Neem
Neem is one of the most popular medicinal plants with a variety of health benefits. Neem leaves come from the neem tree which is also known as Azadirachta indica and Indian lilac.
It is deciduous, shedding many of its leaves during the dry winter months.
Neem trees act as very efficient, natural air filters trapping dust particles, absorbing gaseous pollutants. The planting of Neem trees helps reduce greenhouse gases through photosynthesis absorbing large quantities of CO2 and producing oxygen.
In India, neem leaves are dried and placed in cupboards to prevent insects from eating the clothes, and also in tins where rice is stored. The flowers are also used in many Indian festivals like Ugadi. The tender shoots and flowers of the neem tree are eaten as a vegetable in India. A souplike dish called Veppampoo charu made of the flower of neem is prepared in Tamil Nadu.
Different parts of the Neem tree and its oil extracted out of seed is being used in different parts of the world for different purposes. Neem oil/extract is being used for making cosmetics like soaps and toothpaste etc.
Neem oil can also provide protection against fungal diseases. Spraying of Neem oil on plant prevent the outbreak of Powdry Mildew disease quite effectively and in some cases better than any commercial product. It is considered most effective as fungi preventive and as a cure after the disease is established on plants.
Due to the extraordinary properties of Neem, its bark, leaves, flowers, seed and fruit pulp were and are now used to treat a wide range of diseases and complaints ranging from leprosy, diabetes, ulcers to skin disorders and constipation etc.
Neem leaves are mainly used for dermatological purposes. It helps in :
Treating Acne
Treating Uneven Skin Tone
Preventing Skin Infection
Lightening Acne Scars
Acts as a Blood Purifier.
How can we grow a neem tree?
The simplest way to propagate neem trees is by seed, but you can also do root and shoot cuttings.
