1

HISTORY OF NEEM
CONTENT
 Introduction:
 Nutritional Value of Neem:
 Properties of Neem:
 Potential uses of Neem:
o Potential uses of Neem for Inflammation and Arthritis:
o Potential uses of Neem for Infections:
o Potential uses of Neem for Cancer:
o Potential uses of Neem for Diabetes:
o Potential uses of Neem for Liver:
o Potential uses of Neem for Immunity:
o Potential uses of Neem for Brain:
o Potential uses of Neem for Oral care:
o Potential uses of Neem for Stomach:
o Potential uses of Neem for Heart:
o Potential uses of Neem for Malaria:
o Potential uses of Neem for Vitiligo:
 How to Use Neem?
 Side Effects of Neem:
 Precautions to Take with Neem:
 References:
 2

History of Neem

Neem – the legendary medicinal tree of India has grown with the
human settlement all over the country and has been an integral part of the
Indian way of life for centuries. The history of the Neem tree is inextricably
linked to the history of the Indian civilization.
 The Neem tree has for a very long time been a friend and protector of the
Indian villagers. For ages Indians have trusted this tree to fortify their
health and remedy scores of diseases. In addition, it has been used for
protecting food and stored grains and as a fertilizer and natural pesticide
for the fields. It has been used for a far wider array of uses than any other
tree!
 The Neem tree (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) was probably India’s best
kept secret! Ancient India was envied for its Black Pepper, Cardamom,
Saffron, Turmeric, Sandalwood, Silk etc. and these prized ingredients
were sought after and taken across the seas to Europe for centuries. The
British Raj also failed to grasp the significance of the presence of this tree
in every nook and corner of India (barring the Himalayas and the coastal
regions). Perhaps, if they had known about the wonderful array of uses of
the Neem Tree, it would have become a worldwide phenomenon ages ago!
 3

 For Indians, the Neem tree had many fascinating aspects. For the children
this evergreen, attractive tree was a haven from sun and rain – they spent
hours in its cooling shade, plucked the sweet ripe fruit for a snack and
built tree houses, which they shared with butterflies, birds and bees. This
tree was the chosen one because its shade is known to be cooler than any
other trees, and also, no bugs or insects are to be found under it because
of its repellant action.
 For the women, the neem was the mainstay of the herbal beauty tradition.
It was also a source of medicine to treat more than a 100 health problems,
from scratches and skin rashes to malaria and diabetes. The women also
used it to protect their stored grains and pulses through the year.
 For the men folk the tree provided seeds, leaf and bark which could be
converted into fertilizer and pest control material. It also provided
medicinal potions for their cattle and livestock. Besides, the breeze that
blew through the boughs of the tree kept their homes free of bacteria and
viruses and cool through the summer.
 For centuries Indians planted this tree in the vicinity of their homes and
practiced gentle and daily interaction with this extraordinary plant. For
women in particular, the Neem proved an invaluable source of health,
hygiene and beauty that was freely available. Having a bath with a
decoction of neem leaves kept their skin supple and healthy. Neem leaf
powder or crushed leaves incorporated into their face packs provided
emollient and anti ageing action. The antiseptic properties of neem leaf
extracts helped in controlling pimples and acne.
 In some parts of India, it was a regular practice to apply coryllium (lamp
black) along the side of the eye, particularly by young ladies as a beauty
aid to make eyes conspicuous. The common method employed to make
lamp black was to take an earthen lamp and put neem oil and a cotton
wick in it. When ignited, the wick liberated copious smoke from which
lamp black could be collected, by placing a brass cup containing water
for cooling, some distance away from the flame. The lamp black deposit
was then scraped from underneath the cup and mixed with a small
quantity of mustard oil to form a thick paste called Kaajal.
 4

