Medicinal Plants : Azadiracta indica

Name

Neem

Biological Name

Melia azadirachta , Azadiracta Indica
Meliaceae, Azedarach

Other Names

Neem, Nimba, Nimb Indian Lilac, Bead Tree, Holy Tree, Margosa Tree, Nim, Persian Lilac, Pride of China, Ravipriya, Veppu

Roots, leaves

whole plant

Description

This tree is found in the Western Himalayas of India, and in Iran. It is cultivated in other parts of India and the tropical regions of the world such as Indonesia, Australia, and West Africa. It is considered to be a vary valuable herb in Ayurvedic medicine and for a variety of folk applications.

Remedies For

Action

Root bark - antiperiodic, astringent, tonic

Bark of tree - astringent, antiperiodic, antiviral, bitter, tonic, vermifuge

Leaves - antiviral, discutient, emrnenagogue

Flowers-stimulant, stomachic, tonic

Fruit - anthelmintic, purgative, emollient

Juice- anthelmintic

Oil extracted from the nut- antiseptic, insecticide, local stimulant

Uses:

arthritis
blood - purifies and detoxifies
bronchitis
cough
diabetes
drowsiness
eczema
fever
jaundice
leukorrhea
malaria
nausea
obesity
parasites
rheumatism
skin diseases
syphilis
thirst
tumors
vomiting
worms

This herb is used in inflammatory and febrile diseases. It is also used for worm infestation. It is used for a variety of conditions in Ayurvedic Medicine, singly, and in combination.

Dosage

Infusion, decoction, powder, medicated ghee, or oil

Safety

No information about the safety of this herb is available. Use caution. Ayurvedic herbs are often taken in combination with others to neutralize the toxicity one herb with the opposing effect of other. Do not take except under the supervision of a qualified professional.