Neem is a widely used medicinal herb that grows on the neem or margosa tree, found in India. Millions have used neem since the herb's healing properties were discovered thousands of years ago, says the National Academies Press. Today, neem is recognized as an antiseptic and has been used to treat septic sores, skin diseases and infected burns. In addition, neem is used in food, as a pesticide and as a heating source.
Antibacterial
According to the National Academies Press, neem oil tends to suppress various species of bacteria. Suppressed bacteria types include Staphylococcus aureus -- bacteria causing food poisoning, cystitis, meningitis and pus-forming disorders -- and Salmonella typhosa, bacteria causing typhoid, blood infections and intestinal ailments.
Skin Disorders
Many skin disorders are effectively treated with neem oil. According to a 2009 paper written by Pamela Paterson for the University of Maryland's Masters of Chemical and Life Sciences program, neem treated scabies in 97 percent of people who participated in a trial. In another trial, a single application of neem-infused shampoo quickly treated those who had various stages of lice infestation.
Arthritis
Neem oil has long been used as a treatment for arthritis and other ailments that affect the joints, says the Neem Foundation. The foundation claims that scientific studies provide evidence that Neem oil reduces joint pain. It's considered a natural alternative to over-the-counter remedies such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
Pain Reliever
Neem consists of components that relieve pain and inflammation and reduce fevers. The naturally occurring oil is commonly used for these purposes in areas where it's grown due to its low cost. Regulated trials demonstrate neem's ability to serve as a pain/fever/inflammation reliever and, according to the National Academies Press, some of its anti-inflammatory compounds are even patented.
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