Neem: Health Benefits, Uses & Side Effects

A tree has various parts, including leaves, bark, seeds, and oils, and so does neem. All these parts of neem trees majorly contain substances such as azadirachtin, Nimbin, Nimbidin, and quercetin. These substances exhibit antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.

Neem leaves consist of flavonoids, tannins, and saponins. Neem seed extract, i.e., neem oil, contains fatty acids like palmitic and linoleic acids. Apart from the aforementioned compounds, neem also contains varied vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, calcium, phosphorus, and iron.

Let us look at the given table to understand the nutritional value of neem:

As we can see above, neem trees, especially neem leaves, are high in mineral content and very useful for human utility. The properties and composition support the neem tree’s reputation as a natural remedy and health ally.

With that, we will move to the next section to see the benefits of neem and how we can utilise it to the fullest.

Hair Care Benefits

Your hair and scalp need as much attention as your skin does. However, we usually tend to ignore hair care. Some of the issues related to the scalp include dandruff, lice, slow hair growth, and weak roots. At the same time, hair problems include split ends, lack of moisture, dryness, breakage, and weakness.

Neem is a powerful tool for scalp and hair health. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties help your scalp and hair overcome all the aforementioned issues. The acidic content in neem oil helps your hair gain strength, restore moisture, reduce hair thinning, and promote hair growth.

As a result, you will find numerous neem-infused hair care products, like shampoo, hair masks, neem oil, and conditioners.

Skincare Benefits

One of the most well-known benefits of neem is its skincare benefits. The anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties are highly beneficial in treating skin problems like acne, pimples, eczema, and dryness.

Neem compounds not only improve your skin’s condition but also heal problems like irritation, redness, and allergy rashes. Be it a medical cream made of neem oil and leaves or a homemade paste of neem leaves, it works wonders on your skin issues.

You will easily find neem soaps, face washes, body washes, face masks, and body scrubs made of neem. These skincare products monetise the anti-ageing and healing properties of neem leaves and oil.

Oral Health

Traditionally, Indians and some other Asian countries used neem twigs and small branches to clean their teeth and mouths. Chewing on the twigs prevents tooth decay, strengthens gums, treats bad breath, and cleans teeth.

Today, you will observe that a majority of leading toothpaste and mouth-freshener brands in India and around use neem as their brand product. These dental health products leverage the antibacterial properties of neem to fight all cavities and gingivitis.

Highly Detoxifying

While detoxifying in nature, neem also supports and accelerates the body's natural detoxification process. Consuming neem leaves or the juice made from these leaves will help purify the blood by removing toxins and enhance overall health.

It improves health by enhancing liver functions, eliminating harmful substances, restoring the balance of nutrients, and increasing immunity. These benefits of neem help the body become resilient to infections and also improve skin health.

Preventative Measure

As mentioned earlier, neem contains antioxidants. These substances aid your body’s process of combating free radicals, promoting cell generation. The antimicrobial and antibacterial properties help fight infections and bad bacteria. Neem is also anti-inflammatory, which is a useful tool for arthritis and inflammation.

It boosts your immunity, prevents common illnesses, strengthens defence mechanisms, and manages chronic conditions like arthritis and diabetes.

Other Utilities

Other uses and benefits of neem include:

• Insecticides

• Oil spray for plants

• Oil for pets (cats and dogs)

• Lubricants

• Fertilisers

• Neem glue or resin

• Floor cleaners

• Dishwashing soaps and solutions

• Capsules and tablets for overall health

Diabetes

The medicinal use of leaves of neem for diabetes stems from its hypoglycemic properties. Diabetes results in hyperglycemia, which means high blood sugar levels. Having optimal blood sugar levels is paramount for a healthy body.

Neem leaves and oil extract can restore and regulate blood sugar levels. Neem’s detoxifying process helps improve the insulin sensitivity of your body and reduces the glucose absorption in the intestines.

Liver Health

Neem for liver health is a great medicine. Your body detoxifies itself of unnecessary toxins, and the liver is a huge part of this detoxification process. As mentioned above, neem accelerates and supports this natural process by supporting liver functions.

Neem contains potent antioxidants that scavenge free radicals and minimise liver oxidation damage. It promotes bile secretion cell generation and reduces inflammation, supplementing liver health and mitigating the risk of any liver-related disorder.

Reproductive Health

Neem can work as an anti-fertility medication without harming one’s sexual health. The neem extracts contain spermicidal properties that can reduce the chances of conception for both men and women. It can lower the fertility of a person without affecting their sexual desires or libido. The antimicrobial properties might also prevent certain sexually transmitted diseases.

Combats Malaria and Dengue

Neem makes a valuable natural remedy for fighting mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever. Neem leaves extract contains bioactive compounds that exhibit inhibitory effects against the growth and spread of parasites, viruses, and infections.

