Neem (Azadirachta indica)

Neem (Azadirachta indica) Health Benefits, Uses and Precautions 

Health benefits

Neem is a tree, it is scientifically called Azadirachta indica. The bark, leaves, and seeds are used to make medicines. The root, flower, and fruit are also used less frequently.

Neem leaves are a treasure trove of bioactive compounds that contribute to their medicinal properties. From wound healing to immune support, neem has been used in traditional medicine for centuries

Its leaf is used for leprosy, eye disorders, bloody nose, intestinal worms, stomach upset, loss of appetite, skin ulcers, diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular disease), fever, diabetes, gum disease (gingivitis), and liver problems. The leaf is also used for birth control and to cause abortions.

The bark is used for malaria, stomach and intestinal ulcers, skin diseases, pain, and fever.

The flower is used for reducing bile, controlling phlegm, and treating intestinal worms.

The fruit is used for haemorrhoids, intestinal worms, urinary tract disorders, bloody nose, phlegm, eye disorders, diabetes, wounds, and leprosy.

These plant twigs are used for cough, asthma, haemorrhoids, intestinal worms, low sperm levels, urinary disorders, and diabetes. People in the tropics sometimes chew its twigs instead of using toothbrushes, but this can cause illness; neem twigs are often contaminated with fungi within 2 weeks of harvest and should be avoided.

The seed and seed oil are used for leprosy and intestinal worms. They are also used for birth control and to cause abortions.

The stem, root bark, and fruit are used as a tonic and astringent.

Some people apply it directly to the skin to treat head lice, skin diseases, wounds, and skin ulcers; as a mosquito repellent; and as a skin softener.

Inside the vagina, the plant is used for birth control.

is also used as an insecticide.

• Antioxidant Properties: Neem contains over 140 active compounds that may provide numerous antioxidant effects.
• Antimicrobial and Antiparasitic: It has antimicrobial, antiparasitic, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and wound-healing properties

The chemical composition of neem leaves

Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves have a rich chemical composition with various bioactive compounds. Let’s explore some of the key constituents:

1. Proteins and Carbohydrates: Neem leaves contain approximately 7.1% protein and 22.9% carbohydrates. These nutrients contribute to the overall health benefits of neem.
2. Minerals: Neem leaves also provide essential minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.
3. Vitamins: Neem leaves are a source of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and carotene (a precursor to vitamin A).
4. Amino Acids: Neem leaves contain amino acids like glutamic acid, tyrosine, aspartic acid, alanine, proline, glutamine, and cystine¹1. These play important roles in various physiological processes.
5. Fatty Acids: Neem leaves contain several fatty acids, including dodecanoic, tetradecanoic, and elcosanic acids. Fatty acids are essential for cellular function and energy production.
6. Flavonoids: Neem leaves yield quercetin, a polyphenolic flavonoid known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. This may explain the curative effects of neem leaves on sores and scabies.
7. Limonoids: Neem leaves also contain limonoids, such as nimbin and its derivatives. These compounds exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including acting as pesticides and antifeedants.

Some Herbal Ways to Use Neem

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a versatile medicinal plant with a long history of use in traditional Asian medicine. All parts of the neem tree — leaves, flowers, seeds, fruit, roots, and bark — have been utilized for various health purposes. Let’s explore some of the potential benefits and uses of neem:

1. Wound Healing: Make a paste out of neem leaves and apply it to wounds or insect bites to promote healing.
2. Dandruff Treatment: Boil neem leaves in water until the water turns green. Use this water to rinse your hair after shampooing to combat dandruff.
3. Eye Care: Boil neem leaves and let the water cool completely. Use this water to wash your eyes if you’re experiencing irritation or redness.
4. Acne Solution: Grind neem leaves to make a paste and apply it to acne until it dries out. The paste can also help with eruptions, dark spots, and chronic ulcers.
5. Ear Ailments: Mix neem leaves with honey and use a few drops of this mixture to treat ear boils.
6. Skin Disorders: Combine turmeric with a paste of neem leaves for itching, eczema, ringworms, and mild skin diseases.
7. Immunity Booster: Crush neem leaves and consume them with water to help boost your immune system.
8. Oral Health: Chewing neem twigs can help in maintaining oral hygiene and preventing dental plaque.
9. Hair Health: Neem seed extract contains compounds that may fight parasites affecting the hair and skin, such as lice.
10. Liver and Kidney Detox: Neem leaves are believed to help detoxify the liver and kidneys, contributing to overall health

1. Antibacterial and Antifungal Effects:
   • Neem exhibits strong antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, making it a general tonic for the immune system.
   • It is associated with healing skin conditions, but its effects extend beyond that.
2. Hair Health:
   • Neem seed extract contains azadirachtin, which fights hair and skin parasites like lice.
   • Neem-based shampoos have been effective in killing head lice while being gentle on the skin.
   • Neem oil may also treat dandruff due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
3. Dental and Oral Health:
   • Chewing neem bark promotes oral hygiene.
   • Neem’s antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting properties may help treat gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth decay.
   • Test-tube studies suggest that neem minimizes bacteria’s ability to colonize teeth surfaces, reducing plaque formation.

Remember that while neem shows promise, further human studies are necessary to fully understand its benefits. Consult a healthcare professional before using neem for specific health concerns

Guidelines for using neem:

1. Neem Capsule/Tablet:
   • Take 1-2 tablets or capsules twice a day.
2. Neem Juice:
   • Consume 2-4 teaspoons of neem juice twice a day.
3. Neem Syrup:
   • Take 3-4 teaspoons of neem syrup twice a day after meals.
4. Neem is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when taken by mouth for up to 10 weeks, when applied inside the mouth for up to 6 weeks, or when applied to the skin for up to 2 weeks. When neem is taken in large doses or for long periods, it is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. It might harm the kidneys and liver.

Remember that individual responses to neem may vary, and it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using neem for specific health concerns. Also, avoid excessive consumption, especially in children, as reported deaths have occurred due to oral neem oil. Always prioritize safety and seek professional advice when needed

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Children: Taking neem seeds or oil by mouth is LIKELY UNSAFE for children. Serious side effects in infants and small children can happen within hours after taking neem oil. These serious side effects include vomiting, diarrhoea, drowsiness, blood disorders, seizures, loss of consciousness, coma, brain disorders, and death.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: the oil and the bark are LIKELY UNSAFE when taken by mouth during pregnancy. They can cause a miscarriage.

Not enough is known about the safety of need during breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

“Auto-immune diseases” such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other conditions: This plant might cause the immune system to become more active. This could increase the symptoms of auto-immune diseases. If you have one of these conditions, it’s best to avoid using neem.

Diabetes: There is some evidence that neem can lower blood sugar levels and might cause blood sugar to go too low. If you have diabetes and use neem, monitor your blood sugar carefully. It might be necessary to change the dose of your diabetes medication.

Reduced ability to have children (infertility): There is some evidence that neem can harm sperm. It might also reduce fertility in other ways. If you are trying to have children, avoid using neem.

Organ transplant: There is a concern that it might decrease the effectiveness of medications that are used to prevent organ rejection. Do not use neem if you have had an organ transplant.

Surgery: This plant might lower blood sugar levels. There is a concern that it might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using neem at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

References

neem health benefits and how to use

healthline.com

verywellhealth.com