Azadirachta indica , Neem Tree, Margosa

An important member of Meliaceae, is the evergreen Neem Tree (Azadirachta indica).

Well known for its medicinal properties, the Neem tree is a fast growing plant that can reach up to 15 to 30 m tall. It is drought tolerant and thrives in well-drained soils.

The genus name, Azadirachta, comes from the words azad, meaning ‘free’ in Persian, and dirakht, which means ‘tree’. The name indica refers to its Indian origin. Hence, the name literally means the ‘free tree of India’. This is fitting as it is almost a free pharmacy in itself. It has potential in medicine, agricultural and environment conservation.

🌳Neem has fern like, pinnately compound leaves. Each leaf is 15 to 40 cm long, and carries 8 to 19 asymmetrically curved leaflets, each with a toothed margin.

🌳The tree produces small white flowers, which have a very sweet, jasmine-like scent. 

🌳The fruit is a drupe that is edible and has a bittersweet taste. 

🌳The seed yields an oil which is used as an organic pesticide and insect repellent.

🐦Birds like the Yellow-vented Bulbul, Olive-winged Bulbul and Black-naped Oriole feed on the fruit.

🌳People call the Neem Tree a traditional Indian village pharmacy’, as its many medicinal qualities have been in use for thousands of years in Ayurveda. It is also commonly used in soaps, toothpaste and hair products, and as a natural pesticide.

Village folk in India use its twigs as chewable toothbrushes for their antibacterial properties that maintain oral hygiene and health.

Scientific name: Azadirachta indica

Common names: Neem Tree, Margosa

Family: Meliaceae

Native Distribution: Indian subcontinent and South East Asia

References:

https://www.nparks.gov.sg/gardens-parks-and-nature/heritage-trees/ht-2019-300

Reference 

https://www.facebook.com/myplantdiaries?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Plants of Singapore

Neem in the Vedas

Neem in the Vedas...

Neem is also called ‘ Arista ’ in Sanskrit- a word that means ‘perfect, complete and imperishable’. The Sanskrit name ‘ Nimba ’ comes from the term ‘ Nimbati Syasthyamdadati ’ which means ‘to give good health’. ‘ Pinchumada ’ another name of Neem in Sanskrit means the destroyer of leprosy and healer of skin infections. Its medicinal qualities are outlined in the earliest Sanskrit writings and its uses in Hindu medicine that dates back to very remote times. The earliest authentic record of the curative properties of Neem and is uses in the indigenous system of medicine in India is found in Kautilya’s “Arthashastra" around 4th century BC.

Neem's medicinal properties are listed in the ancient documents ‘ Carak- Samhita ’ and ‘ Susruta-Samhita ’, the books at the foundation of the Indian system of natural treatment, Ayurveda. Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine, which emphasizes a holistic approach to human health and well being. It is described in the Ayurvedic texts as ‘ sarva roga nivarini ’ (a universal reliever of all illness). Neem has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for more than 4,000 years due to its medicinal properties. Records show that the non-edible Neem oil was perhaps the oldest known medicinal oil. Almost every part of the Neem tree has been documented for some medicinal use. They are: Tonic and anti-periodic (root bark, stem bark, and young fruit), antiseptic and local stimulant (seed, oil, and leaves), stimulant tonic and stomachic (flowers), demulcent tonic (gum), and refreshing, nutrient, and alternative tonic (toddy). Neem bark leaves, and fruits have been used in Ayurvedic medicines for a long time and are described in ancient writing of Sushruta.

The ‘ Upavanavinod ’, an ancient Sanskrit treatise dealing with forestry and agriculture, cites neem as a cure for ailing soils, plants and livestock. Neem cake, the residue from the seeds after oil extraction, is fed to livestock and poultry, while its leaves increase soil fertility. The ‘ Brihat Samhita ’ of 

‘ Varahamihira ’, dated about 6th century AD, contains a chapter of verses on plant medicines. It recommends that the neem tree be planted near dwellings. Smallpox and chicken pox were cured or staved off with the use of neem leaves.

Unani scholars knew Neem’s properties beneficial to human health and named it as ‘ Shajar-e-Munarak ’, or the blessed tree. Persian scholars called Neem “Azad dirakht-I-Hind,” meaning the noble or free tree of India

 

Neem in Hindu Mythology

Neem is deeply imbued with spiritual meaning. Its curative properties were attributed to the fact that a few drops of heavenly nectar fell upon it. A lot of stories had been muttered in the past of Ancient Indian History consider Neem to be of divine origin. Few are here:

Few drops of Amrita (Ambrosia, the elixir of immortality) was dropped on the Neem trees which was carried by The Garuda (part human and part bird: creature from Hindu Mythology) to the heaven.

