Neem is a fast-growing, evergreen tree native to the Indian subcontinent. Revered in Ayurveda as “Sarva Roga Nivarini” (the healer of all ailments), its leaves, bark, seeds, and oil are used for a wide range of health benefits, especially in skin and blood disorders.
Neem Scientific Names
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Phylum: Angiosperms
- Class: Eudicots
- Order: Sapindales
- Family: Meliaceae
- Genus: Azadirachta
- Species: A. indica
Neem Common Names
- English: Neem Tree, Indian Lilac
- Hindi: Neem
- Sanskrit: Nimba
- Gujarati: Limbdo
- Marathi: Kadunimb
- Tamil: Vembu
- Telugu: Vepa
Neem Uses
- Skin Disorders – Used in treating eczema, acne, psoriasis, and fungal infections due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Blood Purification – Traditionally consumed as a blood purifier, aiding detoxification and improving skin health.
- Antiparasitic and Antifungal – Acts against intestinal worms, head lice, and skin fungus.
- Oral and Dental Health – Neem twigs used as natural toothbrushes (datun); effective in maintaining oral hygiene and preventing gum disease.
- Immune Modulation and Fever Relief – Known for boosting immunity and managing fever and inflammatory conditions.
- Blood Sugar Control – Neem supports healthy blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin sensitivity and regulating glucose metabolism.
- Piles Relief – Neem’s anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties help reduce swelling, pain, and discomfort associated with piles.
- Tannins (Chebulagic acid, Chebulinic acid) – Astringent and antioxidant
- Gallic acid – Antimicrobial and hepatoprotective
- Ellagic acid – Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
- Flavonoids and Saponins – Rejuvenative and adaptogenic properties
- Anthraquinones – Mild laxative effects
Phytochemical Constituents
Harde contains several bioactive compounds:
References
Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India, Part-I, Volume IV, Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India.
Sharma, P. V. (2003). Dravyaguna Vigyan, Vol. 2. Chaukhambha Bharati Academy.
Kirtikar, K. R., & Basu, B. D. (2008). Indian Medicinal Plants, Volume III. International Book Distributors.
Singh, R., et al. (2011). “Antibacterial activity of Terminalia chebula Retz. extract against dental caries microorganisms.” Journal of Dental Research and Review, 3(2), 90–93.
Saleem, A., et al. (2002). “Antioxidant potential of Terminalia chebula fruit extracts in comparison with ascorbic acid.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 79(3), 327–329.
Nadkarni, K. M. (2009). Indian Materia Medica, Vol. I. Bombay Popular Prakashan.