Neem

Neem is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 15– 20 metres (49– 66 feet), and hardly ever 35– 40 m (115– 131 ft). It is deciduous, shedding many of its leaves throughout the dry winter months. The branches are broad and spreading. The fairly thick crown is roundish and may reach a size of 20– 25 m (66– 82 ft). The neem tree is comparable in look to its relative, the chinaberry (Melia azedarach).

The opposite, pinnate leaves are 20– 40 cm (8– 16 in) long, with 20 to 30 medium to dark green brochures about 3– 8 cm (1 +1 ⁄ 4– 3 +1 ⁄ 4 in) long. The terminal leaflet frequently is missing out on. The petioles are short.

White and fragrant flowers are arranged in more-or-less drooping axillary panicles which are up to 25 cm (10 in) long. The inflorescences, which branch up to the third degree, bear from 250 to 300 flowers. A specific flower is 5– 6 mm (3⁄16– 1⁄4 in) long and 8– 11 mm (5⁄16– 7⁄16 in) wide. Protandrous, bisexual flowers and male flowers exist on the same specific tree.

The fruit is a smooth (glabrous), olive-like drupe which differs fit from elongate oval to nearly roundish, and when ripe is 14– 28 mm (1⁄2– 1 +1 ⁄ 8 in) by 10– 15 mm (3⁄8– 5⁄8 in). The fruit skin (exocarp) is thin and the bitter-sweet pulp (mesocarp) is yellowish-white and extremely fibrous. The mesocarp is 3– 5 mm (1⁄8– 1⁄4 in) thick. The white, tough inner shell (endocarp) of the fruit encloses one, seldom two, or 3, elongated seeds (kernels) having a brown seed coat.

The neem tree is frequently confused with a comparable looking tree called bakain. Bakain also has toothed brochures and similar looking fruit. One distinction is that neem leaves are pinnate however bakain leaves are two times- and thrice-pinnate. [1]

Overview

Neem is a tree. The bark, leaves, and seeds are utilized to make medication. Less regularly, the root, flower, and fruit are likewise used.

Neem leaf is utilized for leprosy, eye disorders, bloody nose, intestinal tract worms, indigestion, loss of appetite, skin ulcers, diseases of the heart and capillary (heart disease), fever, diabetes, gum disease (gingivitis), and liver issues. The leaf is likewise utilized for birth control and to trigger abortions.

The bark is used for malaria, stomach and digestive tract ulcers, skin diseases, discomfort, and fever.

The flower is utilized for decreasing bile, controlling phlegm, and dealing with digestive worms.

The fruit is used for hemorrhoids, intestinal worms, urinary system conditions, bloody nose, phlegm, eye disorders, diabetes, injuries, and leprosy.

Neem twigs are utilized for cough, asthma, piles, intestinal worms, low sperm levels, urinary disorders, and diabetes. People in the tropics often chew neem branches instead of utilizing toothbrushes, but this can trigger illness; neem twigs are frequently contaminated with fungi within 2 weeks of harvest and ought to be avoided.

The seed and seed oil are utilized for leprosy and intestinal worms. They are also used for birth control and to trigger abortions.

The stem, root bark, and fruit are used as a tonic and astringent.

Some people use neem straight to the skin to treat head lice, skin diseases, injuries, and skin ulcers; as a mosquito repellent; and as a skin conditioner.

Inside the vaginal area, neem is utilized for birth control.

