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Neem oil comes from the Neem tree, an
evergreen tree found in both India and Burma invested with
medicinal qualities. Most recently, neem oil has been found to
be a very powerful spermicide- able to kill sperm within 30
seconds of contact. Trials on lab animals showed that a small
amount of the oil in the uterus of the animal could provide
contraceptive protection for up to 180 days. Further study
involving the Indian Army and soldier's families provided
validation of the initial laboratory claims.
Additionally, the oil has not been
associated with any of the negative side effects common to
many vaginal contraceptive creams and it has shown promise as
emergency contraception. Scientists in India are working to
develop a contraceptive cream for public use, however as of
now the cream is not yet available in the U.S. Neem oil has
not yet been processed through FDA safety and efficacy
standards required before it can be used for medical purposes
in the US. We can expect to see more studies over the next few
years, and Well Woman will keep you informed of the latest
developments.
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