Neem has long been used in many countries, particularly India, to treat a wide range of health problems. Nearly every part of the tree is used medicinally, from which about 700 therapeutic preparations have been listed. In addition, twigs from the neem tree are used as toothbrushes, and neem is applied topically as an insect repellent. Despite its broad usage, there is not enough scientific information to confirm the efficacy of neem for any health condition. Do not to use neem without supervision from a health-care professional.
Identification and Dosing
Other common names for neem include arishtha, bead tree, holy tree, margosa, persian lilac, nim and nimba. The bark, leaves and seeds are more commonly used medicinally, but the root, flower and fruit are also used. There is no scientifically proven safe and effective dosage regimen for neem. According to Wellness.com, bark extract has been used orally in doses of 30 to 60 mg twice a day for 10 weeks to treat ulcers.
Benefits
Neem leaf is used to treat stomach distress, liver ailments, intestinal worms, appetite loss, fever, gum disease, skin ulcers and leprosy. It is also used for eye problems, nose bleeds, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Neem bark is used for treating conditions such as malaria, ulcers, skin disorders and pain. Neem flower is used for decreasing bile and loosening phlegm. Twigs are used for cough, asthma, hemorrhoids, low sperm count and urinary problems. Some use neem seeds for birth control.
Effectiveness
There is not enough information from human studies to rate the effectiveness of neem for any health condition. According to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, or NMCD, preliminary information suggests some benefit of neem for treating gum disease and for healing ulcers. However, additional research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of neem for any health problem.
Considerations
According to the NMCD, neem is generally safe when taken orally for short periods of time. Neem can injure the liver and kidneys if taken at high doses or for a long time. It should be avoided within two weeks of surgery, and in the presence of diabetes, organ transplant, infertility and diseases of the immune system, such as lupus. Neem should also be avoided in children and during pregnancy or lactation.
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