified Organic Neem in India and Mexico finally resulted in two bona fide sources of supply.
Organix-South was founded in May 1998, offering contract manufacturing to companies wanting to introduce Neem products.
Having gained mastery over a variety of these products, Autumn introduced her own retail line in 2001. The company now offers over 20 products, with plans to expand the range over the next few years.
Autumn stated 'I felt there was a need for a complete family of products, all displayed together, that could properly educate the public about the tremendous uses and benefits of Neem.......It has been tremendously rewarding, my customers tell me stories of how Neem has helped their lives.....we are the primary manufacturer of premium Neem products in the United States'.
Our quest to find a like-minded supplier coincided with Autumn having reached the point where she wanted to expand into the UK. Happily we have now been appointed the sole UK distributor for the Organix-South product range.
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