Neem leaf
The Neem tree, a large evergreen in the mahogany family, is native to the Indian region. The leaves, bark, stem and berries of this tree have analgesic and antimicrobial properties. Neem oil is an ingredient in hundreds of Ayurvedic medical preparations and is also used as insecticide.
Features
Neem oil, extracted from neem fruit is yellow, has a bitter taste and smells like garlic. The oil is composed of glycerides and includes several bitter principles, including azadirachtin, the active ingredient in neem-based insecticides. Neem leaves also contain beta carotene and ascorbic acid.
Uses
Neem has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties and is used to treat skin conditions. In India Neem twigs are used as toothbrushes and you can purchase neem toothpaste at most Indian markets in the west. Other chemicals in neem are effective disease fighters. For example, Gedunin and Irodin A, found in neem, are treatments for malaria. Scientists believe that quercetin is the active chemical in neem treatments for arthritis.
Potential
Ongoing research indicates that neem may be an effective antiretroviral treatment for HIV/AIDS. According to a study published in Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene in 2004, neem extract appeared to protect lymphocytes from HIV invasion. HealthNews reports that "neem's immune modulating polysaccharide compounds" may be key to increasing antibodies to fight the AIDS virus.
Warning
Neem is safe for adult users at normal doses. Information about the safety of neem during lactation is not available so pregnant women should avoid it. Incidents of infant poisoning from neem oil have been reported so it also should not be used with young children.
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