Neem is considered a wonder herb and the tree is a native to the Indian subcontinent. The tree is now grown widely in the Middle East also and has many important health benefits like its ability to treat dandruff, soothe irritation, skin protection, and enhancement of the immune system, reduce inflammation, speed wound healing, increase the health of the hair and scalp. Maintain sexual organ health and treatment of various form of cancer and manage and treat diabetes. The leaves, barks, skin etc are the parts used of the neem tree and each part of the tree has different roles to play in the health of human beings.
The scientific name of neem is Azadirachta indica and it comes from the mahogany family of trees, Meliaceae. This tree grows fast and it has broad spreading leaves and this can drop quickly in the event of drought to protect the rest of the trees. This quality of the neem trees makes it very flexible to demanding surroundings. Neem trees are generally found in tropical and subtropical regions and it flourishes there in abundance. The flowers are white in colour and fragrant and the fruit of the tree is a small drupe with bittersweet pulp.
Many Uses
Neem leaves are very much in demand in the subcontinents because it can be used for many different things. The oil extracted from the leaves of Neem can be used for many medicinal uses and the leaves can be dried and used as an herb or even as a pest repellent. The shoots and flowers of the Neem tree are used in many cooking applications in many parts of India. The composition of organic compounds and beneficial components found in the Neem is a unique composition. This makes the products made from Neem very popular in herbal remedies and alternative medicines.
The versatility of the plant in Indian culture is important and it is used in products like tea and garnishes to skin salves and herbal supplements. Neem has strong antibacterial possibilities and one of the popular known benefits of Neem oil, leaves and tea and every other derivative of Neem is its strong antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities. The products made from Neem can be used both internally and externally and this makes Neem a general tonic for immune system and as a simple way to keep the overall health better protected. Neem is popularly used for different skin conditions but its effects are much more than that.
Antifungal and Antibacterial
Neem is a popular ingredient in shampoos and scalp cleansers because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties. It helps the skin to remain hydrated and remove dandruff while strengthening the hair and improving the health of hair follicles due to its antioxidant contents. Neem is also used in traditional medicine to boost the growth of hair and prevent male-pattern baldness. Neem has detoxifying effect on your body. You can use neem paste or leaves directly on the skin or consume Neem extracts in supplements or in any other form for the detoxifying effect.
Neem has the ability to stimulate the liver and kidneys and it helps to eliminate toxins quickly and optimizing the metabolic activities of the body. Neem paste can help neutralize the chemical pathogens or dirt which is accumulating in the body and cause irritation and illness. It destroys all the detritus accumulations which happen on the skin every day like germs, microbes, dust and grime. Neem is ideal for treating acne which is a widespread and challenging skin condition which is happening all over the world. Neem paste is good for eliminating the grease and bacteria which is the main cause of acne.
Astringent Properties
The antibacterial nature of the neem helps to prevent further breakout of acne and the antioxidants helps in minimizing the scars caused due to the acne and keeps the skin looking fresh and clean. Neem has astringent properties which reduces the chances of skin sagging or showing signs of wrinkles and aging. The fatty acid in the Neem oil and high presence of vitamin E helps the skin not to sag and look aged. Neem is directly connected with a reduction in inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract which helps to reduce ulcers and wide range of other intestinal problems like constipation, bloating and cramping. Neem is also used as a quick healing antidote for issues like stomach flu and infection which can destroy beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Research and studies has shown that the high antioxidants present in neem reduce the chances of developing some types of cancer. This is because of the presence of antioxidants in neem which neutralizes free radicals which is the by product of cellular metabolism which causes cancer and chronic diseases in the body. The antioxidants also keep the cardiovascular system clean and unobstructed prevents heart related health issues.
Perfect Face Mask
Neem paste works as a perfect exfoliant when used as a face mask and it can also shrink pore size which will help prevent the blemishes and pimples. Neem paste or diluted neem oil can be applied on the fungus infected areas of the body included Athlete’s foot. The antifungal effect of the neem’s active organic ingredients is fast and efficient and it leaves the immune system and skin unharmed. The chemical components present in neem make effective use of insulin receptor function and make sure that the body receives the correct amounts of insulin to protect against the development of diabetes. It can also help the diabetic minimizing the dependence of insulin therapy.
Neem can effectively treat malaria sysmptoms and minimise the danger of the disease. Neem is also popular as an ingredient in oral health products like tooth paste and similar products, especially in India. It eliminates the bacteria beneath the gums which causes periodontal diseases and bad breath. It is used in mouthwashes and toothbrushes also. The anti-inflammatory properties in the leaves of the neem plant helps people having problems of arthritis. The paste or oil can be applied on the joints and muscles affected by arthritis and it reduce the pain and discomfort in a big way.