The Neem tree (Arzadirachta indica) is a medium to large sized tree characterised by its straight trunk, furrowed dark brown to Grey bark a dense rounded crowns of pinnate leaves. Although a native of the Indian subcontinent it grows extremely well in the tropical and sub-tropical areas of Australia.

The bark of the Neem tree yields tannin and gum. The amber hued gum is used an s a dye in textiles and in the mixing of traditional medicines.

The Benefits of the Neem Tree to Humans

Human beings have sort to fortify their health and cure various ills with herbal remedies for many years. While herbs, like ginseng and Echinacea are better known, research has proven that Neem has a wider array of uses than any other herb. Neem has been used extensively in health and beauty aids for many centuries. The first recorded indication of its use was 4500 years ago. This was even before ancient herbalists discovered the benefits of the willow tree, thyme, myrrh and pine.

The earliest Sanskrit medical writings refer to the benefits of Neems fruits, seeds, oil leaves, roots and bark. It is therefore no wonder that India’s Neem tree is affectionately called the “village pharmacy” because it’s fruits, seeds, leaves, bark and roots contain compounds that demonstrate anti fungal, anti inflammatory, anti viral, anti bacterial and anti septic properties.

For western medicine, the introduction of Neem came about when German researches discovered the efficiency of the many compounds in Neem and started utilising them as the chief ingredients in many products. This was the start of a worldwide interest in exploring the benefits of such an ancient herb.

With wider application, extracts of the Neem tree are used in creams to combat infections, in toothpaste with antiseptic properties, thus resulting in reducing cavities and healing gum diseases. Neem in soaps with antibacterial properties which leave the skin cool and refreshed, in shampoos to kill lice, control dandruff and itchy scalp while keeping the scalp looking healthy, shiny and easy to manage. When mixed with equal parts of water and vegetable oil, Neem oil also makes a healing soak for athlete's foot.

However, perhaps Neem’s most touted advantage is the effect it has upon the skin. Acne, psoriasis, eczema and ringworm are skin conditions that are effectively treated by Neem preparations. According to John Conrick, author of Neem – The Ultimate Herb, Neem is as effective as cortisone for psoriasis. The usual treatment for Psoriasis involves either Coal tar or cortisone. Coal tar products are messy and smelly and cortisone can thin the skin after repeated use – Neem has neither drawback.

For those of us concerned about the effect of aging on the skin, creams and lotions containing Neem oil can be used to prevent wrinkles by providing a natural moisturiser to the skin. To supplement the beneficial effects of Neem oil, a face pack made from Neem bark can be applied which will help reduce wrinkles and make the skin feel smoother and appear younger.

Obviously, the NEEM tree is not your average tree and bears out the translation of its Sanskrit name 'sarva roga nivarini'- the curer of all ailments. Little wonder some people refer to the Neem tree as ‘God’s gift to mankind’ or as the environmentalists refer to as a ‘truly guilt free product’.

Two decades of research have revealed promising results in so many disciplines that this obscure species may be of enormous benefit to mankind and deserve to be called a wonder plant.

The balancing of the relationship between nature and science has provided many contributions to the world of medicinal cures, but one of the most ancient, natural and versatile contributors to mankind is NEEM.

The Benefits of the Neem Tree to animals

The Neem tree has been known to aid in the control of many insect related skin problems. Neem has demonstrated its repellency in trials against many insects, including ticks and lice, mosquitoes and sand flies. Neem kills insects by many different methods, the best known of which is its antifeeding action. Once dosed, insects would rather starve to death than feed. Due to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, it helps to alleviate fungus and skin irritation. Salannin, which is a compound found in Neem oil, leaves and seeds, is a safer and more effective insect repellent than the widely used chemical ingredient called DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toulamide) Thus for those of us concerned about the potentially dangerous synthetic repellents, NEEM offers an attractive and safer alternative. Neem is a natural vegetable oil while DEET is Synthetic. Neem is a healing herb that is famous for its wound healing properties, whereas DEET products contain warnings against being applied to open sores or damaged skin.

The safety of NEEM

Neem is safe for humans, animals, birds and fish yet deadly to most insects. The only exceptions to insects are spiders, butterflies, bee, ladybirds' etc, i.e. non-leaf eating insects. The recommendations described in the list below are suitable for common complaints.

Toe/Nails

Apply pure Neem oil with Neem leaf powder; repeat as and when necessary.

Fleas/Lice And Ticks

Brush the coat with Neem leaf powder. Spray Neem wash and brush again. Repeat daily or use Neem shampoo ad Neem growing cream for protection and for shining the coat.

Heels

Wash thoroughly with Neem shampoo. Prepare a balm with Neem leaf powder and one tablespoon of Neem oil. Apply to the heel and cover with gauze, fastening with a bandage.

Horsefly

Moisten the areas where the flies are biting and laying their eggs with Neem lotion. Treat several times a day but avoid applying too close to the animal's eyes.

Warts

Paint the warts with pure Neem oil. Repeat daily. Every wart can be covered with a small lump of Neem leaf powder paste made with clay. The clay Neem paste will drop off when dry.

 Ringworm

Wash with Neem shampoo and rub Neem lotion or Neem oil on to the affected area. The fungus that causes ringworm is effectively controlled with Neem.

Eczema

For wet or oozing eczema use Neem leaf powder. Paint the Neem oil on the affected area and then sprinkle Neem powder.

Disclaimer: This information is only intended for educational purposes and by no means should be taken as medicinal treatment.