Neem

🌿 (Azadirachta indica) or Nimba

Also known as “The Village Pharmacy”

📖 Overview

Neem is one of the most powerful and versatile herbs in Ayurveda, known for its detoxifying, antimicrobial, and cooling properties. Revered as “Sarva Roga Nivarini”—the curer of all diseases—Neem is traditionally used to purify the blood, support healthy skin, and balance excess Pitta and Kapha.

📜 Traditional Use in Ayurveda

Neem is described as Krimighna (antiparasitic), Kandughna (anti-itch), and Raktashodhaka (blood purifier). It is traditionally used to address skin conditions, inflammatory imbalances, oral hygiene, and feverish states.

Charaka Samhita (Sutra Sthana 27.104):
“Nimba pittakaphajit krimighnah raktapittapaham”
“Neem pacifies Pitta and Kapha, destroys parasites, and alleviates blood and heat disorders.”

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu (Haritakyadi Varga, Verse 53):
“Nimba tikta kashaya rasa sheeta virya raktaprasadana”
“Neem is bitter, astringent, cooling, and purifies the blood.”

It is used in internal formulas and externally in pastes, oils, and soaps for skin purification and wound healing.

🍵 Suggested Use

Neem is available in a wide variety of forms:

Powder (Churna): 1–2 grams daily with warm water
Capsules/Tablets: Standardized for bitter compounds (azadirachtin)
Oil: Used externally for skin, hair, and oral care
Pastes or decoctions: For skin eruptions, wounds, or scalp issues

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Modern research highlights Neem’s antimicrobial and detoxifying actions:

Antibacterial & Antifungal: Inhibits a wide range of bacteria and fungi, supporting skin and oral health [1]
Blood Sugar & Liver Support: May help modulate glucose levels and protect liver function [2]
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Shown to reduce inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress [3]

References:

Biswas, K., et al. (2002). Biological activities and medicinal properties of neem (Azadirachta indica). Curr Sci, 82(11), 1336–1345.
Chattopadhyay, R. R. (1999). Possible mechanism of antihyperglycemic effect of Azadirachta indica leaf extract.Indian J Pharmacol, 31(2), 138–139.
Subapriya, R., & Nagini, S. (2005). Medicinal properties of neem leaves: A review. Curr Med Chem Anticancer Agents, 5(2), 149–156.

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

Neem is very cold and bitter—use with caution in cases of extreme Vata or depletion
Not recommended during pregnancy
May reduce fertility in high doses; traditionally used as a contraceptive
Avoid prolonged internal use without practitioner supervision

🛍️ Shop by Interest

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"Products Featuring Neem"

"These products feature Neem, traditionally used to support general wellness. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."