In other story, Amrita was sprinkled by ‘ Indira ’ (the celestial kind) on the earth, which gave rise to the neem tree and thereby bestowing upon it numerous of much properties of much use to humans better than those of ‘ Kalpa-vriksha ‘, the wish-fulfilling tree.

In another instance neem tree is related to ‘ Dhanmantri ’ (the Aryan god of medicine). The ancient Hindus believed that planting neem trees ensured a passage to heaven. It was believed that the goddess of smallpox, ‘ Sithala ’, lived in the neem tree.

 

Neem and Rural India

Even today, rural Indians refer to the neem tree as their village pharmacy because they use it for so many ailments. Access to its various products has been free or cheap. There are some 14 million neem trees in India and the age-old village techniques for extracting the seed oil and pesticidal emulsions do not require expensive equipment. Its leaves are stung on the main entrance to remain away from the evil spirits. Brides take bath in the water filled with the Neem leaves. Newly born babies are laid upon the Neem leaves to provide them with the protective aura. Neem gives out more oxygen than other trees. The neem tree is also connected with the Sun, in the story of Neembark 'The Sun in the Neem tree'.

 

Neem Industry in India

Neem is a mature and organized industry in India with a well-laid out system of collection, processing and marketing. In the last couple of years, products made out of Neem are gaining greater acceptance in certified organic farming. In the last 70 years, there has been considerable research upon the properties of neem carried in institutes ranging from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute and the Malaria Research Centre to the Tata Energy Research Institute and the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC). A number of neem-based commercial products, including pesticides, medicines and cosmetics, have come on the market in recent years, some of them produced in the small-scale sector under the banner of the KVIC, others by medium-sized laboratories.

 

Neem, still the holy tree for rural Indians

In Andhra Pradesh, south of central India, Neem in Telgu language is known as ‘ Vepa ’ or the purifier of air. Mere presence of the Neem tree near human dwellings is believed to materially improve human health and even act as a prophylactic against malarial fever and even cholera. In Uttar Pradesh in northern India, village surrounded with Neem trees, were frequently cited as proverbially free form fever, when the neighbouring villages without Neem suffered severely (Mitra 1963). Belief in curative properties of Neem in some population in India is so strong that it defies explanation. In south India, people lay a patient suffering from smallpox, chickenpox, or even syphilis on a bed of Neem leaves and fanned with a Neem branch. The medicinal properties of neem help him to suffer less and regain his health sooner. The Khasi and jaintia tribes in northeastern India use Neem leaves for curing diarrhea and dysentery, while leaves and fruits are used in treating tuberculosis and heart diseases. Because of such diverse curative properties, Neem is appropriately known as “ The Village Pharmacy ” in rural India and has secured a place in the Indian Pharmacopoeia. The common preparations are the powdered bark, the fresh leaves, a decoction and tincture of powdered bark, and a poultice of Neem leaves. The bark is said to be astringent, tonic and anti-periodic, while the leaves are said to act as a stimulant application to indolent and ill-conditioned ulcers.

 

Neem in other countries

Neem’s reputation as a reliever of sickness has traveled to far off countries in tropical Africa where it was introduced a century ago and even Latin America, where it was introduced in the past decade. In Kenya and neighboring countries in eastern Africa, Neem in Kiswahili language is known as ‘ Mwarunaini ’ meaning the reliever of 40 humans disorders. In Niger in West Africa the most often usage of Neem oil also is for medicinal purpose.

Sri Eswaran

NEEM TREE

NEEM TREE:-

Neem is also called ‘Arista’ in Sanskrit- a word that means ‘perfect, complete and imperishable’. The Sanskrit name ‘Nimbi’ comes from the term ‘Nimbati Syasthyamdadati’ which means ‘to give good health’. ‘Pinchumada’ another name of Neem in Sanskrit mean the destroyer of leprosy and healer of skin infections. Its medicinal qualities are outlined in the earliest Sanskrit writings and its uses in Hindu medicine that dates back to very remote times. The earliest authentic record of the curative properties of Neem and is uses in the indigenous system of medicine in India is found in Kautilya’s “Arthashastra" around 4th century BC.

