Neem tree has a strong place in the world of medicine and wellness. Every part of the Neem plant can be used against various infectious diseases.
Neem can be taken orally and also be applied on the affected skin area to manage various skin problems like acne, pimples, skin rashes and skin allergies. It is also used to reduce the symptoms of psoriasis, eczema and ringworm infection.
Taking a Neem tablet after meals daily can be beneficial for diabetic patients as it may help lower blood sugar levels.
Neem oil can be applied to get rid of head lice and can also help manage wounds (like diabetic ulcers) in diabetic patients. Neem twigs, if used regularly, can help prevent dental problems like gingivitis, cavities and tooth decay.
It is advisable to avoid the consumption of Neem during pregnancy as it may cause a miscarriage.
In some cases, Neem might cause vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness and skin allergies if taken more than the recommended dosage[2-5][14][18][20][23].

What are the synonyms of Neem?

Azadirachta indica, Margosa Tree, Neem Tree, Indian Lilac, Picumardah, Aristah, Picumandah, Prabhadrah, Nim, Nimgaachh, Leemado, Turakbevu, Huchchabevu, Chikkabevu, Veppu, Aryaveppu, Aaruveppu, Kadunimba, Nimb, Neemo, Vempu, Veppu, Vemu, Vepa

What is the source of Neem?

Plant Based

Benefits of Neem

What are the benefits of Neem for Diabetic ulcers?

Modern Science View

A combination of Topical use of Neem oil and oral use of Turmeric powder capsule is effective for managing chronic non-healing wounds in case of diabetes. This is due to their angiogenic property (formation of new blood vessels) which helps in faster wound healing[5].

What are the benefits of Neem for Herpes labialis?

Modern Science View

Aqueous extract of Neem bark acts as a potent inhibitor of the virus entry as well as its attachment to the target cells. Thus, Neem bark extract is known to have potent antiviral activity against Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)[7].

What are the benefits of Neem for Contraception?

Modern Science View

Studies state that Neem might be effective in preventing pregnancy when used in the form of oil as a vaginal lubricant prior to sexual intercourse. This is due to its strong spermicidal activity. It is advisable to consult a doctor before using Neem as a contraceptive[23].

What are the benefits of Neem for Head lice?

Modern Science View

Neem might help in controlling head lice due to its insecticidal property. It acts by disrupting the life cycle of lice and prevents them from hatching eggs[23].
Tip:
1. Mix Neem oil with your shampoo in 1:3 ratio.
2. Wash your hair using this mixture.
3. Massage onto the scalp for at least 5 minutes.
4. Keep it for another 5-6 minutes.
5. Rinse off the shampoo using plain water.

Ayurvedic View

Neem has Tikta (bitter) and Ruksa (dry) quality which helps in controlling dandruff and head lice.

What are the benefits of Neem for Dental plaque?

Modern Science View

Neem might be useful in lowering the risk of dental plaque due to its antimicrobial property. Neem twig if used regularly can help prevent dental issues like gingivitis, cavities and tooth decay[2][14].
Tip:
1. Use Neem twig in place of your regular toothbrush to clean your teeth.
2. Rinse your mouth with plain water afterward.
3. Repeat daily.

Ayurvedic View

The Kashaya (astringent) property of Neem lowers the risk of bleeding gums and tooth decay when used on a daily basis.

What are the benefits of Neem for Preventing mosquito bites?

Modern Science View

Neem might be used as an insect repellent due to its insecticidal properties making it effective against various insects, mites and nematodes[23].
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Neem oil and mix with 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil in equal amounts and mix well.
2. Apply on your skin whenever you are stepping outside.

How effective is Neem?

Insufficient evidence

Contraception, Dental plaque, Diabetic ulcers, Head lice, Herpes labialis, Preventing mosquito bites, Psoriasis

Precautions when using Neem

Allergy

Modern Science View

Apply Neem to a small area first to test for possible allergic reactions. People who are allergic to Neem or its constituents should use it under doctor’s supervision.
Tip:
1. Neem leaves or bark paste should be used with rose water or honey if your skin is hypersensitive.
2. The juice of Neem leaves or Neem oil should be used with coconut or olive oil on scalp or skin due to its strong nature.

Recommended Dosage of Neem

Neem Juice - 1-2 teaspoons or as per your requirement.
Neem Oil - ½-1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
Neem Leaves - ½-1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
Neem Paste - ½-1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
Neem Powder - ½-1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.

How to use Neem

1. Neem-Rose water Pack
a. Take 1 teaspoon of Neem leaves or bark powder.
b. Add 1-2 teaspoons of rose water to form a paste.
c. Apply it all over your face and neck and wait for 10-15 minutes.
d. Wash thoroughly with tap water.
e. Use this pack 3 times a week to get relief from acne and blackheads[13].

2. Neem-Coconut oil
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Neem oil.
b. Add 1-2 teaspoons of coconut oil to it.
c. Apply to the scalp and massage well for 10-15 minutes.
d. Repeat thrice a week to control lice[10].

3. Neem fresh leaves or bark paste
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Neem paste.
b. Add 2 pinches of turmeric to it.
c. Apply evenly on your face and neck.
d. Keep for 5-10 minutes and then wash with lukewarm water.
e. Use this remedy twice a week to manage acne and uneven skin tone[14].

4. Neem twigs as a toothbrush
Use Neem twigs as a toothbrush (datoon) to clean teeth and maintain dental hygiene[18].

5. Neem Juice
a. Take 1-2 teaspoons of Neem juice.
b. Mix it with honey.
c. Apply it over the open wounds and eczema sites.
d. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day for effective wound healing and for antiseptic action[5].