Neem oil was believed to prevent baldness and graying of hair and was
used as anti-lice and anti-dandruff treatment. A teaspoon of dried neem leaf
powder, mixed with the same quantity of ghee (clarified butter) and honey
was known to help control skin allergies.
 A mixture of equal quantities of neem seed powder, rock salt and alum
mixed well was used for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
 Nimba, the great medicine for the cure of pitta – aggravations and for
blood purification – Priyanighantu Harotakyadivarga
 All these practices have been validated by modern science. We know
today that this extraordinary tree can do all that it can do because of the
sheer range of compounds present in it. A 132 to be precise have been
identified to date. Modern research has uncovered the secret of its
effectiveness. Its powerful antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral and
antiseptic properties make it particularly effective in treating anything
from dandruff to acne, eczema to malaria and cold sores to warts!
Ironically, it is this very versatility that for so long has kept this tree and
it’s amazing properties from taking center stage. The mindset that
consumers have been shaped into dictates that there has to be a specialist
solution to each problem, in order for the solution to be effective. That
one tree can solve so many diverse problems is simply suspect in today’s
market.
 The word NEEM is derived from Sanskrit Nimba which means ‘bestower
of good health’. It has also been known as Ravisambha – sun ray like
effects in providing health. The Neem tree has been venerated through
the ages in the Indian countryside as it provided hope in any situation and
the faith in the miraculous healing powers of this amazing tree led
patients with incurable diseases to adopt neem as way life. They lived in
the shade of the tree, drank infusion of various part (Leaf, bark, etc) as
advised by Ayurvedic tradition. They used young twigs for oral hygiene
first thing in the morning, ate tender leaves as salad or cooked leaves with
vegetable as food. Neem gums was used as lozenges for dryness of throat
and allay thirst. In summer, sweet, ripe fruit were sucked for their
sweetish pulp. All this together, probably strengthened their immune
system to meet any challenge!!!
 5
 Its medicinal properties are documented in the ancient Sanskrit texts –
Puranas and it is estimated that Neem is present, in one form or another,
in 75% of Ayurvedic formulations.
 The ancient Indian found many therapeutic uses for the tree and also
observed that the tree could survive and grow almost anywhere as long as
it was warm and dry. In due course of time, migrating Indians carried it to
distant lands ie: Africa, Fiji, Mauritius, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand,
Cambodia, plantations are reported to be making headway in USA,
Mexico, Australia and China and several countries of Latin America.
 Neem Oil is generally recommended for skin diseases while neem leaves
are used for beauty purposes.
 The Neem leaf extracts have a powerful antiseptic, anti-fungal, antiviral
and anti-bacterial effect. Unlike synthetic chemicals that often produce
side effects such as allergic reactions, rashes etc. Neem is gentle and does
not create any complications.
 Unlike Neem seed oil, Neem leaves have a pleasant odor. An extract
from neem leaves can be prepared as an alcoholic tincture or as tea. The
alcohol extract has a dark green colour and is effective for several weeks.
It can be used in anti ageing nourishing formulas, mouthwashes, face
washes, shower gels, soothing gels, face masks, skin toners etc.
 Introduction:
 Azadirachta indica, commonly known as neem in India, is also called
‘Margosa’ or ‘Indian Lilac’. It is the most versatile, diverse (different
varieties of species) tree in the tropical region (hot regions), that might
have medicinal potential. Neem has a lot of beneficial non-wood products
like flowers, leaves, fruits, bark, gum, oil, seeds, and neem cake (residue
left over after oil is pressed from neem seeds). It is thus considered the
most useful tree in comparison to all other tree species.
In Sanskrit neem is called ‘arista’ which means ‘perfect, complete and
imperishable. ‘Nimba’ is the Sanskrit name of neem and is derived from
the term ‘nimbati swasthyamdadati’ which means ‘to give good health’.
Even the Persians have named neem as ‘Azad- Darakth- E- Hind’ which
implies ‘Free tree of India’. It shows remarkable potential in the fields of
environment protection, pest management, and medicine. Neem might be a
 6
natural source of pesticides, insecticides, and agrochemicals apart from
having potential health uses.
 Nutritional Value of Neem:
 Leaf meals from some tropical legumes have been explored due to the
need to look for alternative sources of food for humans and feed for
livestock. Neem leaf meal was analysed in a study that found that it has
18.10% crude protein and relatively high crude fibre of about 15-56%.
Though the gross energy content was high at 4.16 kcal/g, the
metabolizable energy is low.2
 Non-ruminant animals might also benefit from leaf meal from neem
plants as a source of protein, vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids.2
 Properties of Neem:
 Neem, due to its potential properties, has been used in Ayurvedic
medicine for more than 4000 years. Neem products have several
properties and might have applications in various fields making neem a
green treasure.
 It may have anti-allergenic activity
 It may have anti-dermatic activity and may be helpful for skin diseases
like acne eczema, psoriasis
 It may have anti-inflammatory activity
 It may have antipyretic activity (fever-reducing)
 It may have anti-scabies activity and may be helpful for scabies, an itchy
skin condition
 It may have anti-diabetic activity
 It may have an anti-cancer potential
 It may have diuretic activity and may help the body get rid of extra fluid
(by making more urine)