Neem's medicinal properties are listed in the ancient documents ‘Carak- Samhita’ and ‘Susruta-Samhita ’, the books at the foundation of the Indian system of natural treatment, Ayurveda. Ayurveda is the ancient Indian system of medicine, which emphasizes a holistic approach to human health and wellbeing. It is described in the Ayurvedic texts as ‘sarva roga nivarini’ (a universal reliever of all illness). Neem has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for more than 4,000 years due to its medicinal properties. Records show that the non-edible Neem oil was perhaps the oldest known medicinal oil. Almost every part of the Neem tree has been documented for some medicinal use. They are: Tonic and anti-periodic (root bark, stem bark, and young fruit), antiseptic and local stimulant (seed, oil, and leaves), stimulant tonic and stomachic (flowers), demulcent tonic (gum), and refreshing, nutrient, and alternative tonic (toddy). Neem bark leaves, and fruits have been used in Ayurvedic medicines for a long time and are described in ancient writing of Sushruta.

The ‘Upavanavinod’, an ancient Sanskrit treatise dealing with forestry and agriculture, cites neem as a cure for ailing soils, plants and livestock. Neem cake, the residue from the seeds after oil extraction, is fed to livestock and poultry, while its leaves increase soil fertility. The ‘Brihat Samhita’ of ‘Varahamihira’, dated about 6th century AD, contains a chapter of verses on plant medicines. It recommends that the neem tree be planted near dwellings. Smallpox and chicken pox were cured or staved off with the use of neem leaves. Unani scholars knew Neem’s properties beneficial to human health and named it as ‘Shajar-e-Munarak’, or the blessed tree. Persian scholars called Neem “Azad dirakht-I-Hind,” meaning the noble or free tree of India

Neem in Hindu Mythology:- Neem is deeply imbued with spiritual meaning. Its curative properties were attributed to the fact that a few drops of heavenly nectar fell upon it. A lot of stories had been muttered in the past of Ancient Indian History consider Neem to be of divine origin. Few are here:

Few drops of Amrita (Ambrosia, the elixir of immortality) was dropped on the Neem trees which was carried by The Garuda (part human and part bird: creature from Hindu Mythology) to the heaven.

In other story, Amrita was sprinkled by ‘Indira’ (the celestial kind) on the earth, which gave rise to the neem tree and thereby bestowing upon it numerous of much properties of much use to humans better than those of ‘Kalpa-vriksha ‘, the wish-fulfilling tree.

In another instance neem tree is related to ‘Dhanmantri’ (the Aryan god of medicine). The ancient Hindus believed that planting neem trees ensured a passage to heaven. It was believed that the goddess of smallpox, ‘Sithala ’, lived in the neem tree.

In Andhra Pradesh, south of central India, Neem in Telgu language is known as ‘Vepa’ or the purifier of air. Mere presence of the Neem tree near human dwellings is believed to materially improve human health and even act as a prophylactic against malarial fever and even cholera. In Uttar Pradesh in northern India, village surrounded with Neem trees, were frequently cited as proverbially free form fever, when the neighboring villages without Neem suffered severely (Mitra 1963). Belief in curative properties of Neem in some population in India is so strong that it defies explanation. In south India, people lay a patient suffering from smallpox, chickenpox, or even syphilis on a bed of Neem leaves and fanned with a Neem branch. The medicinal properties of neem help him to suffer less and regain his health sooner. The Khasi and jaintia tribes in northeastern India use Neem leaves for curing diarrhea and dysentery, while leaves and fruits are used in treating tuberculosis and heart diseases. Because of such diverse curative properties, Neem is appropriately known as “The Village Pharmacy” in rural India and has secured a place in the Indian Pharmacopoeia. The common preparations are the powdered bark, the fresh leaves, a decoction and tincture of powdered bark, and a poultice of Neem leaves. The bark is said to be astringent, tonic and anti-periodic, while the leaves are said to act as a stimulant application to indolent and ill-conditioned ulcers.

Sri Eswaran

Bestower of good health

Nimba which means 'bestower of good health'.

The botanical name for neem is azadiracta indica. The Sanskrit name for the Neem tree is ‘Nimba’ meaning bestower of good health. Other Sanskrit names are ‘Arista’ which implies perfect, complete and imperishable and Pichumada which means destroyer of laprosy and healer of skin infections.

