5 Ways How Neem is Good For You

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The neem tree (botanical name Azadirachta indica) is traditionally referred to as the “village pharmacy” in rural India because of the many medicinal benefits of neem. almost every part of the tree – its leaves, seeds, bark, sap, fruit and twigs – have been used in traditional medicine to treat various kinds ailments and illnesses. Almost 2000 research papers have been written about neem and its resultant products, and commercial interest in the plant is alive and thriving. Here are a few ways in which neem products can promote health and wellness.

#1 Cures Colds

Neem has strong antiviral and antioxidant properties, which makes neem tea a good remedy for the common cold. Besides, neem tea is rich in antioxidants, amino acids, vitamin A, fiber, calcium and iron, and thus promotes the body’s immunity.

#2 Combats Skin Infections

Another health benefit of neem is its ability to combat skin infections. Neem has strong antibacterial properties. Therefore, rubbing your skin with neem paste, letting it dry and then washing the paste off with water eliminates much of the harmful bacteria on the skin. Neem paste can be obtained by grinding neem leaves and mixing this with a small amount of water. Another option is to take a few neem leaves and soak them overnight in water. Have a bath with this in the morning.

#3 Anti-cancer Properties

Neem can also help prevent cancerous cells from forming within the body. Consuming a small amount of neem paste (the size of a small marble) every day, can eliminate cancerous cells and keep them from spreading or growing.

#4 Helps With Digestive Disorders

Neem helps eliminate toxins and troublesome bacteria from the digestive tract. Traditionally, an extract of neem bark has been used as therapy against ulcers and other kinds of gastric discomfort. Researchers have studied and noted the “gastro-protective effect” of neem bark extract.

#5 Promotes Oral Hygiene

Neem twigs have also been traditionally used as a toothbrush and oral hygiene agent. Chewing on a twig prevents gum diseases, strengthens gums, relieves toothaches and prevents various infections. However, only fresh twigs should be used for this purpose. Twigs that have been stored for over two weeks are susceptible to fungi.

Precautions

Avoid taking too much neem because it could heat up the body. Excessive consumption of neem can also kill sperm cells and lead to infertility in men. A small marble-sized ball of neem paste a day should be sufficient for most adults. Pregnant women should avoid any consumption of neem for the first five months of their pregnancy.

With such a range of beneficial properties, it is not surprising that Indian poets hailed neem as the “sarva roga nivarini,” or “one that can cure all ailments.” Neem includes at least 100 bioactive compounds, and western medicine has only just begun to explore its various possible healthcare uses.

Ananya Mathur