Health Benefits of Neem Leaves
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Aug 28, 2024 • 3 min Read
Neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves are known for their various medicinal properties and are traditionally used for their potential health benefits.
Neem leaves antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties are popular ingredients in skincare products. It has pesticidal, insecticidal, and anti-microbial properties. Neem is optimal for rehabilitating degraded ecosystems and wastelands since it aids flood control, prevents soil erosion, and reduces soil salinity.
Here are some of the amazing benefits of this powerful herb from the World Journal of Pharmaceutical and Medical Research:
1. Skin Conditions
Neem applications are effective on chronic skin conditions that often fail to respond to classical treatments. These conditions, among others, are acne, psoriasis, eczema, itching, rosacea, shingles, ringworm, athlete’s foot, herpes, fungal infections, cold sores, dandruff, dry skin, hemorrhoids, rash, skin ulcers, rheumatism, sprains, pain, warts, and wrinkles.
2. Hair and Nails
Scalp conditions including dandruff and psoriasis, scaling, and even hair loss respond to treatment with neem shampoo, conditioners, creams, tinctures, and capsules.
3. Teeth and Gums
Infection, tooth decay, bleeding, and sore gums have been treated very successfully through the daily application of neem mouth rinse or neem leaf extract added to water or using neem toothpaste.
4. Fungi, Parasites and Viruses
Neem proved under stringent laboratory conditions that it destroys harmful fungi, parasites, and viruses. Neem does not kill beneficial intestinal flora nor produce negative side effects. Neem was successful in treating stomach ulcers.
5. AIDS
Neem leaf extracts, tinctures, and capsules are utilized when treating this condition. The National Institutes of Health in the United States reported encouraging results from in vitro tests for neem as an antiviral agent against the AIDS virus.
6. Cancer
Neem has been tested on several types of cancer. Studies indicate that compounds found on neem are effective against lymphocytic cancer and reduce cancerous tumors.
7. Diabetes
Neem was found to reduce insulin requirements for diabetics by up to 50% for nonketotic, insulin-fast, and insulin-sensitive diabetes without altering blood glucose levels. This success made the Indian government approve the sale of neem capsules and tablets through pharmacies and clinics.
8. Heart Disease
Studies indicate its positive effects in controlling blood pressure and blood clots, delay the coagulation of blood, heart irregularities (palpitation), calmed erratic heartbeats, and help reduce elevated heart rates and high cholesterol levels. The antihistamine effect helps reduce elevated blood pressure.
9. Chronic Fatigue
Neem attacks viral and fungal infections that cause chronic fatigue. It helps fight this debilitating syndrome.
10. Minor Skin Abrasions
Use cream or leaf extract applied topically. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial attributes of neem are soothing.
11. Natural, Non-Toxic Insect Repellent
Neem repels all types of pests without being toxic to pets or humans. Studies show that one neem compound is a more effective insect repellent than the widely used synthetic chemical known as DEET, a suspected carcinogen.
Please note that while neem has potential benefits, its use should be done with caution. Some people may be allergic to neem, and excessive use of neem products can lead to side effects. Always consult with a healthcare professional or herbalist before using neem leaves or neem-based products for any specific health concern.
The neem tree is also often called “nature’s pharmacy”, a true gift from the natural world. Whether you’re sipping a neem tea or using neem capsules, embrace this traditional remedy for better skincare and overall wellness.
Stay healthy and safe!
