Neem

Neem is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 15– 20 metres (49– 66 ft), and hardly ever 35– 40 m (115– 131 feet). It is deciduous, shedding a number of its leaves during the dry winter season. The branches are large and spreading. The relatively thick crown is roundish and might 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 often is missing out on. The petioles are short.

White and aromatic flowers are organized in more-or-less drooping axillary panicles which depend on 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 exact same private tree.

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

The neem tree is frequently puzzled with a similar looking tree called bakain. Bakain also has toothed brochures and similar looking fruit. One distinction is that neem leaves are pinnate but bakain leaves are twice- and thrice-pinnate. [1]

Introduction

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

Neem leaf is used 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 illness (gingivitis), and liver problems. The leaf is also used for birth control and to trigger abortions.

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

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

The fruit is utilized for piles, digestive tract worms, urinary system conditions, bloody nose, phlegm, eye disorders, diabetes, injuries, and leprosy.

Neem branches are used for cough, asthma, piles, digestive worms, low sperm levels, urinary disorders, and diabetes. Individuals in the tropics sometimes chew neem branches instead of using toothbrushes, however this can trigger health problem; neem branches are typically infected with fungis within 2 weeks of harvest and must be prevented.

The seed and seed oil are used for leprosy and digestive worms. They are also utilized for contraception and to cause abortions.

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

Some people use neem directly 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 also used as an insecticide. [2]

History

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

Active Compounds of Azadirachta indica L. (Neem)

Azadirachta indica L. (neem) reveals rehabs role in health management due to abundant source of various kinds of active ingredients. 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 purified from neem fresh leaves and were understood to have antibacterial and antifungal homes and seeds hold valuable constituents including gedunin and azadirachtin. [4]

Characteristic of Neem:

Neem, due to its prospective properties, has been used in Ayurvedic medication for more than 4000 years. Neem products have numerous residential or commercial properties and may have applications in different fields making neem a green treasure.

• It might have anti-allergenic activity
• It might have anti-dermatic activity and may be practical 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, an itchy skin problem
• It may have anti-diabetic activity
• It may have an anti-cancer potential
• It might have diuretic activity and might help the body eliminate additional fluid (by making more urine)
• It might have an insecticidal activity and might help in damaging or controlling insects
• It might have larvicidal activity and might help in eliminating larval pests
• It might have nematocidal activity and may assist to kill nematodes (worms that reside in soil)
• It may have anti-microbial activity and may assist combat infection. [5]

Potential health benefits of neem

Although clinical research into neem remains in its beginning stages, it reveals pledge for several elements of health, including blood glucose management, as well as advantages for your hair, skin, teeth, liver, and kidneys.

Remember that further human studies are required.

May promote hair health

Neem seed extract contains azadirachtin, an active compound that might fight parasites that impact hair and skin, such as lice. Azadirachtin works by interfering with parasite development and interfering with recreation and other cellular processes.

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

Neem extract and nimbidin, a substance discovered in neem oil, might likewise deal with dandruff due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial residential or commercial properties. Dandruff and scalp irritation might result from fungal accumulation on the scalp.

Might increase dental 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 residential or commercial properties might promote oral health. Although more research study is needed, studies indicate that neem may alleviate discomfort and help deal with gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth decay.

Moreover, test-tube research studies suggest that neem may decrease bacteria’s capability to colonize the surface of your teeth, therefore lowering plaque formation.

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

Might aid liver and kidney health

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

Oxidative tension is caused by a buildup of unstable particles called complimentary radicals. Although your body naturally produces complimentary radicals as a byproduct of metabolism, external sources increase their existence.

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 discovered that neem leaf extract reduced liver damage induced by high-dose acetaminophen.

Another rat study showed comparable results, suggesting that neem extract enhanced kidney tissue damage triggered by chemotherapy medication.

Nevertheless, research studies in humans are needed.

May improve skin health

Neem seed oil is rich in fatty acids, consisting of oleic, stearic, palmitic, and linoleic acids. Collectively, these fatty acids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial residential or commercial properties that promote healthy skin.

