Neem

Neem is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 15– 20 metres (49– 66 feet), and rarely 35– 40 m (115– 131 ft). It is deciduous, shedding much of its leaves during the dry winter months. The branches are large and dispersing. The relatively thick crown is roundish and might reach a diameter of 20– 25 m (66– 82 ft). The neem tree is similar in appearance 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 brochure typically is missing. The petioles are short.

White and aromatic flowers are arranged in more-or-less drooping axillary panicles which depend on 25 cm (10 in) long. The inflorescences, which branch approximately 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 exact same private tree.

The fruit is a smooth (glabrous), olive-like drupe which differs in shape from lengthen oval to almost 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 very fibrous. The mesocarp is 3– 5 mm (1⁄8– 1⁄4 in) thick. The white, hard inner shell (endocarp) of the fruit confines one, rarely two, or 3, elongated seeds (kernels) having a brown seed coat.

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

Summary

Neem is a tree. The bark, leaves, and seeds are used to make medicine. Less frequently, the root, flower, and fruit are also utilized.

Neem leaf is utilized for leprosy, eye disorders, bloody nose, digestive worms, indigestion, anorexia nervosa, skin ulcers, diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular disease), fever, diabetes, gum disease (gingivitis), and liver issues. The leaf is likewise utilized for contraception and to cause abortions.

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

The flower is used for minimizing bile, managing phlegm, and treating intestinal worms.

The fruit is used for hemorrhoids, digestive tract worms, urinary tract disorders, bloody nose, phlegm, eye disorders, diabetes, wounds, and leprosy.

Neem branches are used for cough, asthma, piles, digestive tract worms, low sperm levels, urinary disorders, and diabetes. Individuals in the tropics often chew neem twigs instead of utilizing tooth brushes, but this can trigger illness; neem branches are typically polluted with fungi within 2 weeks of harvest and must be prevented.

The seed and seed oil are utilized for leprosy and intestinal tract worms. They are likewise used for contraception and to cause abortions.

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

Some individuals apply neem directly to the skin to deal with head lice, skin diseases, injuries, and skin ulcers; as a mosquito repellent; and as a skin softener.

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

Neem is likewise utilized as an insecticide. [2]

History

Neem is likely belonging to the Indian subcontinent and to dry locations throughout South Asia. It has been introduced to parts of Africa, the Caribbean, and many counties in South and Central America. The plant has long been used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine and is used 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 different types of components. The most crucial active constituent is azadirachtin and the others are nimbolinin, nimbin, nimbidin, nimbidol, sodium nimbinate, gedunin, salannin, and quercetin. Leaves consist of ingredients 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 cleansed from neem fresh leaves and were understood to have antibacterial and antifungal homes and seeds hold valuable constituents consisting of gedunin and azadirachtin. [4]

Residence of Neem:

Neem, due to its potential homes, has been used in Ayurvedic medication for more than 4000 years. Neem products have several residential or commercial properties and might have applications in various fields making neem a green treasure.

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

Prospective health benefits of neem

Although clinical research study into neem is in its beginning phases, it reveals promise for numerous elements of health, consisting of blood sugar level management, along with benefits for your hair, skin, teeth, liver, and kidneys.

Remember that further human research studies are required.

Might promote hair health

Neem seed extract includes azadirachtin, an active substance that might fight parasites that impact hair and skin, such as lice. Azadirachtin works by interrupting parasite development and disrupting recreation and other cellular processes.

In a study that tested 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 compound discovered in neem oil, might also treat dandruff due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial homes. Dandruff and scalp irritation may arise from fungal buildup on the scalp.

May boost oral and oral health

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

Neem’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting homes might promote oral health. Although more research study is required, studies suggest that neem might ease discomfort and aid deal with gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth decay.

Additionally, test-tube studies suggest that neem may minimize bacteria’s ability to colonize the surface area of your teeth, therefore reducing plaque formation.

Plus, in a 21-day research study including 45 people with gingivitis, neem mouthwash was discovered to be as reliable as chlorhexidine mouthwash– a sturdy prescription mouthwash– at decreasing gum bleeding and plaque.

May aid liver and kidney health

Neem’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory residential or commercial properties might help combat oxidative tension, which might in turn promote liver and kidney health.

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

Some drugs, consisting of cancer medication, painkillers, and antipsychotics, might add to oxidative tension, leading to tissue damage in your liver and kidneys.

Interestingly, one research study on rats found that neem leaf extract reduced liver damage caused by high-dose acetaminophen.

