Ayurveda and Science

Neem/नीम/Nimba/Margosa Tree/Azadirachta Indica

AYURVEDIC & MEDICINAL PLANTS

Neem
Hindi Name: Neem
Sanskrit Name: Nimba
English Name: Margosa Tree
Latin Name: Azadirachta indica A. Juss
A large branched evergreen tree growing in fallow lands. It is also cultivated as an avenue and roadside tree in almost every corner of the country. The tree is kept in high esteem in Indian mythology. Its generic epithet Azadirachta has been derived from

Uses Of Neem / Azadirachta Indica

Neem is considered a boon for mankind by nature. Use of Neem has been recommended by Ayurveda for a wide range of diseases. Such usage are attributed to its purification effect on blood. Scientific research on Neem demonstrates it to be a Panacea. It is suggested to be an antibacterial, anthelmintic, antiviral, anticancer and more importantly Immunomodulatory agent.

There are numerous benefits and uses of neem leaves as follows:

  • Treats Acne

    Neem has an anti-inflammatory property which helps reduces acne. Azadirachta Indica also helps reduce skin blemishes.

  • Nourishes Skin

    Neem is a rich source of Vitamin E which help repair damaged skin cells.

  • Treats Fungal Infections

    Neem has scientifically proven antifungal property which helps treat fungal infections.

  • Useful in Detoxification

    Neem can prove useful in detoxification both internally and externally. Consumption of neem leaves or powder stimulates kidneys and liver increasing the metabolism and eliminating the toxins out of the body. Externally, neem scrubs or paste can be used to remove germs, bacteria, dirt, etc from your skin preventing rashes and skin diseases.

  • Increases Immunity

    Neem is known for its antimicrobial and antibacterial effects. These properties play a huge role in boosting immunity.

  • Insect & Mosquito Repellent

    You can burn a few neem leaves to ward off the insects. This is also effective against different types of mosquitoes . From all the home remedies for malaria , neem is the best for treating the early symptoms of malaria.

  • Prevents Gastrointestinal Diseases

    Neem's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract which helps reduce a series of diseases like constipation, stomach ulcer, flatulence, etc.

  • Treats Wounds

    Neem leaves have an antiseptic property which is why it is used to heal wounds.

  • Reduces Dandruff

    Neem is extensively used in shampoos and conditioners. Azadirachta Indica has antifungal and antibacterial properties which help eliminate dandruff and strengths your hair.

  • Reduces Joint Pain

    Application of neem oil or extract on the affected area can help reduce pain and discomfort. Hence it is widely used for treating arthritis.

  • Exfoliates skin

    Neem is an excellent exfoliant. It helps remove dead cells from the surface of the skin which will help prevent the growth of blemishes.

Chemical Composition

Neem plant contains flavonoids kemferol, quercetin and myricetin. The trunk bark contains nimbin, nimbinin, nimbosterol, tannins and a bitter principle margosine.

Effect on
Doshas

Balances kapha and pitta.
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