While neem extract cannot act as a standalone treatment for malaria and dengue, it can boost the process by accompanying conventional antimalarial and antiviral treatment. Neem might reduce the duration of the ailment along with its severity.

Enhances Gastric Health

Gastrointestinal health is closely related to your digestive system. If you have digestive issues, you are more likely to face gastral problems. In case of indigestion, inflammation, or gases, you can consume neem extract or paste. These contain bioactive compounds that enhance your defence mechanism, reduce oxidative stress, and improve digestion.

If you incorporate neem tea into your diet, you can alleviate gastric inflammation, prevent digestive and gastric issues, and promote peptic ulcer healing.

Skin Diseases

Having a pimple or two is not an issue. However, skin diseases like acne, eczema, fungal infection, and psoriasis can deeply affect your skin’s health. Neem contains antimicrobial and antifungal properties that deal with infections and other skin-related issues. Dermatologists recommend neem-infused creams and serums to improve your skin health.

Moreover, doctors also recommend washing your face with neem water when you have chickenpox. It reduces the burning sensation, reduces the after-effects, and heals your skin really well.

Cleans Intestines

Your intestines help your bodily functions by aiding the excretion process, making them an extremely important organ of the digestive system. One can experience parasite infestation in the form of tapeworms and hookworms. These can cause diarrhoea, constipation, and severe stomach ache.

The bioactive content in neem promotes intestinal health by expelling these intestinal parasites. Since it detoxifies your body, it also participates in the digestive system. It not only reduces the oxidation stress but also facilitates bowel movement, thanks to its antifungal and antimicrobial properties.

Improves Kidney Health

Your kidney plays an important role in the overall health of your body. It is essential to keep your kidney healthy and prevent any problems. However, if you experience urinary issues or tissue damage, you can use neem to heal it.

You can observe multiple positive effects of neem leaves on kidney health. The antioxidant properties of neem help your body fight the oxidation stress your kidney experiences. Along with that, the anti-inflammatory content in neem mitigates renal inflammation and toxin-related dangers to your liver.

• Each person is different, and each body reacts differently to the same thing. The above uses and benefits are observed in a majority of people, and hence, can be proven to be true in most cases. However, one can experience a totally different condition. As a result, neem might cause an allergic reaction in some people.

• Overconsumption of neem can cause kidney stones. This is because neem has high-oxalate contents, resulting in oxalate crystal formation. Moderate consumption of neem, however, does not cause any issue whatsoever.

• Excess neem consumption can also prevent pregnancy. If you are trying to conceive, it is advised not to consume neem more than prescribed. You are also advised against consuming neem if you are pregnant or lactating.

Neem leaves can be bitter for anyone’s liking. One would prefer to sweeten it a bit if not prescribed otherwise. However, it is very easy to improve your gut health, clear your skin, and lighten your mood with a sweet cup of neem tea.

• All you need is 3-4 dried neem leaves (not more), 2 tablespoons of honey, and a cinnamon stick.

• Add water to your teapot.

• Add the neem leaves and cinnamon stick to the water.

• Let the concoction boil well and reduce in quantity.

• Strain it into your favourite cup.

• Add 2-3 tablespoons of honey to sweeten the neem water.

• Drink while it is warm, and enjoy the goodness.

This botanical wonder, Azadirachta Indica, offers a myriad of health benefits. Consuming neem tea or extract periodically and incorporating neem into your diet and lifestyle can also prevent numerous issues. It improves health in multiple areas, including skin, hair, gut, liver, and wellness.

As you count the benefits, be aware of its side effects as well. It is recommended to take neem only in the amount prescribed to you. With the right usage, you can enjoy all the uses and benefits of neem and lead a healthy, secure life!

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What is the ideal climate and water quantity for a neem tree?

The ideal climate for a neem tree ranges from tropical to subtropical, with high temperatures. Neem trees are drought-resistant, but they require an optimal level of rainwater or water supply nonetheless.

How long does it take for a neem tree to mature?

An average neem tree starts bearing fruits at the age of 3 to 5 and becomes fully mature at 10.

How and where to plant a neem tree?

If you want better results, plant the neem tree in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. You must plant the sapling or seed deep inside the soil, so dig an adequate hole accordingly. Plant it at least 4-6 metres away from other trees and structures to let the roots flourish and grow.

What are the appropriate ways to store neem seeds?

Neem seeds can become mouldy if they are stored in the wrong conditions. To prevent this, use airy containers, such as jute sacks or baskets. Store the seeds in a cold space and dry area.

Disclaimer: This is a general guide on Neem: Health Benefits, Uses & Side Effects. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. It is advisable to consult a qualified health professional for treatment in severe cases.