Persian Scholar called Neem ‘Azad dirakht-i-Hind’ which means the noble or free tree of India. Unani scholars named it a ‘Shajar-e-Munarak’ or blessed tree. Neem in the Telugu language is known as Vepa or the purifier of air. The Tamil word for it is Veppam and the tree is Veppa Maram.

It is said that on the first day of Chaitra, after Amavasya, it is very essential to worship the neem and eat its leaves. It is mixed with pepper and sugar, as a safeguard from fever. The neem tree, besides having various medicinal benefits, is a highly revered tree among the Hindus because it is a manifestation of Goddess Durga or Kali. Thus, Kali takes manifestation as Neemari Devi. That is why the tree is sometimes referred to as Neemari Devi. The Tree is worshiped very intensely. Tamil Ladies, while worshiping Maa kali dress in red, carry branches of the Neem tree, and dance in public places swishing the branches as an act of exorcism and to purify the world.

The multi-headed occult goddess Yellamma, highly revered goddess in south India, sometimes assumes the appearance of a young neem tree. Renuka Yellamm is a grama-devata. Notwithstanding Renuka Yellama, both Bengal and pan-India is considered as the revered Mother of Universe or Jagadamba. By ancient tradition, Yellamma was attended to by devadasis. Young maidens worship this Goddess by cladding themselves all over in neem branches. In Bengal, neem tree is considered to be the abode of Goddess Sitala. She is the divine pox-mother. She causes and cures pox.

In Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, the equivalent deity is Goddess Mariamma. Pox marks are called ‘mutthu’ or ‘pearls’. So, she is also referred as Mother Muthu Mariamman. She also gets to be grama-devata with different attributes. The customary treatment of pox is to rub the body with neem leaves while making prayers to Sitala.

Those given to spirit worship, believe that the smoke of burning neem protects both the living and the dead from evil spirits. Its bark was burned to make red ash for religious decoration of the body of adulthood. Leaves are strewn on the floor of temples at wedding of temples to purify and bless the area.

CHARAKA SAMHITA: Neem's Medicinal value are listed in ancient Ayurvedic texts the 'Charaka Samhita' and 'Sursuta-Samhita' The 'Brihat Samhita' of Varahamihira recommends that the neem tree be planted near dwellings for its oxygen giving attributes. Every part of neem tree, leaves, twings, seed, oil and root have medicinal importance. It balance the vata and kapha dosha. At some time or other, neem is said to be used in the cure of AIDS, fungal infections, malaria, sexually transmitted diseases, shingles and yeast infections. Blood disorders, digestive problems and kidney problems are brought into control. Ayurvedic treatment is time managed. So neem products are taken between Sunrise to Sunset. Try Neem leaf chutney!

- Sri Eswaran

Significance of Neem Tree

Significance of Neem Tree

The Sanskrit name for the Neem tree is ‘Nimba’ meaning bestower of good health. Other Sanskrit names are ‘Arista’ which implies perfect, complete and imperishable and Pichumada which means destroyer of laprosy and healer of skin infections.

 

Neem in the Telugu language is known as Vepa or the purifier of air. The Tamil word for it is Veppam and the tree is Veppa Maram.

It is said that on the first day of Chaitra, after Amavasya, it is very essential to worship the neem and eat its leaves. It is mixed with pepper and sugar, as a safeguard from fever. The neem tree, besides having various medicinal benefits, is a highly revered tree among the Hindus because it is a manifestation of Goddess Durga or Kali. Thus, Kali takes manifestation as Neemari Devi. That is why the tree is sometimes referred to as Neemari Devi. The Tree is worshiped very intensely. Tamil Ladies, while worshiping Maa kali dress in red, carry branches of the Neem tree, and dance in public places swishing the branches as an act of exorcism and to purify the world.

The multi-headed occult goddess Yellamma, highly revered goddess in south India, sometimes assumes the appearance of a young neem tree. Renuka Yellamm is a grama-devata. Not withstanding Renuka Yellama, both Bengal and pan-India is considered as the revered Mother of Universe or Jagadamba. By ancient tradition, Yellamma was attended to by devadasis. Young maidens worship this Goddess by cladding themselves all over in neem branches. In Bengal, neem tree is considered to be the abode of Goddess Sitala. She is the divine pox-mother. She causes and cures pox.

In Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, the equivalent deity is Goddess Mariamma. Pox marks are called ‘mutthu’ or ‘pearls’. So, she is also referred as Mother Muthu Mariamman. She also gets to be grama-devata with different attributes. The customary treatment of pox is to rub the body with neem leaves while making prayers to Sitala.