Neem is likewise utilized as an insecticide. [2]

History

Neem is likely native to the Indian subcontinent and to dry locations throughout South Asia. It has been introduced to parts of Africa, the Caribbean, and numerous counties in South and Central America. The plant has actually long been utilized in Ayurvedic and herbal remedies and is utilized in cosmetics and in organic farming applications. [3]

Active Compounds of Azadirachta indica L. (Neem)

Azadirachta indica L. (neem) shows rehabs role in health management due to abundant source of various types of active ingredients. The most important active constituent is azadirachtin and the others are nimbolinin, nimbin, nimbidin, nimbidol, sodium nimbinate, gedunin, salannin, and quercetin. Leaves contain components such as nimbin, nimbanene, 6-desacetylnimbinene, nimbandiol, nimbolide, ascorbic acid, n-hexacosanol and amino acid, 7-desacetyl-7-benzoylazadiradione, 7-desacetyl-7-benzoylgedunin, 17-hydroxyazadiradione, and nimbiol. Quercetin and ß-sitosterol, polyphenolic flavonoids, were purified from neem fresh leaves and were understood to have antibacterial and antifungal residential or commercial properties and seeds hold valuable constituents consisting of gedunin and azadirachtin. [4]

Properties of Neem:

Neem, due to its prospective properties, has been utilized in Ayurvedic medication for more than 4000 years. Neem items have several homes and might have applications in different fields making neem a green treasure.

• It may have anti-allergenic activity
• It might have anti-dermatic activity and might be helpful for skin diseases like acne eczema, psoriasis
• It might have anti-inflammatory activity
• It might have antipyretic activity (fever-reducing)
• It may have anti-scabies activity and might be practical for scabies, a scratchy skin condition
• It might have anti-diabetic activity
• It might have an anti-cancer potential
• It might have diuretic activity and might assist the body get rid of extra fluid (by making more urine)
• It may have an insecticidal activity and might assist in ruining or controlling insects
• It may have larvicidal activity and may help in eliminating larval insects
• It may have nematocidal activity and may assist to kill nematodes (worms that reside in soil)
• It may have anti-microbial activity and may help fight infection. [5]

Prospective health advantages of neem

Although scientific research into neem remains in its starting stages, it shows promise for a number of elements of health, including blood sugar management, as well as advantages for your hair, skin, teeth, liver, and kidneys.

Bear in mind that further human research studies are essential.

Might promote hair health

Neem seed extract contains azadirachtin, an active compound that may battle parasites that affect hair and skin, such as lice. Azadirachtin works by interrupting parasite growth and hindering recreation and other cellular processes.

In a research study that checked the efficacy of a neem-based shampoo on head lice in children, leaving shampoo in the hair for 10 minutes eliminated the lice while being mild on the skin.

Neem extract and nimbidin, a substance found in neem oil, may also deal with dandruff due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial homes. Dandruff and scalp inflammation might arise from fungal accumulation on the scalp.

Might boost oral and oral health

Chewing neem bark to promote oral hygiene is a common practice in India.

Neem’s antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting homes may promote oral health. Although more research is required, research studies indicate that neem may relieve discomfort and aid treat gingivitis, periodontitis, and dental caries.

Furthermore, test-tube studies suggest that neem may minimize bacteria’s capability to colonize the surface area of your teeth, thus minimizing plaque formation.

Plus, in a 21-day study including 45 individuals with gingivitis, neem mouthwash was found to be as efficient as chlorhexidine mouthwash– a heavy duty prescription mouthwash– at decreasing gum bleeding and plaque.

Might aid liver and kidney health

Neem’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties might assist fight oxidative tension, which may in turn promote liver and kidney health.

Oxidative tension is brought on by an accumulation of unsteady molecules called free radicals. Although your body naturally produces free radicals as a byproduct of metabolic process, external sources increase their presence.

Some drugs, including cancer medication, pain relievers, and antipsychotics, may contribute to oxidative stress, resulting in tissue damage in your liver and kidneys.

Surprisingly, one research study on rats discovered that neem leaf extract lowered liver damage induced by high-dose acetaminophen.

Another rat study revealed similar results, recommending that neem extract improved kidney tissue damage caused by chemotherapy medication.

Nevertheless, studies in people are required.

Might improve skin health

Neem seed oil is abundant in fatty acids, including oleic, stearic, palmitic, and linoleic acids. Jointly, these fatty acids have been revealed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that promote healthy skin.

Remember that while Ayurvedic medicine– an Indian conventional recovery system– uses neem to treat psoriasis and eczema, really couple of scientific studies support these claims.