Frequently asked questions

Q. Where can Neem be found in day to day life?

Modern Science View

Various forms of Neem are found in our day to day life:
1. Neem oil: Used as a component of facial and skin wash, scrubs and creams.
2. Neem Leaf Powder: Used in masks, washes, toners and peels.
3. Neem Cake: Used for scrubs.

Q. How to store Neem leaves?

Modern Science View

You can store Neem leaves in a cool and dry place for a week after washing the leaves and drying under the sun.

Q. How to store Neem oil?

Modern Science View

Store Neem oil in the refrigerator or in a cool and dark place for it to last longer. It can last for a year or two. It is always advisable to use Neem oil under medical supervision if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Q. Can Neem be used in aromatherapy?

Modern Science View

Neem flower oil is used in aromatherapy as it has a restorative and calming effect on the body. As a result, Neem flower oil is also an important ingredient in various creams and massage oils[18].

Q. Can you reuse a Neem twig?

Modern Science View

Although Neem twigs are known to help in maintaining good oral health, it should not be reused to avoid microbial contamination[17].

Q. What is the scientific name of Neem?

Modern Science View

The scientific name of Neem is Azadirachta indica.

References

1
The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
2
Alzohairy MA.Therapeutics role of Azadirachta indica (Neem) and their active constituents in diseases prevention and treatment.Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.2016.
3
Gupta SC, Prasad S, Tyagi AK, et al.Neem (Azadirachta indica): An Indian traditional panacea with modern molecular basis.Phytomedicine.2017;34:14-20
4
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-577/neem
5
Singh A, Singh AK, Narayan G, et al.Effect of Neem oil and Haridra on nonhealing wounds.Ayu.2014;35(4):398-403.
6
Heyman L, Haddad YH, Heyman SN, et al.Combined antioxidant effects of Neem extract, bacteria, red blood cells and Lysozyme: possible relation to periodontal disease.BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine.2017;17:399.
7
Hadigal S, Shukla D.Exploiting Herpes Simplex Virus entry for novel therapeutics.Viruses.2013;5:1447-1465.
8
Upadhyay RK.Anti-arthritic potential of plant natural products; its use in joint pain medications and anti-inflammatory drug formulations.International Journal of Green Pharmacy.2016;10(3):120-130.
9
Dubey S, Kashyap P.Azadirachta indica: A plant with versatile potential.RGUHS J Pharm Sci.2014;4(2):39-46.
10
Mehlhorn H, Abdel-Ghaffar F, Al-Rasheid KA, et al.Ovicidal effects of a Neem seed extract preparation on eggs of body and head lice.Parasitol Res.2011;109(5):1299-302.
11
Kumar VS, Navaratnam V.Neem (Azadirachta indica): Prehistory to contemporary medicinal uses to humankind.Asian Pac J Trop Biomed.2013;3(7):505-514.
12
Lakshmi T, Krishnan V, Rajendran R, et al.Azadirachta indica: A herbal panacea in dentistry – An update.Pharmacogn Rev.2015;9(17):41–44.
13
Yadav N, Singh A, Chatterjee A, et al.Evaluation of efficacy and safety of perfect face gel and perfact face tablets in management of acne.J Clin Exp Dermatol Res.2011;2(2).
14
Bhowmik D, Chiranjib, Yadav J, et al.Herbal remedies of Azadirachta indica and its medicinal application.J. Chem. Pharm. Res.2010;2(1):62-72.
15
Yanpallewar S, Rai S, Kumar M, et al.Neuroprotective effect of Azadirachta indica on cerebral post-ischemic reperfusion and hypoperfusion in rats.Life Sciences.2005;76(12):1325-1338.
16
Governa P, Baini G, Borgonetti V, et al.Phytotherapy in the management of diabetes: A review.Molecules.2018;23:105.
17
Mohapatra A, Kanchana P, Ranjan M, et al.Antimicrobial activity of Neem (Azadirachta Indica) leaf extracts.IJRAS.2014;1(2):2348-3997.
18
Verma D, Yadav RK, Rani B, et al.Multipurpose Neem (Azadirachta indica) for beguiling cures.IAAST.2017;8(3):96-101.
19
Thakurta P. Bhowmik P. Mukherjee S.Antibacterial, antisecretory and antihemorrhagic activity of Azadirachta indica used to treat cholera and diarrhea in India. J.Ethnopharmacol 2007;111(3):607-612.
20
Ulbricht CE.Natural Standard:Herb and Supplement Guide, An Evidence Based Reference.Elsevier;2010.
21
Okumu FO, Knols BGJ, Fillinger U.Larvicidal effects of a neem (Azadirachta indica) oil formulation on the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae.Malaria Journal.2007;6:63.
22
Sharma VP , Ansari MA , Razdan RK .Mosquito repellent action of neem (Azadirachta indica) oil.J Am Mosq Control Assoc.1993;9(3):359-360.
23
Sinha KC, Riar SS, Tiwary RS.Neem oil as a vaginal contraceptive.Indian J Med Res.1984;79:131-136.
24
Hashmat I, Azad H, Ahmed A.Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) - a nature's drugstore: an overview.Int J Biol Sci.2012;1(6):76-79.
25
Pandey G, Verma K, SinghM.Evaluation of phytochemical, antibacterial and free radical scavenging properties of Azadirachta indica (neem) leaves.Int J Pharm Pharm Sci.2014;6(2):444-447.
26
Anand N, Johnson MA, Arulsamy A.Antifungal properties of neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves extract to treat hair dandruff.E-International Scientific Research Journal.2010;2(3):244-252.
27
Khillare B, Shrivastav TG.Spermicidal activity of Azadirachta indica(neem) leaf extract.Contraception.2003;68(3):225-229.

Disclaimer

The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.