Ritika Krit, Founder, Kamree
Neem is a popular medicinal herb in the world of Ayurveda. It is also known as natures’ pharmacy for its healing and immune-boosting properties. The neem tree in its totality is beneficial, with each part serving in medicinal procedures. From flowers, fruit, root seed or bark, and leaves, all of these elements treat various ailments. The plant is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
Neemba in Sanskrit and Azadirachta Indica in English, neem has been proven to be one of the most effective ancient ayurvedic herbs. Neem has more than 130 biological compounds and is an effective antiviral, antibacterial, and powerful immunostimulant. Neem helps in purifying blood and removing free radicals from the body as well as toxins.
Neem is not only used in ayurvedic medicines but quite often used in home remedies to treat various ailments. Following are a few ways you can treat common problems at home.
- Immunity Booster – Crush some neem leaves and infuse them in a glass of water to boost immunity.
- Ear Boils – Mix some honey with crushed neem leaves and apply a few drops to treat the ear ailment.
- Eye Irritation – Cool down boiled neem leaves to water and use it to wash eyes 1-2 times during the day. The home remedy will treat irritation, redness, and puffiness in the eye.
- Pimple removal – Make a smooth paste of ground neem leaves and apply it on the affected area until the zit dries out. One can also use the same paste to clear dark spots and chronic ulcers.
- Skin issues – To treat dry, itchy, or skin ridden with eczema and ringworms, mix turmeric with neem and apply the paste twice daily.
- Dandruff at bay – Treat dry and flaky scalp by boiling a handful of neem leaves with water and let it cool down. After cleansing the scalp with shampoo, rinse your scalp and neem water.
Risk factor
Although neem is generally a certified safe herb, it is possible that some people might be allergic to it due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Do a patch test by following the procedure mentioned below to check whether you’re at risk while using neem in any way.
- Apply a few drops of neem oil in your inner forearm.
- Wait 24 hours and see whether your skin has reacted to it badly. The symptoms might include – discoloration, itching, swelling, burning, or any other discomfort.
It is ideal to consult a doctor in case of using the neem for a child or during pregnancy.
