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| Photo Credit: Prabhupuducherry |
This powerhouse herb is one of the core herbs used in Ayurvedic medicine, and has become a household favorite among many herbalists and "natural" companies.
Neem is a tree that grows in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Jamaica, Honduras, Guatemelo, Mexico, China, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and throughout Africa. It belongs to the Maliaceae family and its scientific name is Azadiracta indica, which looks similar to the Chinaberry plant.
Neem can be taken both externally and internally, but read labels to determine which usage is best, or seek a qualified natural health professional if in doubt. Neem is great for treating problem skin thanks to its anifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antiviral properties (I know... a lot of anti's, huh). Translation, neem helps to cleanse and improves the function of the immune-system. Here's a list of neem benefits:
Neem Oil: (external use, usually)
Strengthens nails
evens skin tone
clears skin ailments (eczema, psoriasis, acne, boils, rosacea and dryness)
stimulates hair growth
treats dandruff
treats chicken pox
treats warts
heals ringworm
improves oral health
heals poison ivy
Neem Leaves: (internal use, usually)
regulates diabetes
enhances blood circulation (neem leaves helps regulate blood circulation)
treats gum disease
treats ulcers
improves liver function
birth control (if you are pregnant or attempting to become pregnant do not take neem)
HIV/AIDS (seek a qualified professional if seeking natural treatment using neem)
treats pink eye
treats pesticide/insecticide
anti-cancer (seek a qualified professional if seeking natural treatment using neem)
Alright, I'm gonna stop here because listing all of neem's great qualities can go on and on.
Many natural health companies use neem as the base ingredient in toothpaste; because of its antibacterial and antiseptic properties. I've tried quite a few natural toothpaste brands, but here's a link to my favorite neem toothpaste by Himalaya.
As you see above, neem helps remedy some serious ailments; but please, please, please seek a qualified natural health professional to guide you as to how best to use. Depending on the ailment you're treating would determine the part of the plant you'd need to use. For instance, you may need to use the leaves, bark or stem in either powder, oil, leaf form or another method. As noted above in most instances the oil form is usually used externally, as the leaves are used internally in most cases.
Neem can be used in a variety of ways for an inumerable amount of ailments. This is a brief intro into the world of neem, by all means please keep researching on your own.
For best results, seek a health care professional especially when using for babies and children. Neem is an all natural product and there are no known side effects for using. It is safe for babies and children, but if there are any reactions discontinue use.
