Neem is an Ayurvedic medicinal plant which has numerous health benefits besides being rich in bacterial, insecticide and many other properties. It is used to treat skin diseases, infertility and tooth related diseases. The leaves are bitter in taste which makes many people feel uncomfortable. Doctors recommend drinking neem juice due to its antioxidant properties which help in cleaning body and prevent many kinds of ailments.
Neem is considered to be a virtue of a millennia. Before toothbrushes came into the market, Indians used neem sticks to brush teeth. Even now, in many rural areas, people still prefer neem twigs as toothbrush which help in maintaining oral hygiene.
Neem leaves, bark, flower, fruits, seeds, twigs even roots all are of high medicinal value and used in different ways. Neem tree is special due to its anti-viral, anti-bacterial, antimalarial, antioxidant and antiseptic properties. Each and every part of the tree has high medicinal value which makes this plant unique.
Neem tree is said to be originated on the Indian subcontinent and is found almost every part of the country. It is also found in neighbouring countries like Nepal, Sri lanka, Pakistan, Indonesia, Thailand Myanmar etc. This tree is native to India but due to its medicinal value,now a days it is been cultivated in Africa, Australia and many subtropical countries.
In the Atharva veda, which is one of ancient hindu book, the word 'Nimba' is derived from 'Nimabati Swasthyamghati' meaning 'Maintain Good Health'. Since Neem is a good contributor to maintain good health and is a disease preventor, it got the name of Nimba.
The neem tree is a highly revered tree among Hindus. It is a manifestation of "Goddess Durga". Some sects in south India while worshipping the goddess dress in red colour & carry branches of neem and dance in public places, this ritual signifies in purifying the surroundings.
Neem tree can grow to a height of 15-20 meters or more. Its stem is straight and thick. It is fast growing tree and evergreen but in severe drought it may shed most or nearly all of its leaves. Its leaves are pinnate. The neem tree produces a smooth yellow-green fruit and has a small white flowers and the branches are wide spread.
Benefits of Neem:
Removes skin problem, Purifies blood, Reduces inflammation of Arthritis, Cures cancer, Eliminates stomach worms, Keeps mouth healthy, Removes head lice, Controls blood sugar or diabetes, Fights with problems in nails, Remove toxin from the body, Reduce pimples and boils, Fights in dental problems, Removes dandruff etc