Remember that while Ayurvedic medicine– an Indian conventional healing system– uses neem to deal with psoriasis and eczema, extremely few clinical studies support these claims.

Acne

Historically, neem has actually been utilized to treat acne, lower acnes, and enhance skin flexibility.

Indeed, research studies recommend that neem oil’s anti-bacterial residential or commercial properties battle acne.

A test-tube research study revealed that neem oil might help long-lasting acne treatment when added to solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), a new type of drug solution that offers a steady release of active components.

All the same, research in human beings is required.

Ulcer and wound recovery

Animal research studies suggest that neem leaf extract accelerates wound recovery through an increased inflammatory action and the development of new blood vessels.

In a 2013, 34-day case study, applying 100 mg of neem oil topically two times everyday totally recovered chronic skin ulcers.

In another study, 6 people with digestive ulcers took 30 mg of neem extract orally two times daily. After 10 days, acid secretion had declined considerably, and after 10 weeks, the ulcers were practically entirely recovered.

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

Other prospective benefits

Neem may have numerous other health advantages, though outcomes are combined, and further studies in individuals are essential.

Antimalarial results

Neem contains active compounds called limonoids. A research study in mice found that limonoids might be as reliable at targeting malaria-infected cells as traditional treatments using chloroquine.

However, some test-tube research studies reveal no favorable impact of neem extract on malaria results.

Bear in mind that neem is not widely used to treat malaria at this time.

Antifertility treatment

Neem has actually likewise been considered as an alternative to a birth control due to its antifertility results. A birth control is a surgery that sanitizes individuals with testicles by stopping the release of sperm.

Animal research studies keep in mind that neem may debilitate and kill sperm without any long-lasting repercussions.

Diabetes management

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

That’s since 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 restorative results, results are inconclusive since they’re based on test-tube and animal research study with extremely few human research studies. [6]

Neem Flowers

A lot of parts of the neem tree are awfully bitter, with the exception of its flowers. White and fragile, neem flowers with their off-white buds are nearly too quite to be eaten and amazingly therapeutic. The flowers have a sweet, practically magical jasmine like scent during the night and bloom when in the afternoon and after that once again in the evening. During the monsoon, you’ll see a bunch of them spread right under the tree. Also called Vepampoo in Tamil, these neem flowers can be used fresh, dried or in a powdered kind. They’re utilized typically in the South to cook a number of meals: flower rice, pachadi, rasam, lentils and more. They’re frequently dry roasted and sprinkled on top of the meal to garnish as well.Neem flowers can be utilized to deal with anorexia, nausea, belching and intestinal worms. Ayurveda recommends neem leaves are good for the eyes and beneficial in dealing with skin disease and headaches. They’re used in aromatherapy because of their soothing effect. A 2008 research study likewise found the alcoholic extract of the neem flowers to be an effective contraceptive.

Benefits of neem leaves: Neem flowers can be used to treat anorexia, queasiness, belching and intestinal worms.

Neem Twigs and Bark

If you were born in India, you would have seen individuals chew away at a neem branch. For many years now, a neem branch is what individuals used as a make-do tooth brush. It fights germs, keeps the alkaline levels in your saliva, keeps germs at bay, treats swollen gums and also provides you whiter teeth. The twig also shreds into threads, practically like bristles that also destroy and prevent plaque.Neem OilNeem oil that’s extracted from neem seeds is abundant in medicinal properties which are what makes it a terrific ingredient in cosmetics and other beauty products: soaps, hair oil, hand wash, soap etc. It can deal with a bunch of skin diseases and is understood 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, little kids are fed neem oil as a type of cure-all. Besides being such an excellent Ayurvedic therapist, neem oil can be utilized to safeguard other plants. It can likewise be utilized in creams, soaps and other cosmetic items. Here are some terrific 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 get rid of blackheads and avoid them from coming back.
2. Anti-ageing: Neem oil is incredibly nourishing and can be added to your face packs. It also helps aging skin, any sort of skin inflammation and itching.
3. For great 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, prevent hair fall and deal with dandruff. [7]

Uses

Individuals most frequently use neem in hair and skin care items. Some individuals take neem extract pills, however there is not presently adequate research study to state whether they have any medical benefits.

