NEEM : Azadirachta indica, Melia Azadirachta - Meliaceae
Part used : Bark, leaves, seeds, flowers and gum
Energetics :
- Rasa (taste) : Bitter
- Virya (action) : Cooling
- Vipaka (post-digestive effect) : Pungent
- Guna (quality) : Light, Dry
Doshas : PK-, V+
Dhatus (tissues) : Plasma, Blood, Fat
Srotas (systems) : Digestive, Circulatory, Respiratory, Urinary
Action :
Alterative, antipyretic, antiseptic/bacterial/malarial, anthelmintic, bitter, antacid, prevents itching, anthelmintic, heals wounds, alleviates fevers, benefits the eyes, relieves hyperacidity, alleviates bleeding from high pitta, analgesic, purify the blood, detoxicant, immunostimulant.
Indications :
SKIN : Most effective in inflammatory skin conditions with itching, oozing and infection; eczema, psoriasis when active with auspitz sign and bleeding, acne, urticaria, ringworm, scabies, lice. The oil is especially effective with fungal and bacterial infections (use externally at 2-5% dilution). Its intense bitterness found in azadarachtin has renowned anti-bacterial and fungicidal activity which can help with eczema and general skin inflammations.
GIT : Used in intestinal inflammation- specific for hyperacidity, ulcers, colitis and Crohn's with high pitta and kapha. Clears mucus and bleeding from the GIT. Useful in fissures, fistulas, haemorrhoids, local congestion in the lower bowel. Clears the intestines of parasites and worms. Very useful in chronic dysbiosis such as with candida albanicans, protozoal infections, bacterial infestation.
METABOLIC : Traditionally used in diabetes mellitus to support the system and regulate blood-sugar levels.
MOUTH : Traditional usage for toothache, gingivitis and general oral hygiene- use an infusion of the leaves as a mouthwash. The Indian toothbrush.
FEVERS : Useful in high fever from pitta of infectious agents- especially in the intermittent fever of malaria-like diseases.
Thrives in well-drained soil all over India up to 1000 metres. It is a tender tree not surviving in temperate climates.
Often confused with Melia azadirachta (this is known as 'Mahanimba' in Ayurveda)- a tree with very similar properties that can survive in hardier climates.
Myths abound aboud the healing properties of Neem; its healing properties are said to have begun when a drop from the cup of immortality, amrita, fell on it......
Used in the famous panchtiktagrita- Ghee of five bitters for inflammation in the muscles and deeper tissues.
Also a very infective insecticide/fungicide in the garden- spray an infusion on the plant for excellent organic results.
It is avery strong herb. As with all very bitter and concentrated flavours it should be used short-term. Use for up to a month maximum.
Neem's traditional use is based on its detoxifying benefits that help maintain healthy circulatory, digestive, respiratory and urinary systems.
It is used for external applications in skin diseases. Neem is bitter and alterative. It is used as a poultice in boils.
One of the most powerful blood purifiers and detoxifiers in Ayurvedic usage, Neem is often used to maintain healthy skin.
Contraindications :
- High vata, wasting, debility.
- Any condition with cold signs.
Dosage :
0.5- 5g per day
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