Acne

Historically, neem has been used to treat acne, reduce imperfections, and enhance skin flexibility.

Indeed, studies recommend that neem oil’s anti-bacterial homes combat acne.

A test-tube study showed that neem oil might help long-term acne treatment when contributed to solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), a new type of drug formulation that offers a steady release of active components.

All the same, research study in people is essential.

Ulcer and wound healing

Animal studies recommend that neem leaf extract speeds up injury healing through an increased inflammatory action and the formation of new blood vessels.

In a 2013, 34-day case study, using 100 mg of neem oil topically twice day-to-day entirely recovered persistent skin ulcers.

In another research study, 6 individuals with intestinal ulcers took 30 mg of neem extract orally two times daily. After 10 days, acid secretion had actually decreased considerably, and after 10 weeks, the ulcers were nearly entirely healed.

Yet, this was a fairly little research study. More human research study is required.

Other prospective benefits

Neem may have a number of other health advantages, though results are combined, and further studies in individuals are necessary.

Antimalarial effects

Neem contains active substances called limonoids. A study in mice found that limonoids may be as efficient at targeting malaria-infected cells as traditional treatments utilizing chloroquine.

However, some test-tube research studies reveal no positive effect of neem extract on malaria outcomes.

Remember that neem is not commonly utilized to treat malaria at this time.

Antifertility treatment

Neem has also been thought about as an option to a vasectomy due to its antifertility impacts. A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that sterilizes people with testicles by stopping the release of sperm.

Animal research studies note that neem may debilitate and eliminate sperm without any long-term repercussions.

Diabetes management

Some animal studies suggest that neem leaf extract might be a candidate for brand-new diabetes medications.

That’s because neem extract may assist revive cells that produce insulin– the hormonal agent that helps control blood sugar– and lower blood sugar level levels.

All the same, human research studies are doing not have.

Although neem appears to have many therapeutic effects, results are inconclusive given that they’re based on test-tube and animal research study with extremely couple of human research studies. [6]

Neem Flowers

A lot of parts of the neem tree are very bitter, with the exception of its flowers. White and fragile, neem flowers with their off-white buds are practically too quite to be consumed and amazingly healing. The flowers have a sweet, nearly magical jasmine like aroma in the evening and bloom as soon as in the afternoon and then once again in the evening. During the monsoon, you’ll see a bunch of them scattered right under the tree. Also referred to as Vepampoo in Tamil, these neem flowers can be used fresh, dried or in a powdered form. They’re used frequently in the South to prepare a variety of dishes: flower rice, pachadi, rasam, lentils and more. They’re typically dry roasted and sprinkled on top of the dish to garnish as well.Neem flowers can be utilized to deal with anorexia, queasiness, burping and digestive tract worms. Ayurveda suggests neem leaves are good for the eyes and helpful in dealing with skin disease and headaches. They’re used in aromatherapy because of their soothing result. A 2008 research study likewise found the alcoholic extract of the neem flowers to be an efficient contraceptive.

Benefits of neem leaves: Neem flowers can be used to deal with anorexia, queasiness, belching and digestive worms.

Neem Twigs and Bark

If you were born in India, you would have seen people chew away at a neem branch. For many years now, a neem twig is what people utilized as a make-do tooth brush. It combats bacteria, maintains the alkaline levels in your saliva, keeps bacteria at bay, treats inflamed gums and also gives you whiter teeth. The branch likewise shreds into threads, practically like bristles that also damage and prevent plaque.Neem OilNeem oil that’s drawn out from neem seeds is rich in medical residential or commercial properties which are what makes it a terrific active ingredient in cosmetics and other charm products: soaps, hair oil, hand wash, soap etc. It can treat a bunch of skin diseases and is known to be an exceptional mosquito repellent. You can blend it with coconut oil and apply it over your body as well. It is thought that in India, children are fed neem oil as a type of cure-all. Besides being such a fantastic Ayurvedic therapist, neem oil can be utilized to secure other plants. It can likewise be used in creams, soaps and other cosmetic items. Here are some great uses of neem oil you may have missed:.