The oil is yellow or brown and smells of garlic or sulfur. If consumed, 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 useful for:.

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

Lice: The results of a small research study indicated that neem is an effective anti-lice and anti-nit agent. The study just evaluated 12 children with lice, but all were completely 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 side effects.

Dental products, consisting of mouthwashes, tooth pastes, and tooth powders, can also contain neem. Neem can reduce pain from toothache and improve dental health by cleaning the teeth and gums and alleviating gingivitis. [8]

Potential uses of Neem for Cancer:

Flavonoids and other chemicals found in neem might contribute versus the worsening of cancer. Numerous studies recommend 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 required to show its potential usage. Furthermore, cancer is a serious condition and you need to consult a qualified physician for its medical diagnosis and treatment.

Potential uses of Neem for Infections:

Viral infections: Neem may aid with dengue fever by potentially stopping the growth of the dengue virus. It might interfere with the duplication of the coxsackie B infection, a group of infections that causes conditions varying from stomach upset to full-fledged infections in people. Neem leaf has actually generally been utilized for viral diseases such as chickenpox and smallpox also. However, more studies are needed to show such claims.

Bacterial infections and Skin infections: Recent studies have actually concentrated on antibacterial activities of neem in the mouth, specifically in gum illness and tooth cavities.

Neem is likewise thought to be very effective in managing scabies, however sufficient clinical data does not exist for human studies.

Since neem might have potential antimicrobial residential or commercial properties, it might be helpful for numerous skin problems and diseases such as acne, eczema, and other skin problem. Neem oil might also help with psoriasis symptoms. However, more research is required to back up such claims.

Fungal infections: Studies have actually shown that neem may have antifungal characteristics, which may assist with fungal infections like professional athlete’s foot, ringworm and candida fungus, 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 capsules

Neem capsules have blood-purifying residential or commercial properties that have actually assisted many people to get much healthier and glowing skin. In this circumstance, lots of people experience illness brought on by their weak immune systems. But neem capsules have helped these patients get a strong immune system by taking these neem pills under a physician’s supervision. Neem capsules function as blood cleansers in our bodies. And also enhances the metabolism in our body. [10]

What Are the Adverse Effects of Neem?

Consuming a supplement like neem might have possible negative effects. These adverse effects may prevail or severe. Due to absence of research, little is known about the safety of short-term or long-term use of neem; however, there are some possible concerns and negative effects.

Topical usage (put on skin) can trigger:

Allergic dermatitis (skin inflammation).

Dermatitis on the scalp (utilized by a private with hair loss).

Neem oil should not be consumed orally.

• Oral intake can cause:
• Vomiting
• Drowsiness
• Diarrhea
• Encephalopathy (diffuse illness 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 kidney failure in a specific after taking a Chinese herbal medication. The medication, based on the report, included neem as one of the primary components (1 ). Though no direct link had been established between neem intake and kidney damage, it is very important to be mindful. The trend of poisonous kidney injuries with respect to natural medicines is most likely to continue (1 ). Hence, exercise caution.

Some think that excess intake of neem may likewise harm 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 before consuming neem.

May Lower Blood Sugar Level Method Too Much

In a research study, a combination of neem and longevity spinach (a type of spinach discovered in China) was discovered to have hypoglycemic residential or commercial properties.

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

Doctors recommend small amounts of neem oil for people with diabetes as it manages blood sugar level levels. But, when taken in excess, the drop may end up being extreme. Hypoglycemia might cause lightheadedness and weakness (fatigue).

May Cause Minimized Fertility

In rat studies, the administration of neem flower extracts blocked ovulation partially. Though neem could be used as an antifertility agent when needed, it may also reduce fertility even when not preferred.

In studies done on rats, mice, bunnies, and guinea pigs, neem was discovered to reduce 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 think that farmers use neem pesticides to cause infertility in the insects so that they do not multiply, resulting the exact same in individuals who expose themselves to these pesticides. These pesticides are understood to disrupt the direction of the sperms and take a toll on the immune system. However, research is doing not have in this element.

