NEEM

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is one of the most revered trees in India. It is found everywhere in India. It is common to see Neem trees growing on either side of the roads, in fields, in courtyards and in gardens. Neem has miraculous medicinal and curative properties and has been used in traditional system of medicine since ages. It is a major ingredient of the ayurvedic medicines. About 150 compounds are obtained from different parts of the Neem tree. Neem tree is popularly known as Nature’s Drugstore.

All the parts of the tree- leaves, flowers, seeds and bark are used in different medical preparations. Neem compounds are anti bacterial, anti fungal, anti inflammatory, anti pyretic, anti diabetic, anti tumour, anti malarial and diuretic. Extensive research on Neem has proved its efficacy with no side effects. A paste of Neem leaves with multani mitti makes an excellent face pack. It invigorates the skin and cures boils, acne and pimples. A paste of neem leaves is applied on the scalp to control dandruff and to get rid of lice. Neem leaves are boiled in water and used as herbal bath. It prevents infections in cuts, wounds and abrasions. During summers, it provides relief in prickly heat. Neem bath is also given to the patients recuperating from chicken pox.

Tender leaves of Neem chewed on an empty stomach in the morning help in getting rid of intestinal worms. Neem is a great blood purifier. It bolsters immunity of the body. It builds antibodies and increases the resistance of the body against diseases. It improves circulation and is supposed to be vitaliser. A common tradition believed to be started by king Vikramaditya and practiced till date is to eat Neem leaves with pepper, salt and cumin seeds in the morning on empty stomach on the day of the Hindu New Year.  It keeps one free of diseases round the year. Neem leaves are a great insect repellant. Dry leaves are kept in the cupboards, granaries and other storage areas to ward off insects. Dry leaves are burnt to keep the mosquitoes away. It is an age old practice to chew a twig of Neem called daatun, to clean the teeth. It maintains good oral health and arrests bad breath.

Neem fruit nimboli is soft, sweet and slightly bitter. Ripe fruits are very good for digestion. Neem oil is obtained from the seeds and kernel.. Neem oil is used extensively in shampoos, creams, toothpaste, soaps and skin ointments. The by product called Neem cake or khali   is used as a natural fertilizer in organic farming. It improves soil micro flora and is a very potent pesticide. Neem tree is also very good for the environment. It purifies air and stops desertification. Neem products are used in medicines for curing fever, skin problems, ulcers, diabetes, urinary tract disorders, asthma, bronchitis, gastrointestinal problems, colds and cough.

In Indian household, Neem tree is held in high esteem and is considered to be a sacred tree. It is rightly called “The Panacea for all diseases”.