Neem is the cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine, the holistic medical practice developed in India thousands of years ago. Also known by its Latin name, L. Azadirachta indica, neem's leaves, bark, seeds, roots and oils have been used to treat skin diseases and fungal infections. It has also been used to relieve symptoms of chronic viral conditions like herpes and hepatitis, according to Organic India.
Improved Oral Hygiene
Neem is a particularly powerful germ killer, eliminating bacteria, viruses, fungi and other toxins. "The Journal of Ethnopharmacology" published results of a study in 2004 testing neem's efficacy on the buildup of dental plaques. The six-week trial incorporated into a gel toothpaste a 25 percent concentration of neem. The results showed that neem "significantly reduced" plaque and levels of streptococcus and lactobacilli bacteria in the mouth.
In 1992, the National Academy of Sciences published a report on neem's uses. "Neem: A Tree for Solving Global Problems" described how people in India and throughout the African continent used neem twigs as crude toothbrushes. The book concluded that the twig could prevent gum disease because it massages gums, prevents plaque accumulation and provides an antiseptic benefit.
Improves Stomach Health
Neem leaves and their extract have proven useful in protecting the stomach against illnesses and infections, including ulcers. India's Banaras Hindu University conducted a study that measured neem leaf extract on the stomach lining of laboratory rats. Neem was shown to reduce the secretion of stomach acid, thus preserving the delicate lining of the stomach. The acid destroys the organ's mucous, allowing the acid to burn the walls of the stomach and create infection. This study was backed by a 2009 study conducted at the Indian Institute of Chemical Biology. Scientists reported that neem bark extract was more effective for ulcer protection than prescription medications, including H(2)-receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors.
Treats Skin Disorders
As an antiseptic, neem can prevent and treat skin infections. However, it is particularly effective against disorders that result from inflammation, including psoriasis, eczema and scabies. Results from a trial published in the "Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology" tested neem as a supplement to the traditional coal tar treatment for psoriasis. Those in the neem/coal tar group showed "a quicker and better response" when compared to those in the coal tar only group, leading to the conclusion that neem regulated hormonal control and enzyme inhibition related to psoriasis breakouts. The scientists also stated that the neem and coal tar pairing produced an "excellent response and the onset of the action was quicker."
The foremost study on neem and scabies was published in a 1992 edition of "Tropical and Geographic Medicine." Neem was mixed with the herb turmeric and dispensed as a treatment to 814 people in the study. The paste cleared up 97 percent of the infections within 3-15 days. This study has been supported by a 2006 article in the journal "Lancet," which examined the connections between scabies and poverty.
References
- Organic India: Neem
- "Neem: A Tree for Solving Global Problems." National Research Council, 1992.
- Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology: Effect of aqueous extract of neem...
- Phytotherapy Research: The use of neem for controlling gastric hyperacidity and ulcer.
- Indian Journal of Dermatology: Aqueous extract of neem leaves in treatment of Psoriasis vulgaris
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