Overview
Neem is an Ayurvedic, Unani and Chinese medicinal plant that have been used for thousands of years for healing.
It is originally from India but now also growing abundantly in South America and considered a safe medicinal plant and modulates
biological processes without adverse effects.
Traditionally, it is mainly used as a general antiseptic and antibacterial against skin diseases, septic sores and
infected wounds. It contains high levels of antioxidants to protect the skin from aging. Other applications are: in the
treatment of malaria, improving oral and gastric health.
Neem leaf has a wide range of pharmacological activities.
Constituents
Extract include azadirachtin, isomeldenin, nimbin, nimbinin, 6-desacetyllnimbinene, nimbolide,
nimbidic acid, nimbandiol, immobile, nimocinol, sodium nimbidate, quercetin, campesterol, stigmasterol and
beta-sitosterol.
The most active compounds are azadirachtin A-G; azadirachtin E is more effective.
Pharmacology
Neem is a rich source of antioxidants; the constituents play a role in the scavenging of
free radical generation and prevention of disease pathogenesis.
The constituents (phyto-chemicals) have a number of pharmacological effects such as immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory,
antihyperglycaemic, antiviral, antibacterial, analgesic, contraceptive, antimutagenic, anticarcinogenic, antiulcer,
antimalarial and hepatoprotective.
Neem has a vast array of biologically active compounds that are chemically diverse and structurally complex; so far more than 140
compounds have been isolated from different parts.
The leaves yield quercetin (a polyphenolic flavonoid), nimbosterol (β- sitosterol) as well liminoids.
Quercetin has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Fresh matured leaves yield an odorous essential oil, which exhibits antifungal activity.
The leaves are also used for conjunctivitis, piles and fistula; promotes a healthy circulative, respiratory and
digestive system.
It also may have beneficial effects on decreased liver function, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis,
rheumatism, STDs, nerve disorders, mononucleosis, allergies and tuberculosis.
Dosage
Tincture: 1-3 full droppers daily.
Precaution
Do not use when becoming pregnant or breastfeeding.
Reference
Medicinal properties of neem leaves: a review.
Subapriya R, Nagini S.
Therapeutics Role of Azadirachta indica (Neem) and Their Active Constituents in Diseases Prevention and Treatment.
Mohammad A. Alzohairy
The above presentation is for informational and educational purposes only.
It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage.
For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescribed (RX) or over - the - counter medication (OTC) is also available.
Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using dietary
supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.
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