Neem oil comes from the seeds of the Neem Tree. The botanical name for Neem is Azadirachta indica, which translates to “The Free Tree of India”. For many centuries Neem has been used for its antibacterial, antifungal & healing properties. Although, it is fairly new to the western world, it is the most heavily researched remedy in India and is known as the “village pharmacy”. In fact 75% of Ayurvedic remedies contain Neem in one form or another. Neem is known to have anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Personally I use it in my garden to keep pests off my plants, as a shampoo for my pets, as a pest repellent for those evenings we are sitting outside, as a lip balm and in a lotion. Every part of this amazing evergreen tree is beneficial.
The Seed
The most widely used part of the Neem tree is the oil pressed from the seed. Neem oil is used in natural insect repellent for people and pets, pesticide for home and garden, shampoos, lotions, creams, soaps, cleaning products and more. There are thousand of home remedies using pure neem oil but if you prefer, it can be purchased in ready made products as well.
The Leaf
The leaves are more readily available and are as valuable as the seed. Neem leaves contain the same active ingredients as the seed but in a much lower concentration. Because the tree is an evergreen the leaves are available year round. There are mouthwashes, toothpastes, skin care & hair products created using neem leaf. In fact, Dr. Oz did a segment recently totting the benefits of Neem shampoos. Many herbalists recommend chewing the leaves to clean the blood, to support the gastrointestinal system and to boost the immune system. Of course, if you aren’t into chewing leaves you may want to try taking it in a capsule or tea. If you are new to Neem it is best to talk to a qualified herbalist before taking internally and do not take for an extended period of time.
The Bark
Although the bark is not as easily obtained as the leaves and is a bit more difficult to use, it too is useful, especially in the dental field. The bark contains a much higher concentration of antiseptic and anti-inflammatory ingredients than the leaves. For centuries in India people would chew on young branches then use them as a toothbrush.
The Cake
No you can’t bake a cake with Neem. The Neem cake is actually the left over pulp once the oil has been extracted. It is edible by animals and is mainly used as a soil amendment and fertilizer.
The Flower
The intense honey like fragrance of the neem flower is heavenly. Bees are attracted to Neem flowers creating a popular honey. It is also used in aromatherapy for its calming and restorative properties.
To learn more about home remedies and neem uses visit: Discover Neem
To purchase Theraneem products visit: Organix South
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