Another rat research study revealed comparable results, recommending that neem extract improved kidney tissue damage triggered by chemotherapy medication.

Nevertheless, research studies in human beings are required.

Might enhance skin health

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

Bear in mind that while Ayurvedic medication– an Indian traditional healing system– uses neem to treat psoriasis and eczema, extremely few scientific studies support these claims.

Acne

Historically, neem has been utilized to treat acne, minimize imperfections, and improve skin flexibility.

Certainly, research studies suggest that neem oil’s anti-bacterial properties combat acne.

A test-tube study showed that neem oil may help long-lasting acne treatment when contributed to strong lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), a brand-new kind of drug formula that offers a steady release of active components.

All the same, research study in humans is needed.

Ulcer and wound recovery

Animal studies suggest that neem leaf extract accelerates wound 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 daily completely healed chronic skin ulcers.

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

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

Other prospective benefits

Neem may have a number of other health benefits, though results are combined, and further studies in people are required.

Antimalarial impacts

Neem contains active substances called limonoids. A research study in mice discovered that limonoids may be as reliable at targeting malaria-infected cells as standard treatments using chloroquine.

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

Keep in mind that neem is not extensively used to deal with malaria at this time.

Antifertility treatment

Neem has likewise been thought about as an alternative to a birth control due to its antifertility results. A birth control is a surgical procedure that disinfects individuals with testicles by stopping the release of sperm.

Animal studies keep in mind that neem might debilitate and kill sperm with no long-term effects.

Diabetes management

Some animal research studies indicate that neem leaf extract may be a candidate for brand-new diabetes medications.

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

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

Although neem appears to have many healing results, results are undetermined given that they’re based upon test-tube and animal research study with really few human studies. [6]

Neem Flowers

A lot of parts of the neem tree are awfully bitter, with the exception of its flowers. White and delicate, neem flowers with their off-white buds are practically too quite to be eaten and amazingly therapeutic. The flowers have a sweet, practically magical jasmine like fragrance during the night and bloom when in the afternoon and then again in the evening. During the monsoon, you’ll see a bunch of them scattered right under the tree. Also known as Vepampoo in Tamil, these neem flowers can be used fresh, dried or in a powdered form. They’re used typically in the South to cook a number of dishes: flower rice, pachadi, rasam, lentils and more. They’re frequently dry roasted and sprinkled on top of the dish to garnish as well.Neem flowers can be used to deal with anorexia, nausea, burping and intestinal worms. Ayurveda suggests neem leaves benefit the eyes and beneficial in treating skin disease and headaches. They’re utilized in aromatherapy because of their calming result. A 2008 research study likewise found the alcoholic extract of the neem flowers to be an efficient contraceptive.

Advantages of neem leaves: Neem flowers can be utilized to deal with anorexia, queasiness, belching and intestinal worms.

Neem Twigs and Bark

If you were born in India, you would have seen people chew away at a neem twig. For several years now, a neem twig is what people used as a make-do tooth brush. It combats germs, maintains the alkaline levels in your saliva, keeps germs at bay, deals with swollen gums and also gives you whiter teeth. The branch likewise shreds into threads, practically like bristles that also destroy and avoid plaque.Neem OilNeem oil that’s drawn out from neem seeds is rich in medical homes which are what makes it a great component in cosmetics and other charm products: soaps, hair oil, hand wash, soap etc. It can deal with a bunch of skin diseases and is known to be an outstanding mosquito repellent. You can blend it with coconut oil and apply it over your body too. It is thought that in India, children are fed neem oil as a type of cure-all. Besides being such an excellent Ayurvedic healer, neem oil can be utilized to secure other plants. It can also be utilized in creams, soaps and other cosmetic products. Here are some great uses of neem oil you might 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 regularly to get rid of blackheads and prevent them from returning.
2. Anti-ageing: Neem oil is very nourishing and can be contributed 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 enhance your hair, avoid hair fall and deal with dandruff. [7]

Utilizes

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

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

Little research is readily available on neem’s impact on hair health, but anecdotal evidence suggests that it might be helpful for:.

Dandruff: Neem is a popular component in numerous anti-dandruff hair shampoos. Although there has been no research to support its usage, neem is an anti-inflammatory and an anti-microbial, which might help reduce the symptoms associated with dandruff.

