Learn About The Ayurvedic Herb Neem - Uses And Benefits

Neem is a medicinal herb that originated in the Indian subcontinent. The holistic science of medicine, Ayurveda, considers Neem or Azadirachta Indica or Neemba an effective and versatile herb. It has been used either individually or as a part of remedies for last 5000 years. Every part of Neem tree can be used therapeutically for various treatments.

Neem in Ayurveda

Neem is considered to be an effective immuno-stimulant, with antibacterial and antiviral properties. It is due to the presence of an excess of 130 compounds that are biologically active. Ayurveda believes that Neem has a myriad of medicinal properties and uses, such as -

• The anti-bacterial properties of Neem make it effective in the treatment of burns, infections, and a variety of skin related conditions such as acne and eczema.
• Neem leaves are used to treat neuromuscular pain or Vaata disorders
• Neem has blood purifying properties.
• Neem can be used to prevent the free radical damage,e and to treat ulcers, insect bites, etc.
• Neem stimulates the immune systems and promotes healing.

Benefits of Neem

The various benefits of Neem are as follows

• It improves and supports the immune system
• It provides clear complexion and healthy skin
• It improves the digestive environment
• It improves the blood sugar levels
• It purifies the blood
• It improves the respiratory system and metabolism
• It provides skin lubrication.

Uses

In Ayurveda, Neem is used to balance the Kapha and Pitta Doshas. Neem tends to aggravate Vata, so it is used in tandem with Vata pacifying herbs. The bitter taste of Neem is the source of strong Virya or cooling energy. Its blood purifying nature and strong Virya makes it instrumental in balancing the Pitta Dosha, especially in the presence of heat in the blood or Rakta Dhatu.

Neem based pastes and oils are used to keep the skin lubricated and soft. It helps in maintaining body temperature, countering skin irritation, and promotes healthy skin and nails. It is also used to correct Kapha imbalance since it promotes healthy digestion by kindling Medha Dhatu Agni and promoting digestion.

Additional uses of Neem can be listed as

• The Neem leaf paste can be used to heal wounds, prevent infection, and treat insect-bites.
• It can be used to prevent dandruff by boiling it in water, and by using the resultant green water to cleanse the scalp.
• To treat acne, ear boils, skin inflammation, etc
• To treat eye tiredness, redness, and irritation.
• To enhance immunity.

Various parts of Neem

The various parts of Neem such as leaves, Neem flower, barks, and twigs are used for various medicinal purposes.

• The flower - Unlike the other parts of Neem plant, the sweet-smelling Neem flower is not bitter. These can be used fresh or in a powdered form, or its dried form. It is used to treat belching, nausea, intestinal worms, and anorexia.
• Twigs and bark - They are used to maintain and promote oral hygiene.
• Neem oil - It is extracted from the Neem seeds and it has a variety of uses, ranging from cosmetics to treating a number of skin diseases.

The versatility of Neem in curing diseases and maintaining general health makes it a very popular herb. Neem and its various plant parts are available as pastes, oil, creams, or tablets that can be easily used. The Neem twigs have been used as a toothbrush for many centuries.