Neem also known as Margosa tree is an ancient herb that has been used in India for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions. Because of innumerable benefits neem leaf is also known as “Village Pharmacy” . It’s a ray of hope in so many health conditions. We should be thankfull to ancient Acharya’s who have found divine properties of this tree. Neem is increasingly becoming popular in the West for potential health benefits of neem leaf. The neem leaf benefits, includes blood purification, wound healing and management of diabetes. Neem is used in various forms such as neem oil, neem leaf powder, bark of neem tree. In this article, we will explore the potential neem leaf benefits and how it can help you improve your overall health and well-being.
Latin Name: Azadiracta Indica
Vernacular Names:
- Hindi: Neem
- Bengali: Neem
- Tamil: Veppam
- Telugu: Vepu
- Kannada: Bevu
- Malayalam: Veppu
- Marathi: Kadunimbh
- Gujarati: limdo
- Urdu: Neem
Sanskrit Name: Nimba, Aristha, Pichumarda, pichumanda, hinguniryaas, yavaneshta
Advantages of Neem leaf in Ayurveda
Neem also known as Margosa tree holds a revered place in Ayurveda as a rejuvenative tonic (Rasayana) . In Ayurveda neem leaf is known for its cooling ( sheetal) properties.It pacifyies two dosha.
Pitta : By cooling the body and reducing excess pitta ( heat) in body.
Kapha : By removing toxins and reducing lethargy.
Ras ( Taste)
- Tikth Ras (Bitter)
- Kashay (Astringent)
- Shita (Cooling)
Virya ( Change after digestion)
- Katu (Pungent)
Guna ( Qualities)
- Laghu(light)
- Ruksha (Dry)
Benefits of Neem leaf
Skin Health
Neem leaves are widely used to treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rashes. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make neem leaves ideal for:
Face packs to reduce acne and scars.
Neem water to soothe irritated skin.
Neem oil for moisturizing dry and cracked skin.
Dental Care
Neem twigs and leaves are known for their ability to maintain oral hygiene. They prevent gum diseases, reduce plaque, and combat bad breath.
In Ayurveda, bitter, astringent and pungent taste is considered as best for cleaning and maintaining the Oral hygiene. That’s the reason Neem branches popularly known as Datun have been used as natural toothbrush since long time. Research indicate that neem prevents plaque build-up, reduces gum inflammation and fights oral bacteria responsible for cavities and gum diseases.
Blood Purifier
Neem’s detoxifying properties make it a natural blood purifier. Regular consumption helps eliminate toxins and promotes healthy skin and hair.
Immunity Booster
Neem’s immune-boosting properties make it a valuable ally in fighting infections and illnesses. Its ability to modulate the immune response helps the body ward off pathogens while reducing inflammation. Anti-inflammatory compounds in neem, such as quercetin and catechin, provide relief from conditions such as arthritis and allergies, promoting overall well-being.
The antioxidant content of neem helps to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which are the root cause of many chronic diseases. By supporting the body’s natural defense mechanisms, neem strengthens immunity and increases resilience against environmental stress..
Helps fight infections
One of the most well-known benefits of Neem is its powerful antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Research has shown that Neem contains compounds such as nimbin and nimbidin, which inhibit E. coli and exhibit strong antimicrobial activity against a variety of pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus. Incorporating Neem into daily routines, either through oral intake or topical application, can help fight infections and promote wound healing.
Research studies have shown that Neem contains both alkaloids amd liminoids. The liminoid found in Neem leaves is used to treat malaria in many countries.
Neem oil benefits
Neem oil is derived by crushing the seeds. It contains fatty acids, antioxidants and antimicrobial compound which are useful in many skin problems. Traditionally neem oil has been used in treating head lice and dandruff. Research shows that neem oil helps fight skin infection, promote wound healing and have anti ageing effects.
Neem leaf benefits
In Ayurveda neem leaf powder is having very good effect on the skin. It is very useful in eye disorders. Neem leaves have magical effects in wound healing. For wound healing , boil neem leaves in water for 10 to 15 min , let this water cool down ,then wash the wound with this water.
In excessive heat in body neem leaf juice add some candy sugar to it and drink it for 8 days it will balance all the pitta in your body. It has got anti bacterial, anti fungal and anti viral properties.It is helpful in treating acne, fungal infection , ringworm . Neem leaf has both bitter as well as astringent taste. Because of this Neem leaves helps in remove the toxins from the body.
Medicinal Qualities of Neem in Ayurveda
Shramhar : It relieves tiredness
Aruchihar : Neem is useful in Anorexia. In Ayurveda , bitter foods are believed to increase Agni , promoting efficient digestion.
