According to the World Health Organization, about 80% of the population in the developing countries rely on traditional medicines, which usually includes plants and plant products. Neem one such tree that is being used in India for more than 4000 years for its many healing properties.
It helps in the management of various ailments such as skin infections, septic sores, infected burns and certain fungal infections that affects the human body.
All the parts of the neem tree are beneficial in different ways. Various soaps, lotions and shampoos made out of neem oil. Neem leaves are really effective in keeping mosquitoes at bay, improving liver function and balancing blood sugar levels. Adding neem leaves to lukewarm water and taking a bath is said to be effective in chickenpox. In fact, neem is also famously called using the Sanskrit name Aristha which means “reliever of sickness”. In Vedas, neem is referred to as “Sarva Roga Nivarini” meaning “the curer of all ailments”.
The neem tree is usually leafy and it can reach up to a height of about 75 feet. This tree usually grows in the tropical and subtropical regions. However, it is also grown on the southern Iran islands. Rich green in colour, neem tree can easily be found growing along roadsides in India.
It might interest you to know that neem isn’t just an Indian marvel. It is well known in Africa too, where it is popularly known as “Mahorbany”. According to African beliefs, neem can cure about forty major and minor diseases.
Apart from being a medicinal marvel, neem also plays a vital role in cuisines. It can both be boiled and fried to be used in curries and dishes. In Myanmar, neem leaves are used in salads. And the best part is that they remain fresh for a couple of months if they are frozen. What better way to hide this bitter herb in a tasty recipe?
Some basic facts about neem:
- Botanical name: Azadirachta indica
- Family: Meliaceae
- Sanskrit name: Nimba or Aristha
- Parts used: Almost all the parts of the neem tree can be used - the seeds, leaves, fruits, flowers, oil, roots and the bark.
- Native region and geographical distribution: Neem tree is mainly cultivated in the Indian subcontinent - India, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Bangladesh.
- Uses: The neem tree has numerous medicinal properties. Neem leaves are used to treat leprosy, eye disorders, intestinal worms, upset stomach, skin ulcers and blood vessels, fever, diabetes and liver problems. Neem oil is also an effective contraceptive.
- Interesting fact: It is believed that if someone plants three or more neem trees in their lifetime, they would go to heaven.