Neem is a tree native to India and other parts of Southeast Asia. The bark, leaves, and seeds of the neem tree are used to make medicine. Neem has a long history of use in Ayurvedic and traditional Indian medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including infections, inflammation, and skin disorders.
It is a hardy, drought-resistant tree that can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers well-drained, sandy soils with a pH between 6 and 7.5. It is also sometimes grown as an ornamental tree or for shade in subtropical and tropical regions.
It is particularly common in the dry regions of India, such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, and southern states like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. It can also be found in the northwestern states of Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. Additionally, it is also found in the central and eastern regions of India, such as Madhya Pradesh and Orissa. The tree is well adapted to grow in different climates, soil conditions and also grown as a crop in some regions of India. It can be found in both wild and cultivated in different states of India.
Neem has a wide range of medicinal properties and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Some of the benefits of neem include:
- Antimicrobial properties: Neem has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, making it useful in treating infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Neem has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body, making it useful in treating conditions such as arthritis and eczema.
- Skin care: Neem is commonly used in skin care products due to its ability to nourish and moisturize the skin, as well as its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Pest control: Neem oil is often used as a natural pesticide to protect crops from insects and other pests.
- Anticancer: Studies have shown that compounds in neem extract have anti-cancer properties and may be useful in treating certain types of cancer.
- Oral health: Neem twigs are used as a traditional toothbrush in some parts of India and found to be effective in promoting oral health.
- Kidney health: Neem has been traditionally used to support kidney health, and some studies have suggested it may be effective in treating kidney disease.
It's important to note that more research is needed to confirm the medicinal properties of neem and to understand proper dosage, administration and potential side effects.
There are several ways to consume neem, including:
- Neem leaves: Fresh or dried neem leaves can be consumed in the form of a tea by boiling them in water. Some people also chew fresh neem leaves to help with oral hygiene.
- Neem oil: Neem oil can be applied topically to the skin or scalp, or it can be taken orally as a dietary supplement.
- Neem supplements: Neem supplements are available in the form of capsules, tablets, and extracts. They can be consumed as per the recommended dosage on the label.
- Neem paste: A paste made from neem leaves can be applied to the skin to help with various skin conditions.
- Neem bark: Neem bark can be powdered and consumed in the form of a decoction.
- Neem flowers: Neem flowers can be consumed as a vegetable in some parts of India, either in the form of stir-fry or in soups and stews.
It is important to note that neem products should be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, as excessive consumption of neem products can cause side effects such as stomach upset and diarrhea. Also, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid consuming neem in any form as it may have an adverse effect on the fetus and nursing infant.
We at Live Organics Pvt. Ltd. supply ethically sourced Neem products i.e. powder, oil and seeds.