Kashar : Relieves cough. Because of its antibacterial property it is useful in respiratory tract infections.
Jwarhar : Neem is bitter is taste and decreases the pitta (fire) , because of this Neem helps to relieve fever.
Take neem bark and some water to it and make a decoction . Add one teaspoon corrainder seed powder and dry ginger powder (sonth) and drink it. it
Krumihar : it helps to fight of intestinal worms and parasite, which can cause digestive discomfort and nutrient deficiencies .
Eat neem leaves along with aseofidita helps kill worms.
Vranhar : means it helps to heal wound faster.
Kusthahar : neem is very beneficial in all variety of skin problems as it helps to manage both kapha-pitta dosha in the body. Morover its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties helps to fight skin infections like athlete’s foot and ring worm. Neem’s high vitamin E content nourishes the skin, while its cooling effect soothes irritation and redness. Neem offers a natural solution to achieving clear , radiant skin.
Mehnut : Neem leaf powder or juice in diabetes management by regulating the blood sugar levels.
How to use Neem
Shatavari can be consumed in various forms, including:
- Neem leaf Powder (Churna): Mixed with warm water, often with a pinch of black salt for taste.
- Dosage : 2 to 4 gms of churna with luke warm water.
- Capsules or Tablets: Now a days neem leaves are avaialable in capsules or tablets are convenient for daily supplementation.
- Dosage : 1-2 tablet/ capsule two times a day.
- Juice : Prepared by boiling the neem leaves in water, useful for digestive or respiratory issues.
- Dosage : 15 ml to 20 ml juice two times a day before meals.
Cautions And Contraindications
While neem leaves offer numerous benefits, they should be used cautiously:
Avoid excessive consumption of neem, especially if you have a Vata constitution.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid neem products.
Consult a healthcare provider before using neem for chronic conditions.
Frequently asked question
1.Can this herb be used while taking homoepathic medicine ?
Yes. This herb does not react with homeopathic medicine.
2.Can this herb/medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin, omega 3, spirulina.
Yes .Generally this herb goes well with most dietary supplement. However if you are taking more than one product per day please consult your doctor for opinion.
3. With western/modern medicine
Seek your doctors advice if you are taking this product along with other western (allopathic/modern) medicine. Some ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern medicine.
When taking ayurvedic medicine or herb with modern medicine it is best to keep one hour gap in between both the medicine.
4. How long does neem take to start showing result ?
It depend on any existing disease, overall health, your prakriti ( genetic make up) all these factors plays a role in how quickly shatavari work. However it is observed that results are usually visible in 1-2 weeks or even months.
5.Can it be used in people with diabetes?
Yes. But always keep watch on your sugar levels. This herb can lower your blood sugar levels. Do not stop your diabetes medicine once you start taking this herb/medicine. Keep in touch with your ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you in this respect.
6.Are there any diet restriction( Pathya) while taking this product.
No .There are no such restriction while taking this product. However if you have been adviced with any specific diet based on disease, you should continue to follow it.
Home Remedies of Neem leaf
To heal wound : Neem is of the best herb for healing a wound. It is also very effective healing a fistula.
How to Use : Boil some leaves of neem in water. After water remains half cool it down . Wash the wound with this neem water.
In Hyperacidity : Take neem leaves add some corrriander seed, dry ginger and candy sugar. Now add all this in 2 cup of water and boil it water remains half. Then cool it down and drink this decoction.
Relieves Itching : Neem seed crush and apply on the part there is itching. This helps to relieve itching.
For piles : Fry neem seed in sesame oil and crush it in same oil add little bhimsene kapoor and honey wax apply this paste on pile mass. This will help in shrinking the pile mass.
Ayurvedic medicine that contains Neem
Neem (Asadiracta Indica) is main ingriedients in following medicines
Arogyavardhini : A poly herbal medicine used in treating gastritis of vata-pitta origin. Also helpful in urinary tract infection and stone.
Nimbadi churna : A combination of herbs with Azadiracta Indica as main herb. It is used in skin diseases, itching, balancing pitta-kapha dosha and weakness.
Conclusion
Neem leaves, with their myriad health benefits, are a true gift of nature. Whether you’re looking to enhance your skin health, boost immunity, or manage chronic conditions, neem can be your go-to remedy. By incorporating neem leaves into your daily routine through simple home remedies, you can unlock their full therapeutic potential. Always remember to use neem responsibly and consult an expert if needed.
Please consult your doctor before taking this medicine.
This Article is written by Dr. Ashutosh Tiwari B.A.M.S, PGDCR Director of Risha’s Health And Ayurvedaa Solutions.He is having more than 20 years of experience in field of Ayurvedic medicine.
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