What is a neem tree?
Before the health benefits of a neem tree will be looked at, we shall dive into their nature and origin.
Neem trees are appealing expansive leaved evergreens that can grow up to 30 m tall and 2.5 m in circumference. The branches can grow up to 20 meters round. Except for extreme drought, when the leaves may fall off, they remain in leaf. The bark is moderately thick and strongly furrowed on the short, typically straight trunk. Wherever the location permits it, the roots penetrate the soil deeply and produce suckers, particularly when injured. This sucking is usually common in dry areas.
Regrowth from both pollarding and coppicing can be uncommonly quick. The root system is sufficiently huge. It takes care of a completely mature tree.
The little, white, sexually unbiased blossoms are borne in axillary groups. They have a honey-like fragrance and draw in numerous honey bees. Neem honey contains no hint of azadirachtin.
The fruit is an elliptical, smooth drupe that can be nearly 2 centimeters long. It has a sweet pulp that contains a seed. Neem fruit is yellow or greenish-yellow when ripe. There is a shell and a kernel, sometimes two or three kernels. That makes up the seed. Each kernel accounts for about half of the seed’s weight. The leaves also have ingredients that kill pests. They work much less well than the seeds.
A neem tree typically begins producing fruit after three to five years. It is fully productive after ten years. Also, it can continue to produce up to 50 kilograms of fruits annually after that. It might live for over two centuries.
What is the origin of the neem tree?
Neem is believed to have come from Assam and Burma. Siwalik hill is a place neem trees grow even in the dry season. Some claim that neem is indigenous to the whole Indian subcontinent. Others place their origins in the arid forests of South and Southeast Asia, including Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Indians use neem trees often. From the southernmost tip of Kerala to the Himalayan Mountains. Tropical to subtropical climates are favorable for neem tree growth. Semi-arid to the wet tropical zone. Neem elevations range from sea level to roughly 700 m.
As already noted, neem was introduced to Africa earlier this century. It is now well established in at least 30 countries, particularly those in the regions along the Sahara’s southern fringe, where it has become an important provider of both fuel and lumber. Although widely naturalized, it has nowhere become a pest. Indeed, it seems rather well ”domesticated”: it appears to thrive in villages and towns.
What are the health benefits of a neem tree?
Below are the health benefits of a neem tree:
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Treatment of fungal Infections:
Neem has antifungal properties. This has been scientifically proven to help treat fungal infections.
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Detoxification Properties:
Both internally and externally, neem can help with detoxification. The consumption of neem leaves or powder stimulates the kidneys and liver. This increases metabolism and removes toxins from the body.
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Treatment of Acne:
Neem has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in acne reduction. Azadirachta Indica also aids in the reduction of skin blemishes.
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Anti-malarial:
You can burn a few neem leaves to ward off the insects. This is also effective against different types of mosquitoes. Of all the home remedies for malaria, neem is the best for treating the early symptoms of malaria.
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Wound healing properties:
The neem leaves have antiseptic properties which treat wounds.
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Joint pain treatment:
Oil or extract applied to the affected area can help relieve pain and discomfort. Arthritis is treated with neem plant extract.
How do you prepare neem leaf juice/tea for medicinal purposes?
Below is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare neem leaf juice. Follow the steps to make it easier.
- Pluck neem leaves from the tree. Get an adequate amount depending on the volume of juice or tea.
- Wash leaves very well with clean water. Repeat the washing two to three times to ensure all dirt and particles are gone.
- Place a clay pot on fire with water filled to slightly more than halfway. Then place leaves in it.
- Allow it to boil for about ten to fifteen minutes. Take off the fire and allow it to cool down small.
What is the right dose of neem leaf tea/juice?
There has not been a specific dose or prescription of the local leaf. In the past, our ancestors considered the age of people before giving them neem leaf juice. This practice has been with us even in today’s world. Adults take about 350ml to 450ml day and night for treatment. Children take 100ml to 150ml day and night.
What are some uses of neem trees?
After knowing the health benefits of a neem tree, how to use it comes into mind. It is that simple.
- Neem leaves can be boiled and drunk for the treatment of malaria and other diseases.
- Oil can be made from the neem plant.
- The neem leaves can be ground into a paste for the treatment of skin issues.
- The bark o neem can be peeled and placed in water for domestic animals to heal them when sick.
- Its leaves can be burnt to drive away mosquitoes and other insects.
What are the possible side effects of using a neem tree?
Vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, blood disorders, seizures, loss of consciousness, coma, brain disorders, and death are among the serious side effects.
How do you cultivate neem trees?
Neem is planted using its seeds. The ripe fruits are kept until it dries out. The dried fruits become capable of sowing. First, we should plant them in a container, and later transfer them.
Disclaimer:
This is not a piece of medical advice. Visit the hospital if sick.
