Neem

Neem is a tree in the mahogany family Meliaceae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent, including India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives. The tree is widely cultivated in tropical and semi-tropical regions, and its leaves, bark, and seeds are used in traditional medicine, pest control, and cosmetics.

Etymology

The word "neem" comes from the Sanskrit word "nimba," which means "bestower of good health." It has also been referred to as "the village pharmacy" because of its medicinal qualities.

Description

Neem trees can reach a height of 15–20 meters. They have wide, spreading branches and are evergreen, but can lose most of their leaves in severe drought. The compound leaves are alternate and pinnate, with 20–31 medium to dark green leaflets about 3–8 cm long. The flowers are arranged in drooping axillary panicles that are up to 25 cm long. The fragrant white flowers are 5–6 mm long and 8–11 mm wide. The fruit is a smooth, olive-like drupe which varies in shape from elongate oval to nearly roundish.

Uses

Neem has been used in Ayurveda for more than two millennia for its medicinal properties. Neem oil, derived from the seeds, has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including fever, gastrointestinal issues, skin diseases, respiratory problems, and inflammation. The bark and leaves are also used in Ayurvedic medicine.

Neem is also used in organic farming. The tree's seeds, leaves, and twigs can be ground into a powder that can be used as a bio-pesticide and soil amendment. Neem oil is also used as a bio-pesticide.

In cosmetics, neem oil is often used in skin and hair products due to its moisturizing and regenerative properties. It is also used in soaps, toothpaste, and mouthwashes.

Cultivation

Neem trees can be grown in tropical and semi-tropical regions. They prefer areas with sub-arid to sub-humid conditions, with an annual rainfall of 400–1,200 millimeters. They can tolerate high to very high temperatures and are relatively drought-resistant.

See also

• List of Indian medicinal plants
• Ayurveda
• Organic farming

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