Neem

Among the many natural plants and herbs that people in India use for their medicinal properties, the Neem tree (L. Azadirachta Indica) is one of the most beneficial for natural or Ayurvedic medicine. Found over most of the forested regions of the Indian Subcontinent, as well as in other countries of similar climatic conditions, the Neem tree can thrive in climates that range from hot, or tropical (45 degrees Celsius) to altitudes of semi-temperate, higher altitude regions, with temperatures slightly above freezing. Used in Indian Ayurvedic medicine for more than 2,000 years, the Neem tree's bark, Neem leaves, Neem seeds, and roots can be made into various medicinal remedies for a wide range of ailments, ranging from anti-hemorrhoids and loss of appetite, to leprosy and other skin disorders.

For generations, Indian medical practitioners have made poultices from Neem leaves to cure skin diseases such as boils, ulcers, eczema, and ring worm. Pastes and extracts from Neem trees have also proven effective in treating various skin fungus conditions, including athlete's foot and lesions in the mouth and vagina. More serious diseases such as chicken pox and small pox have been treated with Neem tree pastes; and even people suffering from herpes and hepatitis B viruses have obtained relief from Neem tree preparations.

Oil made from the Neem tree's fruit and seeds is light to dark brown in color and somewhat bitter tasting; almost like a combination of peanuts and garlic. The oil contains quantities of steroids, including beta-sitosterol (used to treat men suffering from enlarged prostate glands) as well as linoleic and olei acids (Omega 6 and 9), and is found to contain the well known Omega 3 fatty acid (used to prevent arterial sclerosis). In addition to its medicinal properties, Neem oil is also used as a base for variety of organic cosmetics including soaps, shampoos, hand and body lotions and creams. It is also used as an organic bio-pesticide repellant against insects such as Japanese beetles, meal worms, and aphids.

Neem trees are now grown commercially in more than 30 countries, and have even been successfully introduced into warmer regions of North America. Because of its climatic versatility, Neem trees are being used in many reforestation projects around the world. A worldwide foundation, known as the Neem Foundation, helps make people aware of the values of the Neem and other natural "green" products for a better and healthier lifestyle. The use of Neem tree pesticides, as noted above, is creating a greater awareness of the benefits of natural, non-chemical solutions for our environment.

Available Neem Related Products in the US:

Neem Formula