Azadirachta indica, commonly referred to as neem, is a large evergreen tree native to India. Almost every part of the neem tree is used in folk medicine, with the bark, leaf, seed, seed oil, root, flower and fruit all containing medicinal properties. The effects of neem vary depending on what part of the tree is being used. As with any herbal product, you should talk to your health care practitioner before taking neem.
Shared Effects
More then 135 compounds have been isolated from the neem tree. Neem contains protein, polysaccharides and numerous phytochemicals, including tannins, flavonoids and coumarin. Phytochemicals are antioxidant compounds found in plants that prevent free radical--induced damage to your cells and DNA and thereby help prevent and treat disease in humans. Preliminary research suggests that all parts of the neem tree have anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, antibacterial, antifungal, fever reducing, blood sugar--lowering, astringent and diuretic properties. According to "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database," all parts of neem have been used traditionally to treat diabetes, intestinal worms and malaria.
Neem Seed Oil Effects
Neem seed oil is derived from neem kernels, and it may help stimulate the immune system. It contains a compound called gedunin, which has antimicrobial properties, meaning it may help prevent and treat infections caused by harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. It is therefore used in folk medicine to help treat colds, flu and head lice. In addition, neem oil can be applied topically as an insect repellant; however, drugs.com states that eucalyptus and deet are more effective than neem oil as insect repellants. Neem oil is also used topically to enhance wound healing and treat skin diseases and skin ulcers. These uses are based primarily on traditional use and not scientific evidence, however.
Neem Bark Effects
The bark of the neem tree demonstrates antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects. Neem bark extract is used in folk medicine to help treat staph and other bacterial infections, ulcers, skin diseases, pain and fever. Preliminary research suggests that taking 30 to 60 mg of neem bark extract twice daily may also help heal peptic ulcers, states "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database." However, more research needs to be done to confirm the efficacy of neem bark for these purposes.
Neem Leaf Effects
Neem leaves are also used medicinally and sold in the form of neem leaf extracts. Neem leaf contains sulfur, and it may help protect the liver from damage caused by toxic substances such as alcohol and pain-relieving drugs. Neem leaves are used in folk medicine to treat leprosy, eye disorders, abdominal upset, anorexia, skin ulcers, cardiovascular disease and liver dysfunction. It is also used as a contraceptive and abortive agent and applied topically to the gums and teeth to reduce dental plaque. Similar to neem seed oil and neem bark, there is currently insufficient scientific evidence to conclude how effective neem is for these purposes.
Neem Flower and Fruit Effects
According to anecdotal reports, neem flowers are used in folk medicine for the suppression of bile and phlegm, and the fruit is used to help treat hemorrhoids, urinary disorders, eye disorders, wounds, ulcers and leprosy, though it should be noted that no studies have been conducted yet to confirm these claims. Neem can interact with certain medications and cause adverse effects such as anemia and vomiting, and it is contraindicated in small children.
References
- "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database"; Therapeutic Research Faculty; 2011
- Drugs.com: Neem
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