Neem is a shade-giving tree found in tropical regions or drought-prone areas due to its ability to survive on minimum water. The scientific name of neem is Azadirachta indica and is also known by various other names in English, such as Neem tree, Neem, Indian lilac, etc. From the neem bark to the neem leaves and even the flower, fruit, seed, and root – all parts of the neem tree are used in treating different conditions. Many people in the morning still use neem twigs as chewing sticks to avoid tooth decay and gum diseases.
Different forms of Neem available in the market
Neem extracts are used in various forms in the market, such as oil, gel, powder, tablets, or capsules. Neem oil is added to hair oils to prevent lice and dandruff. Neem oil is also used in aromatherapy for its calming effect. Neem gel or neem powder is applied on teeth and gums to avoid tooth decay or gum diseases. It is also applied to the skin for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help treat and prevent acne. Neem tablets and neem capsules are taken as dietary supplements for their immense health benefits, such as Honeyline Neem, a highly concentrated premium ayurvedic supplement with 10% Bitters (Limonoids).
Parts of Neem tree
Neem leaf has anti-oxidant properties. The leaf extract is used in health supplements for direct consumption through the mouth. The paste made from neem leaves is applied to the skin and wound because of its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. The leaf extracts are used in gel, oil, or health supplements. Neem bark has antiseptic and astringent properties. Neem bark is also rich in anti-oxidant and is used for malaria, ulcer, skin disease, pain, and fever. Many people still chew neem twigs instead of using toothpaste or toothbrush in the morning. Neem Flower has antiseptic properties, which helps cleanse the system, and is used in a variety of south Indian dishes. Ayurvedic practitioners recommend using neem flowers in dishes made during summer to cool down the heat. Neem oil extracted from seed or fruit is used in hair oils or lotions.
Benefits of Neem
Anti-oxidant
Free radicals are a leading cause of various ailments. Regular intake of anti-oxidants helps in neutralizing these free radicals. Neem bark and leaves are rich in anti-oxidants.
Cancer
Normal cell division in our body is a regulated process controlled by DNA. But due to constant exposure to carcinogens, our DNA gets damaged, which leads to mutations in genes causing loss of control over normal cell division. These abnormal, mutated cells multiply rapidly, usually forming a mass known as tumor or cancer. The ingredients in neem may help activate tumor suppressor genes and re-induces the lost process of cell death in cancer cells, inhibiting the process of cancer cells creating their blood vessels for nutrition. The therapeutic effect of neem on cancer is still under study, but it has shown benefits in many cases.
Anti-Inflammatory
Inflammation is a process in which the body's immune system reacts to protect us from infection caused by foreign invaders, such as bacteria or viruses. Some studies on albino rats have confirmed the anti-inflammatory action of using neem.
Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when the body cannot make enough insulin or use insulin effectively. Insulin is produced by the pancreas that helps transfer the glucose from the food we have eaten to the cells to produce energy. Insufficient insulin production causes the accumulation of glucose in the blood, which doesn't reach cells and creates various health problems. Studies on diabetic rats have shown that neem extracts given to diabetic rats have significantly lowered the glucose level. Neem extract can help lower blood sugar, but it may not help prevent or delay the disease.
Ulcer
The ulcer is a sore present external or internal to the body, is caused due to any disease, injury, or infection. Neem compound is found to have an anti ulcerative effect and has been proven to help with gastric problems. During the research, it has been observed that Neem extract, when taken in a low dose of 20 - 60mg daily for 8 - 10 weeks, helps heal ulcers in the stomach and intestine. The herb also helps keep the body's digestive system healthy by removing the toxins and bacteria from the body and reducing the acid concentration in the stomach.
Skin and Hair
Neem leaves have incredible health benefits, and it helps alleviate skin and hair problems. It is widely used as the main ingredient in cosmetics, skin, and hair care products. As it has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, neem helps fight acne, dandruff, fine lines, wrinkles and does a lot more.
Other use of Neem
Neem is an effective insect repellent. Neem oil, when applied to the skin, can help repel some mosquitoes and black flies. Neem also has anti-malaria properties. Neem bark, root, and leaf extract have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Neem leaf extract may help in reducing anxiety and stress.
Side effects of Neem
Neem extract is safe when consumed in a recommended dosage as guided by a dietician or applied to the skin/hair as per a dermatologist. However, eating neem daily in a large dose for a long time without consulting any medical practitioner is unsafe and may harm the kidney and liver. Heavy consumption of neem may also harm sperm cells in males and cause excessive heat in women.
Frequently Asked Questions on Neem
How to take neem?
One to two Neem capsules or tablets can be taken two times a day after the meals with honey or milk or as directed by your physician. It is strictly advised not to consume neem if allergic.
Is Neem toxic to humans?
The intake of neem oil is toxic and can cause increased acid levels in the body fluids, seizures, kidney failure, damage to the brain, etc. It can also cause severe blood flow reduction in the brain in children. Neem oil should not be consumed alone, especially by pregnant women, women trying to conceive, or children.
Can we eat neem leaves during pregnancy?
Pregnant women or women planning to conceive are advised not to have neem as it can cause excessive heat in the body, harming the fetus. Also, there are not enough studies on whether neem is safe to use when breastfeeding.
Can we eat neem leaves during periods?
Women taking neem orally every day may experience shorter menstrual cycles. They should drink more water or juice to reduce the heat and cool the system.
What are the precautions while taking neem?
Ingesting neem lowers the blood sugar levels in the body, and consuming it with antidiabetes drugs may further reduce the sugar level in the blood. Also, Neem helps boost the immune system's activity; therefore, it should not be taken with medications such as immunosuppressants, which decreases the activity of the immune system. Neem can have harmful effects if a person has an autoimmune disease (i.e., abnormal immune system activity) as it amplifies the activity of the immune system, which aggravates the symptoms.
Why should you take Honeyline Neem?
Honeyline Premium Ayurvedic brand provides the best quality products. Honeyline Neem has 10% Bitters (Limonoids) which is higher when compared to the powdered (non-concentrated) products in the market. 1gm of Honeyline Neem is equivalent to 17gm of raw Neem, which has only 0.6% Bitters.
Disclaimer:
This content is for information and educational purposes only and should not be perceived as medical advice. Please consult a certified medical or healthcare professional before making any decision regarding your health using the content above.
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