Lice: The outcomes of a little research study suggested that neem is a reliable anti-lice and anti-nit agent. The research study just checked 12 kids with lice, but all were entirely lice- and nit-free after treatment with a neem-based shampoo. No lice were present for 7– 10 days after treatment, and there were no negative effects.

Dental items, including mouthwashes, toothpastes, and tooth powders, can likewise contain neem. Neem can minimize pain from toothache and enhance dental health by cleaning up the teeth and gums and alleviating gingivitis. [8]

Potential uses of Neem for Cancer:

Flavonoids and other chemicals discovered in neem may contribute versus the worsening of cancer. Several studies suggest that high flavonoids might help stop the growth of cancer. Neem and its extracts have a prospective action versus a wide variety of cancer cells in humans that consist of cancers of the skin, breast, lung, oral, stomach, liver, colon, and prostate. Nevertheless, a lot more comprehensive research is needed to prove its prospective usage. Moreover, cancer is a serious condition and you should consult a certified physician for its diagnosis and treatment.

Potential uses of Neem for Infections:

Viral infections: Neem may help with dengue fever by potentially stopping the development of the dengue virus. It may interfere with the replication of the coxsackie B virus, a group of infections that causes disorders ranging from indigestion to full-fledged infections in humans. Neem leaf has actually generally been used for viral illness such as chickenpox and smallpox too. Nevertheless, more research studies are required to show such claims.

Bacterial infections and Skin infections: Recent studies have actually concentrated on anti-bacterial activities of neem in the mouth, specifically in gum disease and tooth cavities.

Neem is also believed to be really effective in handling scabies, however enough scientific information does not exist for human studies.

Given that neem might have prospective antimicrobial residential or commercial properties, it may be useful for various skin problems and diseases such as acne, eczema, and other skin problem. Neem oil might likewise aid with psoriasis symptoms. Nevertheless, more research is required to back up such claims.

Fungal infections: Studies have actually shown that neem may have antifungal qualities, which may aid with fungal infections like professional athlete’s foot, ringworm and yeast, frequently 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. Nevertheless, more research is required. [9]

Neem pills

Neem capsules have blood-purifying properties that have actually helped many individuals to get much healthier and radiant skin. In this scenario, lots of people experience diseases caused by their weak body immune systems. However neem pills have actually assisted these patients get a strong body immune system by taking these neem pills under a physician’s supervision. Neem capsules function as blood cleansers in our bodies. And likewise improves the metabolic process in our body. [10]

What Are the Side Effects of Neem?

Consuming a supplement like neem may have possible adverse effects. These adverse effects might be common or extreme. Due to absence of research study, little is understood about the security of short-term or long-term use of neem; nevertheless, there are some possible issues and negative effects.

Topical usage (put on skin) can cause:

Allergic dermatitis (skin inflammation).

Dermatitis on the scalp (used by an individual with loss of hair).

Neem oil need to not be consumed orally.

• Oral consumption can cause:
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea
• Encephalopathy (diffuse disease of the brain that impacts its function or structure)
• Seizures and coma [11]

May Cause Kidney Damage

A study reports of a case of severe renal failure in a private after taking a Chinese organic medication. The medication, based on the report, consisted of neem as one of the primary ingredients (1 ). Though no direct link had actually been established between neem consumption and kidney damage, it is important to be cautious. The trend of hazardous renal injuries with respect to herbal medications is likely to continue (1 ). Thus, workout caution.

Some think that excess intake of neem might also damage the liver. There is no research to support this. But to be on the safe side, if you have liver concerns, please consult your medical professional prior to taking in neem.

May Lower Blood Sugar Way Too Much

In a study, a combination of neem and durability spinach (a type of spinach found in China) was found to have hypoglycemic properties.

Though the hypoglycemic impacts of neem seem preferable, if you are on medications for reducing blood sugar, please talk to your medical professional before ingesting neem.

Medical professionals recommend small amounts of neem oil for people with diabetes as it manages blood glucose levels. However, when taken in excess, the drop may become severe. Hypoglycemia might cause lightheadedness and weakness (tiredness).

May Cause Reduced Fertility

In rat studies, the administration of neem flower extracts obstructed ovulation partly. Though neem could be utilized as an antifertility representative when needed, it may likewise decrease fertility even when not wanted.

In research studies done on rats, mice, bunnies, and guinea pigs, neem was found to decrease male fertility. In male rats, this decrease was as much as 67% in simply 6 weeks. However, neem didn’t appear to stop sperm production.

