Introduction:
Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem, nimtree or Indian lilac, is a tree in the mahogany family Meliaceae. It is one of two species in the genus Azadirachta, and is native to the Indian subcontinent and most of the countries in Africa. It is typically grown in tropical and semi-tropical regions. Neem leaf is used for leprosy, eye disorders, bloody nose, intestinal worms, stomach upset, loss of appetite, skin ulcers, diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular disease), fever, diabetes, gum disease (gingivitis), and liver problems. The leaf is also used for birth control and to cause abortions.
Consuming neem leaves helps in reduction in inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. Neem leaves also help in reducing ulcers and a wide range of other intestinal issues, such as constipation, bloating, and cramping if taken regularly. Neem leaves smoke treatment resulted in controlling bacterial growth on bacterial agar medium petri plates. Studied revealed that neem leaves smoke has antibactericidal properties and could be used for controlling airborne bacterial contamination in the residential premise.
Benefits of Neem Tree on Environment:
The large scale plantation of neem trees help to combat desertification, deforestation, soil erosion , Like other trees, it also brings other environmental benefits such as flood control, reduced soil erosion and less salination. Neem can avert environmental crisis in India and other tropical countries as it can be successfully used for rehabilitation of degraded ecosystems and waste lands. It can tolerate high to very high temperatures and does not tolerate temperature below 5 °C (41 °F). Neem is one of a very few shade-giving trees that thrive in drought-prone areas e.g. the dry coastal, southern districts of India, and Pakistan. In very dry areas the trees are planted on large tracts of land.
Benefits of Neem Tree at Home:
Neem leaf is used for leprosy, eye disorders, bloody nose, intestinal worms, stomach upset, loss of appetite, skin ulcers, diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular disease), fever, diabetes, gum disease (gingivitis), and liver problems. The leaf is also used for birth control and to cause abortions. Known for its multitude of medicinal benefits, neem is also known to be auspicious for the house. According to Vastu experts, planting a neem tree in the house garden brings peace and harmony to the residents and removes all the negativities and bitterness in relationships.
Benefits of Neem Tree on Health:
Neem leaf is used for leprosy, eye disorders, bloody nose, intestinal worms, stomach upset, loss of appetite, skin ulcers, diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular disease), fever, diabetes, gum disease (gingivitis), and liver problems.
The leaf is also used for birth control and to cause abortions. The bark is used for malaria, stomach and intestinal ulcers, skin diseases, pain, and fever. The flower is used for reducing bile, controlling phlegm, and treating intestinal worms. The fruit is used for hemorrhoids, intestinal worms, urinary tract disorders, bloody nose, phlegm, eye disorders, diabetes, wounds, and leprosy.
The seed and seed oil are used for leprosy and intestinal worms. They are also used for birth control and to cause abortions. There is some evidence that neem can lower blood sugar levels and might cause blood sugar to go too low. If you have diabetes and use neem, monitor your blood sugar carefully. It might be necessary to change the dose of your diabetes medication.
How does Neem work?
Neem contains chemicals that might help reduce blood sugar levels, heal ulcers in the digestive tract, prevent conception, kill bacteria and prevent plaque formation in the mouth.
Can we drink neem water daily?
Drinking neem juice on a regular basis will help you achieve a clean stomach and will improve your metabolism. Neem aids in the breakdown of body fat, which helps keep your weight in check. You can also make a concoction using neem, lemon and honey to further boost your metabolism.
Benefits of Neem tree on Skin:
Neem is best known for its anti-aging properties. Due to its antioxidant properties, neem protects the skin from harmful UV rays, pollution and other environmental factors. The vitamins and fatty acids in neem improve and maintain the elasticity of the skin, reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
To make a neem face mask, mix 2 teaspoons of neem powder with a little water to form a paste that is not too runny. Also, add a pinch of turmeric powder and apply it on your face. After 20 minutes rinse it off with lukewarm water. Here are some reasons to include neem in your daily routine. Clears acne: Using neem water as a skin toner regularly will help in clearing acne, scars, pigmentation and blackheads. Lightens skin blemishes: Apply a paste of neem powder, tulsi and sandalwood powder mixed with rose water, on your face. Neem leaves moisturise your skin and make it soft and supple. It’s anti-fungal properties also helps lighten scars and pigmentation that are caused by acne. Neem leaves are also known to cure pimples on your face.
Neem is an excellent remedy for treating oily skin and acne. It has been known to have potent antibacterial properties that can help get rid of acne as well as acne marks. Neem preparations are reportedly efficacious against a variety of skin diseases, septic sores, and infected burns. The leaves, applied in the form of poultices or decoctions, are also recommended for boils, ulcers, and eczema. The oil is used for skin diseases such as scrofula, indolent ulcers, and ringworm.
Benefits of Neem on hair:
Neem, known for its medicinal properties is an effective herb to treat hair loss. Due to its antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, neem is an excellent way to curb dandruff. It helps the hair follicles to become stronger and also encourages hair growth.
Boil some neem leaves in water and use it as a pre-shampoo rinse. Pour the mixture on your hair and massage your scalp gently for at least 10 minutes. Follow up with an anti-dandruff shampoo and use this rinse twice a week before your hair washes for a clean and healthy scalp. Neem has strong antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that can work together to help you get rid of dandruff. It can also prevent the regular onset of dandruff. Neem Oil has regenerative properties that support healthy cell division and stimulate hair follicle growth and function. It also helps in countering hair thinning caused by pollution, stress or medication. Therefore, regular application of the neem oil promotes thicker, stronger, and more luxurious hair growth.