Those given to spirit worship, believe that the smoke of burning neem protects both the living and the dead from evil spirits. Its bark was burned to make red ash for religious decoration of the body of adulthood. Leaves are strewn on the floor of temples at wedding of temples to purify and bless the area.

- Sri Eswaran

Health Benefits and Uses of Neem

Health Benefits and Uses of Neem

Neem is a very unique tree and neem leaves are the most complex leaves on the planet. The neem tree has over 130 different biologically active compounds, and the neem leaf is one of the most complex leaves you can find on the planet.

1. Anti-Cancer Benefits of Neem

Consuming neem every day keeps the number of cancerous cells within a certain limit. Neem has many incredible medicinal benefits, but one of the most important things is, it kills cancerous cells. Everyone has cancerous cells in their body, but normally, they are disorganized.

Request for Help for Chennai Flood Relief

However, if you create certain situations in the body, they will get organized. As long as these cells are loafing around by themselves, it is not an issue. If they all gather in one place and hit it off, it becomes a problem. This is like a shift from petty crime to organized crime. It is a serious problem. If you consume neem every day, it keeps the number of cancerous cells in the body within a certain limit, so that they will not gang up against your system.

2. Anti-Bacterial Benefits of Neem

The world is full of bacteria. So is the body. There are more microorganisms living in you than you can imagine. Most of these bacteria are helpful. Without them, you would not be able to digest anything. In fact, you cannot exist without them. But some bacteria can cause you trouble. Your body constantly spends energy to manage these bacteria.

If excess levels of bacteria occur, you will feel “down” because your defense mechanism has to spend too much energy to fight them. By using neem internally and externally, you can manage these bacteria in such a way that they will not overgrow, and your body will not have to spend too much energy in fighting them. If you consume a certain amount of neem on a daily basis, it will destroy the troublesome bacteria in the intestinal region, and your colon will generally remain clean and free of infection.By using neem internally and externally, you can manage bacteria so that they will not overgrow.

neam3

Also, if there is a slight smell in certain areas of the body, it means bacteria are a little more active there. Almost everyone has some minor skin issues but if you wash your body with neem, it becomes clean and radiant. If you rub your body with neem paste before having a bath, let it dry for some time, and then wash it off with water, it will act as a good antibacterial cleanser. Alternatively, you can soak a few neem leaves in water overnight and bathe with this water in the morning.

3. Benefits of Neem for Yogic Sadhana

Above all, neem generates heat in the body. This generation of heat is supportive for generating intense forms of energy within the system. Different qualities can be predominant in the body – two of these are sheeta and ushna, in traditional terms. The closest word for “sheeta” in English is “cold,” but that is not exactly what it is. If your system moves towards sheeta, the mucus levels in the body will go up. Excess mucus in the system is linked to a variety of conditions, from the common cold and sinusitis to many other issues. Neem generates heat in the body. This is supportive for generating intense forms of energy

For a hatha yogi, neem is particularly important because it keeps the body slightly oriented towards ushna. Ushna means you have some extra “fuel”. For a sadhaka who explores unknown terrain, it is safer to carry an extra can of fuel, just in case your system needs that extra power. You want to keep the fire slightly higher than generally needed. If the body is in a condition of sheeta, you will not be capable of too much activity. But if you keep your body slightly on the ushna side, even if you travel, eat outside, or are exposed to whatever else, this extra fire in you will burn and handle these external influences. Neem is a big support in that direction.

neam1

Things to keep in Mind

One thing to keep in mind is, when consumed in excess, neem will kill sperm cells. In the first four to five months of pregnancy, when the fetus is developing, pregnant women should not have neem. Neem does not cause any damage to the ovaries but it causes excess heat. When a woman has just conceived and there is too much heat in the body, she may lose the fetus. If a woman is planning to conceive, she should not consume neem because there will be excess heat, and the system will treat the baby like a foreign body.If a woman is planning to conceive, she should not consume neem because there will be excess heat

If heat increases, certain changes will happen in the system – women will notice this more than men. In case this affects the normal process of the body, we bring the heat down to some extent, but we generally do not want to give up neem because for people who do sadhana, some amount of heat in the system is needed.