Some experts theorize that farmers utilize neem pesticides to trigger infertility in the insects so that they do not increase, resulting the exact same in people who expose themselves to these pesticides. These pesticides are known to interrupt the instructions of the sperms and take a toll on the immune system. However, research study is doing not have in this aspect.

May Cause Miscarriage

In animal studies, neem extracts were found to cause pregnancy. The extracts might end a pregnancy without any noticeable negative effects in both rodents and monkeys. Though this could be desirable for someone seeking to abort the child, for those who are anticipating to develop, neem intake might not be advised.

Some theories specify that overexposure to neem might trigger the immune system to end up being hyper. This might lead the body to reject the sperm cells and eject them from the developed embryo. Nevertheless, there is insufficient info to substantiate this.

May Cause Allergic Reactions

A research study discusses a case of allergic contact stomatitis (swelling of the mouth) after the intake of neem leaves once every week for 3 consecutive weeks.

Though neem is most typically used for treating allergic reactions and rashes, its excessive use might lead to allergies. We need more research study to even more understand the other allergic reactions the use of neem may cause.

May Lead To Infant Deaths

Research studies have actually revealed that neem could be poisonous to infants. Doses of neem oil (as small as 5 ml) had actually resulted in crib death.

Animal research studies also showed the toxicity of neem oil at dosages as low as 12 to 24 ml per kg of body weight.

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

The substances in neem are known to trigger symptoms of Reye’s syndrome in babies when exposed to neem oil. The usage of the tiniest dosage can be fatal for babies.

Inadequate Evidence For The Following:

There is less information and research about the following adverse effects. These have just been confirmed by anecdotal proof. However, if you experience any of these negative effects after consuming neem, please stop usage and consult your doctor.

May Cause Stomach Irritation

Excess inhalation or intake of neem might trigger indigestion or stomach irritation. More research study is needed to comprehend how this takes place.

May Overstimulate Your Body Immune System

Consumption of neem or neem-based items can boost the immune system. However, heavy dosages of neem (specifically in patients with ailments) might overstimulate the immune system and trigger problems.

Clients who have undergone organ transplants might also need to stay away from neem. The leaves are believed to interact with immunosuppressant medications throughout surgeries.

However, there is insufficient information in this regard.

The benefits of neem are comprehensive and fantastic. When taken in the needed quantities, it can promote your overall health. Nevertheless, if you go beyond the advised dose, it may trigger kidney damage, substantially lower blood sugar levels, result in decreased fertility, trigger allergic reactions, cause miscarriage, overstimulate the body immune system, and trigger stomach inflammation. It can also be harmful to infants. Hence, caution is extremely advised when consuming it. However, including 2 to 3 neem leaves or 4 ml of neem juice in your regular helps gain its advantages. [12]

Safety measures

When taken by mouth: Neem bark extract is potentially safe for most adults when used short-term. Dosages of as much as 60 mg daily for approximately 10 weeks have been used securely. Neem is possibly risky when taken by mouth in large doses or for extended periods of time. It might 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 applied inside the mouth: Neem leaf extract gel is perhaps safe when applied inside the mouth for approximately 6 weeks. Pregnancy: Neem oil and neem bark are likely hazardous when taken by mouth during pregnancy. They can trigger a miscarriage.

Breast-feeding: There isn’t sufficient trustworthy info to know if neem is safe to use when breast-feeding. Remain on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: Neem extract hair shampoo is perhaps safe in children when applied once or twice to the head for 10 minutes, then washed with warm water. Taking neem seeds and seed oil by mouth is most likely risky in children. Serious adverse effects in infants and kids can happen within hours after taking neem oil. These severe side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, seizures, loss of awareness, coma, and death.

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

Decreased ability to have kids (infertility): There is some proof that neem can damage sperm. It might also decrease fertility in other ways. If you are attempting to have kids, avoid using neem.

Organ transplant: There is a concern that neem may decrease the result of medications that are used to prevent organ rejection. Do not use neem if you have had an organ transplant.

Surgery: Neem may lower blood sugar level levels. There is an issue that it may hinder blood sugar level control throughout and after surgery. Stop utilizing neem a minimum of 2 weeks before an arranged surgery. [13]

Conclusion

Neem is a special plant in that all its parts– its leaves, flowers, seeds, fruit, root, and bark– display medical homes.

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

Nevertheless, dosage details is presently unknown, and a lack of policy means that lots of neem products aren’t evaluated for security and purity. Hence, it’s finest to talk with a healthcare expert prior to attempting any neem item. [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