Neem Leaves – The one which keeps all diseases at bay

Neem is a tropical evergreen tree, been part of Asian medicines from time immemorial. Since ancient times the leaves and oil of neem tree have been used for the treatment of many different diseases.

It is mostly seen in tropical and semi-tropical regions, native to India and Indian Subcontinent countries like Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.  It is perhaps the most useful traditional medicinal plant in India. This unique tree has been described as sarva roga nivarini (that which keeps all diseases at bay) or arishtha (reliever of disease) in Ayurveda’s prime text, the Charaka Samhita. Therapeutic preparations make use of its roots, leaves, seed kernels, fruit, bark, gum and seed oil for both internal and topical use.

Neem trees are fast growing and can reach up to a height of 20-35 meters. It is known for its drought resistance qualities. At the time of severe drought, it may shed most or nearly all of its leaves. Neem trees has wide and spreading branches.

It has white and fragrant flowers. Fruits are smooth and olive-like shape with an outer fleshy part covering a shell of hardened endocarp with a seed. Neem leaves are recommended for the treatment of gastrointestinal problems and to prevent infections.

Helps to cure viral diseases

Since ancient times neem leaves are used to treat viral diseases. The extracts of neem leaves can absorb and destroy viruses. Neem pastes can be applied to the affected areas for treating warts and chicken pox. It absorbs viruses and  protects from entering the unaffected areas. Neem extracts can also help to accelerate the healing process. Consumption of neem tea can have a positive effect on boosting the immune system. Bathing in hot water with neem leaves can be an excellent remedy for various skin ailments.

Useful against various skin ailments

Nowadays neem is widely used in soaps, skin creams and body lotions for treating various skin related diseases. Neem can have a remarkable effect on chronic skin conditions that often failed to respond against medical drugs. Neem leaf can be used for treating acne, brown spots, scars and pigmentation.

Soak few neem leaves in water overnight and bathe with this water in the morning. This practice may help to reduce skin rashes and brown spots. Applying neem paste on your body before bathing can be useful against itching and various skin infections.

Neem trees

Effective against head lice

Neem is considered as one of the best natural home remedy for head lice. Neem contains an insecticidal ingredient called azadirachtin, which disrupts the growth of lice and eventually kill them. The pungent odor of neem can keep them away from crawling into you head. Thus the use of neem leaves or oil can also act as a preventive treatment. Neem is also associated with immense healing and soothing properties. Thus it helps with scalp irritation caused by constant scratching. Moreover neem moisturizes the scalp skin and adds shine and softness to your hair, as it is rich in fatty acids and glycerides.

Apply the paste of neem leaves on your hair and scalp. Once it is dried, rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water. Then comb out the hair using a lice comb. This method is effective in providing relief from scalp itching and irritations.

Can have detoxifying effects

The presence of active ingredients in neem helps to remove toxins from the body. Neem helps to stimulate the liver and kidney functions and results in eliminating the toxins quickly. It also optimize the metabolic activities of the body. A great deal of detritus accumulates on our skin every day. Applying neem leaves paste on our skin will neutralize the accumulated germs, microbes, dust, and grime that causes irritation and illness.