Indian mythology, tradition, cuisine, culture and practices are full of astounding properties and have a great connotation in health and good living. Although they were sidelined and suppressed by the invasion of western influence and modern medicine… Indian beliefs, practices and treatments are now seeing a revival of sorts.

As the world takes notice of the immense power of YOGA, Ayurveda, Naturopathy, back in our own country people who had put all their trust and money in drugs and clinical treatments are now looking at alternative ways of healing and wellness.

There is a clear shift from just treatment of illnesses to a more holistic and preventive aspect of health. People are keen to adopt healthy lifestyles and switch to changes that are natural and devoid of chemical components.

Researchers and institutions are scientifically decoding the health and other benefits of Indian herbs, spices and medicinal plants. From turmeric, cinnamon, garlic, almonds to the neem – there is an increased interest in their properties and healing power. The NEEM tree is still being extensively studied, but the research withstanding there are established benefits and uses of almost every part of the neem tree.

The word Neem derives its name from the Sanskrit word Nimba. The Neem tree was mainly cultivated in the Indian subcontinent and from here it has spread and is now grown all over the world. In Indian medical scriptures and traditional system, the versatile medicinal value of the Neem plant has been highly regarded because of its varied usages and benefits.

The usages of Neem tree are varied from cosmetic to medicinal value. It has been found beneficial not only for humans but for animals and plants too. Besides its usage in shampoo, soap and facewash, neem has found its usage in Fodder for cattle and as manure. Each and every part of the neem including its leaves, barks, seeds, fruits and flower have been utilized since ancient times. Medical fraternity is slowly accepting its benefits and discovering new usages as insect repellant and treatment for skin disorders.

The most common usage of neem is in the beauty industry where neem oil is used as basic ingredients. The anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of Neem are perhaps the main reason for usage of neem in various kinds of skin ailments like Pimple, acne, boils and ulcers. Neem water as a skin toner can help in clearing acne, scars, pigmentation and blackheads. Neem paste applied on the face can Lightens skin blemishes. Neem has moisturising properties and can treat dry skin.

Malaria is a big problem in tropical regions, and that is where neem grows best. Neem's natural mosquito repellent properties can help fight against malaria. Neem oil can be used to repel mosquitoes naturally as mosquito repellant on the skin or by burning it in a lamp.

Neem is used in traditional medicine to treat malaria, diabetes, worms, cardiovascular and skin diseases. It reportedly has contraceptive, antiulcer, and fungicidal properties, as well as applications relevant to cancer.

Anti-cancer benefits of neem-Consuming neem every day may keep the number of cancerous cells within a certain limit and prevents them from getting organized. Malignancy of cancer tissue is decreased from the intake of active components of neem.

Anti-bacterial benefits of neem- Using neem both internally and externally can destroy infectious bacteria in the gut and keep your colon clean. Neem is also a potent drug in other infections such as flu and fever. Neem paste can act as a good antibacterial cleanser for minor skin infections and cuts and wounds.

Anti- Diabetic benefits of neem- Neem leaves lower your blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin receptor sensitivity. These leaves also help in providing better blood sugar control and lowering the dependence on anti-diabetic drugs.

Prevents oral problems-Neem twigs can be used to brush teeth instead of toothpaste and brushes. The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of neem play a key role in prevention of gum disease, toothache, bad breath and mouth ulcers. Regular brushing with neem can also make teeth whiter.

Most of the medicinal research on neem has been done in India, and neem is a staple in Ayurvedic medicine and in many traditional home remedies. The western world is just beginning to learn of the benefits that this tree offers. But closer home in our country, community should take the initiatve to grow more neem. Healers should use and teach the various uses of Neem to the general public.