1. Say no to blackheads: Take 2-3 drops of neem oil, dilute it with water and apply this mix on your blackheads. Apply this frequently to eliminate blackheads and avoid them from coming back.
2. Anti-ageing: Neem oil is very nourishing and can be added to your face loads. It also assists ageing skin, any type of skin inflammation and itching.
3. For fantastic hair: Take some neem oil and rub it into the scalp, leave it in for a while and wash. Neem oil can strengthen your hair, prevent hair fall and treat dandruff. [7]

Uses

Individuals most frequently use neem in hair and skin care products. Some individuals take neem extract capsules, but there is not presently sufficient research to say whether they have any medical advantages.

The oil is yellow or brown and smells of garlic or sulfur. If ingested, it has a strong bitter taste.

Little research study is readily available on neem’s impact on hair health, however anecdotal evidence recommends that it might be practical for:.

Dandruff: Neem is a popular component in several anti-dandruff shampoos. Although there has been no research study to support its use, neem is an anti-inflammatory and an anti-microbial, which might help reduce the symptoms related to dandruff.

Lice: The results of a small research study showed that neem is an effective anti-lice and anti-nit agent. The study just checked 12 kids with lice, but all were completely lice- and nit-free after treatment with a neem-based shampoo. No lice existed for 7– 10 days after treatment, and there were no negative effects.

Oral products, including mouthwashes, toothpastes, and tooth powders, can likewise include neem. Neem can lower discomfort from toothache and enhance dental health by cleaning the teeth and gums and reducing gingivitis. [8]

Potential uses of Neem for Cancer:

Flavonoids and other chemicals found in neem might contribute against the worsening of cancer. Numerous studies suggest that high flavonoids may assist stop the development of cancer. Neem and its extracts have a possible action versus a vast array of cancer cells in humans that include cancers of the skin, breast, lung, oral, stomach, liver, colon, and prostate. However, far more substantial research is needed to show its prospective use. Additionally, cancer is a serious condition and you should seek advice from a certified doctor for its diagnosis and treatment.

Potential uses of Neem for Infections:

Viral infections: Neem might assist with dengue fever by possibly stopping the development of the dengue infection. It may interfere with the replication of the coxsackie B virus, a group of viruses that causes disorders varying from indigestion to full-fledged infections in humans. Neem leaf has traditionally been utilized for viral illness such as chickenpox and smallpox also. However, more research studies are needed to prove such claims.

Bacterial infections and Skin infections: Recent research studies have focused on antibacterial activities of neem in the mouth, specifically in gum disease and tooth cavities.

Neem is also believed to be really reliable in handling scabies, but sufficient scientific information does not exist for human studies.

Given that neem may have potential antimicrobial properties, it might be valuable for different skin issues and illness such as acne, eczema, and other skin problem. Neem oil may also help with psoriasis symptoms. Nevertheless, more research study is required to back up such claims.

Fungal infections: Studies have revealed that neem may have antifungal qualities, which may assist with fungal infections like professional athlete’s foot, ringworm and candida albicans, typically called as a yeast infection or thrush-causing organism. Thrush is a fungal infection that can take place in the mouth, throat or other parts of the body. However, more research is needed. [9]

Neem pills

Neem pills have blood-purifying properties that have helped many people to get much healthier and radiant skin. In this scenario, many individuals suffer from diseases caused by their weak body immune systems. However neem capsules have assisted these clients get a strong body immune system by taking these neem pills under a medical professional’s supervision. Neem capsules act as blood purifiers in our bodies. And likewise enhances the metabolic process in our body. [10]

What Are the Side Effects of Neem?

Taking in a supplement like neem may have potential side effects. These side effects may be common or severe. Due to lack of research, little is understood about the safety of short-term or long-term use of neem; however, there are some possible concerns and adverse effects.

