In Ayurveda, neem has been part of traditional remedies for more than 5000 years. The neem tree is undoubtedly a biological treasure that constitutes a very complete natural pharmacy.
What is neem used for?
In general, neem is antiviral and antibacterial, as well as stimulating the immune system and purifying the blood. It has alkaloids such as margosine and other active substances capable of effectively combating more than 60 common diseases and ailments, such as tuberculosis, measles, leprosy, malaria, diabetes, bronchitis, intestinal parasites, hypertension, arthritis , pyorrhea, sinusitis, syphilis, hemorrhoids, psoriasis, ringworm, ulcers, tumors and a very long etcetera.
And how exactly is neem used? Keep reading that we tell you.
How is neem used?
Uses of neem: the leaves
The leaves are used for many purposes. Specifically in Ayurveda, its leaves are used to treat vaata imbalances or neuromuscular pain.
By boiling them, they can be used to treat dandruff and to cure irritated or infected eyes. Grinding them into a paste, they can be applied to treat acne and to heal wounds, insect bites, and skin disorders such as eczema or psoriasis.
Uses of neem: the flowers
Usually parts of neem are bitter. Its leaves, however, are sweet. Both its appearance and its fragrance are reminiscent of jasmine and in South India it is very common to sprinkle them on many dishes as a garnish. They are usually eaten fresh, dried or powdered and are said to treat nausea, headache, eye and skin problems.
Uses of neem: the branches and bark
If you have been to India, you have surely seen people chewing neem twigs. For many years, it has been used for oral hygiene as it fights germs and bacteria, maintains alkaline levels in saliva, and also whitens teeth. The branches are also frayed to be used as dental floss.
Uses of neem: neem oil
Extracted from its seeds, neem oil is an excellent cosmetic ingredient in soaps, creams and hair remedies thanks to its nourishing and toning properties. It is also a good natural mosquito repellant (diluted with coconut oil).
It is clear that we will hardly find another plant resource as complete and versatile and with as many therapeutic applications as the neem tree. Originally from the arid mountain areas of India, it is currently cultivated in more than 80 countries in Asia, Africa and South America and its cultivation has begun to be experimented with in Europe. At the moment, the most common way to buy neem in Spain is in powder, capsules or oil.
