Nutritionist & Certified Diabetes Educator Madhavi Karmokar Sharma, Founder of Informed Health
Neem has been there for ages, and the first thing that crosses our mind when we hear it is bitter tang! While the wonder herb undeniably tastes bitter, it also comes packed with compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, thus offering health benefits in several forms. Ayurveda hails Neem for the array of health benefits it offers. Each part of the neem tree can be used for a variety of health conditions ranging from skin to oral hygiene and more. According to Ayurveda, neem leaves are an effective acne combatant, can improve hair health, boost immunity, maintain blood sugar levels, and much more.
Read on to know the health benefits provided by this ageless wonder herb:
Promotes digestive wellness
The bitterness present in the neem leaves helps in waking up the taste receptors of your gut, which in turn, leads to the release of cholecystokinin (CKK). Now, this pushes the pancreas and gall bladder to secrete enzymes that are essentially important for breaking down food and improving digestion. So, you can consume neem either by chewing or having it in the form of juice once a day – mainly early morning on empty stomach.
Ensures blood sugar balance
Neem is a powerhouse of flavonoids, triterpenoids, anti-inflammatory elements, and glycosides. All these elements are highly useful in maintaining blood sugar levels in your body by stabilizing the glucose present in the blood. If you are diabetic, start having neem juice or leaves daily after consulting with your doctor. As per studies, its consumption can also delay the onset of diabetes.
Enhances immunity
Neem comes loaded with antimicrobial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties that ensure seamless functioning of the liver. The liver frequently releases various kinds of toxins, and neem helps in detoxifying and eliminating them. Regular consumption of neem leaves can reduce the risk of viral diseases like malaria, dengue, flu, etc. It can also prevent you from dangerous diseases like cancer as well as heart attacks.
Alleviates skin and hair health
With the help of its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, neem can be highly effective in curing skin problems like acne, whiteheads, blackheads, etc. Similarly, it is useful in preventing dandruff, hair fall and also promotes hair growth. For this, you can apply neem paste on the scalp instead of any shampoo.
Given the aforementioned benefits of neem, you must include this ayurvedic herb in your diet in any form, as prescribed by the doctor. So, why delay putting in that extra effort and make your future healthy like never before!