Topical use (placed on skin) can trigger:

Allergic dermatitis (skin inflammation).

Dermatitis on the scalp (used by a specific with hair loss).

Neem oil ought to not be consumed orally.

• Oral intake can result in:
• Throwing up
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea
• Encephalopathy (scattered illness of the brain that affects its function or structure)
• Seizures and coma [11]

May Cause Kidney Damage

A research study reports of a case of intense kidney failure in a private after taking a Chinese herbal medication. The medication, according to the report, consisted of neem as one of the main ingredients (1 ). Though no direct link had actually been developed between neem intake and kidney damage, it is important to be mindful. The trend of harmful kidney injuries with respect to herbal medications is most likely to continue (1 ). Thus, workout caution.

Some believe that excess consumption of neem may also harm the liver. There is no research to support this. However to be on the safe side, if you have liver concerns, please consult your medical professional before taking in neem.

May Lower Blood Glucose Method Too Much

In a study, a mix of neem and longevity spinach (a kind of spinach discovered in China) was found to have hypoglycemic residential or commercial properties.

Though the hypoglycemic impacts of neem seem desirable, if you are on medications for reducing blood sugar, please consult your medical professional before consuming neem.

Medical professionals suggest percentages of neem oil for people with diabetes as it manages blood glucose levels. However, when taken in excess, the drop might become extreme. Hypoglycemia might trigger lightheadedness and weak point (fatigue).

May Cause Decreased Fertility

In rat studies, the administration of neem flower extracts obstructed ovulation partly. Though neem could be utilized as an antifertility representative when required, it may also lower fertility even when not preferred.

In studies done on rats, mice, rabbits, and guinea pigs, neem was discovered to decrease male fertility. In male rats, this decrease was as much as 67% in just six weeks. Nevertheless, neem didn’t appear to stop sperm production.

Some professionals theorize that farmers use neem pesticides to trigger infertility in the bugs so that they do not increase, resulting the same in people who expose themselves to these pesticides. These pesticides are understood to interfere with the direction of the sperms and take a toll on the immune system. However, research is lacking in this aspect.

May Cause Miscarriage

In animal research studies, neem extracts were discovered to induce pregnancy. The extracts could terminate a pregnancy without any noticeable negative effects in both rodents and monkeys. Though this could be preferable for somebody seeking to terminate the kid, for those who are anticipating to develop, neem consumption may not be suggested.

Some theories mention that too much exposure to neem may cause the body immune system to end up being hyperactive. This could lead the body to turn down the sperm cells and eject them from the developed embryo. However, there is insufficient details to substantiate this.

May Cause Allergic Reactions

A study talks about a case of allergic contact stomatitis (swelling of the mouth) after the intake of neem leaves once weekly for three consecutive weeks.

Though neem is most commonly utilized for treating allergies and rashes, its excessive use might cause allergic reactions. We need more research study to further comprehend the other allergies the use of neem might trigger.

May Lead To Infant Deaths

Studies have shown that neem could be toxic to infants. Doses of neem oil (as small as 5 ml) had actually resulted in crib death.

Animal studies likewise showed the toxicity of neem oil at doses as low as 12 to 24 ml per kilogram of body weight.

Though the contaminants in neem oil could be responsible for these results (and not neem itself), more research is necessitated. Neem leaves or their extracts must not be taken in for longer periods. Anecdotal reports state kidney failure in clients who took in neem leaf teas as a treatment for malaria.

The substances in neem are known to cause signs of Reye’s syndrome in babies when exposed to neem oil. The intake of the smallest dosage can be deadly for babies.

Insufficient Evidence For The Following:

There is less details and research about the following side effects. These have actually only been verified by anecdotal proof. However, if you experience any of these negative effects after consuming neem, please stop use and consult your physician.

May Cause Stomach Irritation

Excess inhalation or usage of neem might trigger indigestion or stomach inflammation. More research study is needed to understand how this happens.