NEAM

Once they begin to have neem on a daily basis, some women may find that their menstrual cycles become shorter. In that case, just drink more water. If having more water alone is not sufficient to reduce the heat, add a piece of lemon or the juice of half a lemon to the water. If that is still not enough, have a glass of ash gourd juice, which is very cooling. Another option is castor oil. If you put some of it into your navel, at your anahata, at the pit of the throat, and behind the ears, it will instantly cool the system.

- Sri Eswaran

Did you know that the divine tree Neem (नीम), referenced as “Divine Tree”, Life Giving Tree,” “Nature’s Drugstore,” and “Village Pharmacy.” is called in the Vedas in Sanskrit as “Sarva Roga Nivarini,” meaning “One that Cures all Ailments and Ills”?

Neem or Margosa

Did you know that the divine tree Neem (नीम), referenced as “Divine Tree”, Life Giving Tree,” “Nature’s Drugstore,” and “Village Pharmacy.” is called in the Vedas in Sanskrit as “Sarva Roga Nivarini,” meaning “One that Cures all Ailments and Ills”?

The divine tree Neem (नीम), also known as Margosa, a Hindi noun derived from Sanskrit Nimba (निंब) consists of two species in the genus of Azadirachta indica which is native to India. It has been used by humankind to treat various ailments from prehistory to contemporary. It is referenced as “Divine Tree”, Life Giving Tree,” “Nature’s Drugstore,” and “Village Pharmacy.” It is one of two species in the genus Azadirachta indica A. Juss, a member of the mahogany family, Meliaceae, and is native to the Indian subcontinent. It is typically grown in tropical and semi-tropical regions. The Latinized name of Neem, Azadirachta indica, is derived from the Persian. language by the words 'Azad' meaning "free", ' ' dirakht' meaning “tree”; and ' i-Hind' meaning “of "Indian origin”

 In the ancient Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro civilizations one of the most prominent medicinal herbs found was A. indica, which was also known as Neem. Indian emigrants took it along to the places where they settled. Thus, the Neem tree was introduced in places such as Australia, East and sub-Sahelian Africa, South East Asia, and South America. Today, the neem is well established in at least 30 countries worldwide, in Asia, Africa and Central and South America. Some small scale plantations are also reportedly successful in Europe and United States of America. The world's largest neem plantations are about 10 sq km in the plains of Arafat, Saudi Arabia. A Saudi philanthropist planted 50,000 neem trees to shade and comforts the two million pilgrims.

 

In the annals of the ancient Siddha system of medicine, of the Dravidian civilization dated back to 10,000 B.C to 4,000 B.C. the first medicinal plant mentioned as well as found a place, in ancient Tamil literature is Neem or Margosa. 

The evergreen Neem tree is native to India and Burma and belongs to the botanical cousin of mahogany, in the family Meliaceae.. Known for its drought resistance, it can grow everywhere from semiarid and semi humid conditions, with an annual rainfall of 400–1,200 millimetres (16–47 in). It grows at elevations up to 1500 m above sea level and its life is > 200 years. It can also grow in regions with an annual rainfall below 400 mm, but in such cases it depends largely on ground water levels. Neem can grow in many different types of soil, but it thrives best on well drained deep and sandy soils. Within 3–5 years, Neem trees start bearing harvestable seeds and full production may be reached in 10 years. Each year, about 30–50 kg of fruit may be produced. Oil yield from neem seeds is 40–60 wt% . 

 

Neem has been used by humankind from time immemorial as a deterrent for smallpox and other infectious diseases and is also considered to possess powers to ward off evil spirits. 

Few popular notions about neem in India are: When The amrita (ambrosia or the elixir of immortality) was being carried to heaven and a few drops of it fell on the Neem tree; the Sun took refuge in the Neem Tree to escape from the awesome powers of the demons; and planting three or more Neem trees during one’s lifetime is a surefire ticket to heaven.

All parts of Neem tree are commonly used in traditional Indian medicine for household remedy against various human diseases. Palm leaf manuscript conserved in the Centre for Traditional Medicine and Research (CTMR), Chennai, India, reveals the medicinal uses of neem trees. Neem flower is used to prevent and treat bile disorders; neem leaf is used to prevent and treat ulcers; and neem bark is used to prevent and treat CNS disorders, paralysis and psychiatrics' disorders. Seed is used on a large scale to manufacture medicines for skin diseases including leprosy, ulcers, gastro intestinal problems, oral care, urinary track problems, hair problems, diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol. As a Datoon (teeth cleaner), the neem twig is even now chewed each morning by hundreds of thousands of Indians to clean their teeth. It is used to make complicated pesticide formulations for use abroad, which will have a place under the sun.