May Cause Miscarriage

In animal studies, neem extracts were discovered to cause pregnancy. The extracts might terminate a pregnancy without any visible negative effects in both rodents and monkeys. Though this could be desirable for somebody seeking to abort the child, for those who are anticipating to conceive, neem consumption may not be advised.

Some theories specify that too much exposure to neem may cause the body immune system to become hyperactive. This might lead the body to reject the sperm cells and eject them from the conceived embryo. However, there is insufficient info to validate this.

May Cause Allergic Reactions

A study goes over a case of allergic contact stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth) after the consumption of neem leaves when each week for three consecutive weeks.

Though neem is most frequently used for dealing with allergies and rashes, its excessive usage may lead to allergic reactions. We require more research study to further understand the other allergies the use of neem might trigger.

May Cause Infant Deaths

Studies have actually revealed that neem could be hazardous to infants. Dosages of neem oil (as small as 5 ml) had led to infant deaths.

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

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

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

Insufficient Evidence For The Following:

There is less info and research about the following adverse effects. These have actually only been validated by anecdotal proof. However, if you experience any of these adverse effects after ingesting neem, please stop use and consult your medical professional.

May Cause Stomach Irritation

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

May Overstimulate Your Body Immune System

Usage of neem or neem-based products can boost the body immune system. However, heavy doses of neem (specifically in clients with conditions) might overstimulate the body immune system and trigger complications.

Patients who have actually undergone organ transplants might also need to stay away from neem. The leaves are thought to interact with immunosuppressant medications during surgeries.

Nevertheless, there is insufficient info in this regard.

The benefits of neem are comprehensive and wonderful. When taken in the required quantities, it can promote your overall health. However, if you go beyond the advised dosage, it might trigger kidney damage, substantially lower blood glucose levels, lead to decreased fertility, trigger allergic reactions, trigger miscarriage, overstimulate the body immune system, and trigger stomach irritation. It can also be toxic to babies. Hence, care is highly recommended when consuming it. Nevertheless, including 2 to 3 neem leaves or 4 ml of neem juice in your routine assists reap its advantages. [12]

Precautions

When taken by mouth: Neem bark extract is perhaps safe for the majority of adults when used short-term. Doses of up to 60 mg daily for approximately 10 weeks have been utilized securely. Neem is possibly hazardous 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 potentially safe when applied to the skin for as much as 2 weeks.

When applied inside the mouth: Neem leaf extract gel is potentially safe when applied inside the mouth for as much as 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 sufficient dependable details to understand if neem is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid usage.

Kids: Neem extract shampoo is perhaps safe in children when applied one or two times to the head for 10 minutes, then washed with warm water. Taking neem seeds and seed oil by mouth is likely risky in children. Severe adverse effects in babies and small children can happen within hours after taking neem oil. These severe negative effects consist of throwing up, diarrhea, sleepiness, seizures, loss of consciousness, 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 body immune system to end up being more active. This might increase the symptoms of auto-immune diseases. If you have among these conditions, it’s finest to prevent utilizing neem.

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

Organ transplant: There is an issue that neem may reduce the result of medications that are utilized to prevent organ rejection. Do not utilize neem if you have had an organ transplant.

Surgical treatment: Neem may reduce blood sugar level levels. There is an issue that it may hinder blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop utilizing neem a minimum of 2 weeks prior to a scheduled surgical treatment. [13]

Conclusion

Neem is a distinct plant because all its parts– its leaves, flowers, seeds, fruit, root, and bark– exhibit medicinal properties.

Although scientific research study on this supplement is still in its early stages, proof suggests that it may treat dandruff, lice, gingivitis, and oral plaque, in addition to promote injury healing.

However, dosage details is currently unknown, and a lack of guideline indicates that numerous neem products aren’t evaluated for security and purity. Hence, it’s finest to talk with a health care professional before attempting any neem item. [14]

References

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