May Overstimulate Your Body Immune System

Consumption of neem or neem-based products can increase the immune system. Nevertheless, heavy dosages of neem (especially in clients with disorders) may overstimulate the immune system and trigger complications.

Clients who have undergone organ transplants may likewise need to stay away from neem. The leaves are thought to communicate with immunosuppressant medications during surgical treatments.

Nevertheless, there is insufficient information in this regard.

The benefits of neem are comprehensive and terrific. When taken in the required quantities, it can promote your general health. Nevertheless, if you go beyond the advised dosage, it might cause kidney damage, considerably lower blood sugar levels, cause reduced fertility, trigger allergies, trigger miscarriage, overstimulate the body immune system, and trigger stomach inflammation. It can likewise be poisonous to babies. Hence, caution is extremely recommended when consuming it. Nevertheless, including 2 to 3 neem leaves or 4 ml of neem juice in your regular helps gain its advantages. [12]

Preventative measures

When taken by mouth: Neem bark extract is possibly safe for a lot of adults when used short-term. Doses of up to 60 mg daily for up to 10 weeks have actually been utilized safely. Neem is potentially hazardous when taken by mouth in large dosages or for extended periods of time. It may damage the kidneys and liver.

When applied to the skin: Neem oil or cream is possibly safe when applied to the skin for as much as 2 weeks.

When used inside the mouth: Neem leaf extract gel is potentially safe when applied inside the mouth for up to 6 weeks. Pregnancy: Neem oil and neem bark are likely hazardous when taken by mouth during pregnancy. They can cause a miscarriage.

Breast-feeding: There isn’t enough dependable details to know if neem is safe to utilize when breast-feeding. Remain on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: Neem extract shampoo is potentially safe in children when used one or two times to the head for 10 minutes, then washed with warm water. Taking neem seeds and seed oil by mouth is most likely risky in kids. Severe adverse effects in infants and small children can happen within hours after taking neem oil. These serious side effects include throwing up, diarrhea, sleepiness, seizures, loss of awareness, coma, and death.

” Auto-immune illness” such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other conditions: Neem might trigger the body immune system to end up being more active. This might increase the symptoms of auto-immune diseases. If you have one of these conditions, it’s best to prevent using neem.

Reduced capability to have kids (infertility): There is some evidence that neem can harm sperm. It might likewise lower fertility in other methods. If you are attempting to have kids, prevent using neem.

Organ transplant: There is a concern that neem might reduce the effect of medications that are used to prevent organ rejection. Do not utilize neem if you have had an organ transplant.

Surgery: Neem may decrease blood sugar levels. There is an issue that it may disrupt blood sugar level control during and after surgical treatment. Stop utilizing neem a minimum of 2 weeks before an arranged surgical treatment. [13]

Conclusion

Neem is a special plant because all its parts– its leaves, flowers, seeds, fruit, root, and bark– show medical residential or commercial properties.

Although scientific research study on this supplement is still in its early stages, evidence recommends that it might treat dandruff, lice, gingivitis, and dental plaque, in addition to promote injury recovery.

However, dosage details is presently unknown, and a lack of policy indicates that lots of neem items aren’t evaluated for safety and pureness. Hence, it’s finest to talk with a health care professional prior to attempting any neem product. [14]

Referrals

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azadirachta_indica
2. https://www.rxlist.com/neem/supplements.htm
3. https://www.britannica.com/plant/neem-tree
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4791507/
5. https://pharmeasy.in/blog/ayurveda-uses-benefits-side-effects-of-neem/
6. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/neem#side-effects
7. https://food.ndtv.com/health/benefits-and-uses-of-neem-a-herb-that-heals-1231051
8. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325048#uses
9. https://pharmeasy.in/blog/ayurveda-uses-benefits-side-effects-of-neem/
10. https://www.gaiagoodhealth.com/use-of-neem/
11. https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-neem-89485
12. https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/side-effects-of-neem-you-should-be-aware-of/
13. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-577/neem
14. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/neem#bottom-line