The tender shoots and flowers of the Neem tree are eaten as a vegetable in India. A soup like dish called " Veppampoo charu" (Tamil) (translated as "neem flower rasam") made of the flower of neem is prepared in Tamil Nadu.

In the year 1848 when plague epidemic had hit Bangalore (Bengaluru now) the then Maharaja of Mysore Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV initiated the creation of suburbs of Malleswaram, Chamarajapete and Basavanagudi to decongest the old town known as Bengaluru pete. In the Malleswaram suburb, in particular, two avenues named Margosa Road (Neem tree road) and Sampige Road were built from 5th cross to the 18th cross. Most of the trees are still surviving and providing healthy shades to people and it is claimed that these avenues give a 2 degree dip in the temperature.  

Internationally, the United nations has declared the Neem tree as the “Tree of the 21st century" and a report published in 1992 by the US National Academy of Science is titled “Neem: A tree for solving global problems”. 

' Neemania" has gripped scientists in the West and Neem (Azadirachta indica) is being hailed as the wonder tree that can solve global problems from locust swarms to AIDS, Indian scientists are jumping onto the bandwagon. An especially valuable quality of neem is that it is harmless to humans and other mammals.

-- Narasipur Char

The Neem 🌳 tree is an essential ingredient in Ayurveda 💚, with a long tradition of history and efficacy.

The Neem 🌳 tree is an essential ingredient in Ayurveda 💚, with a long tradition of history and efficacy.

What about trying it in tablet form? You can find it on our website.

>>> Link in bio. https://www.srisritattva.eu/

Sri Sri Tattva Europe

Neem and Ayurveda

Ancient use of Neem in Ayurveda 

In ayurvedic text neem has been regarded as the 'sarva roga nivarini' as it keeps all the diseases at bay. Since ages neem has been used to cure almost all kinds of diseases and also taken to maintain a healthy life. Every part of neem such as bark, seed oil, leaf, roots has ayurvedic properties and hence used in therapeutic preparations. 

Neem has been an inherent part of ayurveda since ages; its blood purification property made it a favourite natural ingredient, as a remedy for skin ailments and curing diabetes. It was also used to cure prevalent diseases like malaria and other insect bites. Neem twigs were used as a cheap and healthy oral care. Neem finds mention in almost all ayurveda texts. 

The tree has been widely used in the traditional systems of medicine; it is of immense use in a number of medicines and personal products. Considered to be 'Sarva Roga Nivarini', neem and its curative power is being used on a large scale to manufacture medicines for:

* Skin diseases including leprosy

* Ulcers

* Gastro intestinal problems

* Oral Care

* Urinary track problems

* Hair problems

* Diabetes

* Blood Pressure

* Cholesterol

Ayurvedic practitioners have developed a vast database of knowledge and medicinal preparations over a long period. The neem tree is one of the most important herbs used not only in ayurveda and unani system of medicine but also for other system of medicines such as allopathy. Healers use the roots, bark, gum, leaves, fruit, seed kernels and seed oil for curing various human ailments Neem & Ayurveda The anti viral, anti fungal and anti viral properties of neem makes it all the more useful to manufacture body and hair lotions for a healthy mind, body and soul.

Neem and Ayurveda

* Neem oil is extracted from neem seed and full of chemicals that have insecticidal as well as other medicinal properties. Because of this it is extensively used as pesticide, insecticide, fungicide and for other such applications.

* Neem seed cake i.e. is the left over part of neem seed is used to enrich the soil. It also reduces the nitrogen loss of the soil be inhibiting the process of nitrification. Neem seed cake is also used as a nematicide.

* Neem leaves has great importance in Ayurveda as these are very beneficial. Neem leaves are used in the storing to keep the insects away. It is applied as a paste form in the skin if you have any kind of skin problem. Also it is beneficial for chickenpox. Neem leaves are used to make neem tea that is consumed to reduce the fever due to malaria. Also the fresh leaves of neem are consumed to cure diabetes. So it is a one product with multiferrous advantages.

* Neem twig is used as a teeth cleaning brush in India. It is extremely beneficial for the teeth.

* Neem extract has spermicidal properties hence used for making contraceptives.

* In addition to this neem is great to treat acne, psoriasis, eczema, and other skin infections.

