Neem is the common name for Azadirachta Indica, a mahogany tree native to southeast Asia; neem tea, neem oil and neem capsules are created from the leaves. Recent medical research has confirmed the health benefits of neem, including its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. In traditional uses, neem is often prescribed as a general tonic for many common complaints. Below are 5 uses of neem in alternative medicine and natural wellness.
Colds
Because of neem’s proven antiviral and antioxidant properties, neem tea is a suggested alternative remedy to help relieve the symptoms of the common cold and speed recovery. Neem tea contains antioxidants, calcium, fiber, iron, 10 amino acids and vitamin A, so the nutrients in neem tea also support a strong immune system.
Dental
Neem oil benefits dental health by fighting the bacteria that causes periodontal disease and tooth decay. Neem oil can be made into a mouthwash or massaged directly onto gums (always dilute the neem oil with water first). Neem powder can also be used to make a natural toothpaste. In India, neem sticks were traditionally used to clean teeth, which we now understand to work because of neem’s antiseptic properties.
Digestion
According to a 2003 study at the Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, neem tea is an effective remedy for indigestion and reduces the inflammation caused by ulcers. Neem expert Ellen Norten explains in her book Neem that neem tea benefits digestion because it removes bacteria and reduces the concentration of hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
Insects and Parasites
Neem is an effective insecticide, and neem oil can be used to repel insects or to remove current insect infestations such as fleas or lice. Neem is effective at fighting parasites, and neem tea is sometimes used as an alternative to quinine in malaria prevention, though it has not yet been fully tested. Neem may even be effective at fighting strains of malaria that are resistant to traditional medicines.
Rheumatism
According to the book Neem: India’s Miraculous Healing Plant, a daily dose of neem tea helps to lessen the pain associated with rheumatism. Topical neem oil creams can also provide relief. One of the benefits of neem is that it can act as an anti-inflammatory, which is why it can be used as an alternative remedy for rheumatism.
Other Facts About Neem
*There are benefits of neem oil for skin, hair and nails, and neem oil may be found in natural shampoos and skin creams.
*One of the traditional uses of neem is as a contraceptive, for both men and women. Keep this in mind if you are using neem and trying to conceive.
*When consumed in large quantities, neem may be toxic.
*Neem benefits heart health and has been shown to reduce cholesterol.
Sources:
- Neem: India’s Miraculous Healing Plant; Ellen Norten and Jean Pütz; 1999
- Organic Neem: The Miraculous Anti-Infection Herb; 2000
- Clinical studies on the effect of Neem (Azadirachta indica) bark extract on gastric secretion and gastroduodenal ulcer; Uday Bandyopadhyay, et al; 2004
- Neem “The Village Pharmacy”; Joseph Selvester; 1999
- Malaria Journal; Efficacy of local neem extracts for sustainable malaria vector control…