Neem also enhances the body's internal defence system and thus boosts the natural immunity. Through this miraculous tree body is well protected against the free radicals that leads to aging and diseases. It balances pita and kapha doshas. As per ayurveda neem leaves are internal cleansers. If you are suffering from irritated throat then just have a neem leaf tea with honey. This has a smoothening effect. 

If you are suffering from excessive stomach acid premature falling and thinning of hair then taking neem bark is recommended as it has the cooling effect. Anti bacterial and anti fungal properties have been known since ages and because of this reason it is effectively use in shampoo and other such products. 

In Ayurveda literature, neem is regarded as twacha rasayana - an excellent herb for skin. Dry, irritated and skin problems can be cured with neem very effectively.

Anti-cancer benefits of Neem | Anti-bacterial benefits of Neem | Benefits of neem for yogic sadhana

 Anti-cancer benefits of Neem 

Neem has many incredible medicinal benefits, but one of the most important things is, it kills cancerous cells. Everyone has cancerous cells in their body, but normally, they are disorganized. However, if you create certain situations in the body, they will get organized. As long as these cells are loafing around by themselves, it is not an issue. If they all gather in one place and hit it off, it becomes a problem. This is like a shift from petty crime to organized crime. It is a serious problem. If you consume neem every day, it keeps the number of cancerous cells in the body within a certain limit, so that they will not gang up against your system.

#2 Anti-bacterial benefits of Neem

The world is full of bacteria. So is the body. There are more microorganisms living in you than you can imagine. Most of these bacteria are helpful. Without them, you would not be able to digest anything. In fact, you cannot exist without them. But some bacteria can cause you trouble. Your body constantly spends energy to manage these bacteria. If excess levels of bacteria occur, you will feel “down” because your defense mechanism has to spend too much energy to fight them. By using neem internally and externally, you can manage these bacteria in such a way that they will not overgrow, and your body will not have to spend too much energy in fighting them. If you consume a certain amount of neem on a daily basis, it will destroy the troublesome bacteria in the intestinal region, and your colon will generally remain clean and free of infection.

Also, if there is a slight smell in certain areas of the body, it means bacteria are a little more active there. Almost everyone has some minor skin issues but if you wash your body with neem, it becomes clean and radiant. If you rub your body with neem paste before having a bath, let it dry for some time, and then wash it off with water, it will act as a good antibacterial cleanser. Alternatively, you can soak a few neem leaves in water overnight and bathe with this water in the morning.

#3 Benefits of neem for yogic sadhana

Above all, neem generates heat in the body. This generation of heat is supportive for generating intense forms of energy within the system. Different qualities can be predominant in the body – two of these are sheeta and ushna, in traditional terms. The closest word for “sheeta” in English is “cold,” but that is not exactly what it is. If your system moves towards sheeta, the mucus levels in the body will go up. Excess mucus in the system is linked to a variety of conditions, from the common cold and sinusitis to many other issues.

For a hatha yogi, neem is particularly important because it keeps the body slightly oriented towards ushna. Ushna means you have some extra “fuel”. For a sadhaka who explores unknown terrain, it is safer to carry an extra can of fuel, just in case your system needs that extra power. You want to keep the fire slightly higher than generally needed. If the body is in a condition of sheeta, you will not be capable of too much activity. But if you keep your body slightly on the ushna side, even if you travel, eat outside, or are exposed to whatever else, this extra fire in you will burn and handle these external influences. Neem is a big support in that direction.

Things to keep in mind

One thing to keep in mind is, when consumed in excess, neem will kill sperm cells. In the first four to five months of pregnancy, when the fetus is developing, pregnant women should not have neem. Neem does not cause any damage to the ovaries but it causes excess heat. When a woman has just conceived and there is too much heat in the body, she may lose the fetus. If a woman is planning to conceive, she should not consume neem because there will be excess heat, and the system will treat the baby like a foreign body.

If heat increases, certain changes will happen in the system – women will notice this more than men. In case this affects the normal process of the body, we bring the heat down to some extent, but we generally do not want to give up neem because for people who do sadhana, some amount of heat in the system is needed. Once they begin to have neem on a daily basis, some women may find that their menstrual cycles become shorter. In that case, just drink more water. If having more water alone is not sufficient to reduce the heat, add a piece of lemon or the juice of half a lemon to the water. If that is still not enough, have a glass of ash gourd juice, which is very cooling. Another option is castor oil. If you put some of it into your navel, at your anahata, at the pit of the throat, and behind the ears, it will instantly cool the system.