 It might have an insecticidal activity and may help in destroying or
controlling insects
 It may have larvicidal activity and may help in killing larval pests
 7
 It may have nematocidal activity and may help to kill nematodes (worms
that live in soil)
 It may have anti-microbial activity and may help fight infection3
 Let me tell you a secret! While highlighting the numerous health
advantages of neem components and extracts, neem may lead to few
problems too! I have read an article that says over-consumption of neem
or its extracts might have ill health effects, notably on the liver and
kidneys. From my perspective, the consumption of neem might be done
only after the physician’s consent.
 Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
 Potential uses of Neem:
Potential uses of Neem for Inflammation and Arthritis:
 Studies have shown that a chemical found in neem, called nimbidin,
might possess anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity. Nimbidin
might help inhibit the inflammatory action of macrophages and
neutrophils. Neem might aid in lowering inflammation and might help
reduce associated swelling and pain. It might also be helpful for
rheumatoid arthritis, a disease characterised by inflammation and pain in
the joints and muscles due to auto-immune reactions.3 However, more
research is required. Kindly consult a doctor.
Potential uses of Neem for Infections:
Viral infections: Neem might help with dengue fever by possibly
stopping the growth of the dengue virus. It might interfere with the
replication of the coxsackie B virus, a group of viruses that causes ailments
ranging from stomach upset to full-fledged infections in humans. Neem leaf
has traditionally been used for viral diseases such as chickenpox and
smallpox as well.3 However, more studies are required to prove such claims.
 Bacterial infections and Skin infections: Recent studies have focused on
antibacterial activities of neem in the mouth, specifically in gum disease
and tooth cavities.3
 Neem is also thought to be very effective in managing scabies, but
sufficient scientific data does not exist for human studies.3
 Since neem might have potential antimicrobial properties, it may be
helpful for various skin problems and diseases such as acne, eczema, and
 8
other skin conditions. Neem oil might also help with psoriasis
symptoms.3 However, more research is required to back up such claims.
Fungal infections: Studies have shown that neem might have antifungal
characteristics, which might help with fungal infections like athlete’s foot,
ringworm and candida, commonly called as a yeast infection or thrush-
causing organism. Thrush is a fungal infection that can occur in the mouth,
throat or other parts of the body.3 However, more research is required.
Potential uses of Neem for Cancer:
 Flavonoids and other chemicals found in neem might play a role against
the worsening of cancer. Several studies suggest that high flavonoids
might help stop the growth of cancer.4 Neem and its extracts have a
potential action against a wide range of cancer cells in humans that
include cancers of the skin, breast, lung, oral, stomach, liver, colon, and
prostate.3 However, much more extensive research is required to prove its
potential use. Moreover, cancer is a serious condition and you should
consult a qualified doctor for its diagnosis and treatment.
Potential uses of Neem for Diabetes:
 Studies have recently started to focus on the hypoglycaemic (lowering
blood sugar) effect of neem. The exact mechanism is not clear, however,
the effects are visible.3 Please consult a doctor, as conditions like diabetes
are to be diagnosed and treated by a doctor.
Potential uses of Neem for Liver:
 Neem might have some effect on liver protection, which in turn might aid
the purification of blood. Neem leaf might help reduce liver damage
occurring due to chemicals by stabilising serum marker enzyme levels
and by increasing antioxidant levels, like those present in natural
carotenoids, vitamin E and C. These antioxidants might help to neutralize
free radicals and may inhibit damage.3 However, more research is
required. Kindly consult a doctor.
Potential uses of Neem for Immunity:
 The most important potential use of neem may be due to its immune-
stimulating property. It might help both the cell-mediated and
lymphocytic immune systems, including ”Killer T”cells. These cells
 9
might help to kill viruses, other microbes, etc. by releasing toxic
chemicals into them.3 However, more research is required to be sure.
Potential uses of Neem for Brain:
 The antioxidants present in neem might show brain-protective properties.
In stroke patients, neem might help against brain damage. It might help
the brain by raising the levels of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) and might
help in a process called lipid peroxidation, which might be
helpful.3 However, more research is required to ascertain such claims.
Potential uses of Neem for Oral care:
 In rural India, it is still used to clean teeth. The potential antimicrobial
qualities of neem might aid gingivitis and plaque reduction. Antiseptic
properties might be present in neem twigs which might help with to
maintain oral hygiene.3 However, more studies are required to prove such
potential uses, for any concern related to oral care, please consult a
dentist.
 Also Read: Ashwagandha: Uses, Benefits & Side Effects
Potential uses of Neem for Stomach:
 Studies have shown that neem bark might reduce the secretion of acid in
the stomach by 77% and might regulate stomach secretion volume by
63%. It might reduce stomach enzyme pepsin activity by 50% and may
reduce damage to stomach tissue further owing to its potential anti-
inflammatory properties.3 However, more research is required to back up
such claims. Please ensure to consult a doctor. Do not self-medicate.
Potential uses of Neem for Heart:
 Blood clots, excessive cholesterol levels, high blood pressure and
irregular heartbeat (arrhythmic heart action) are all major causes of heart
attacks. Neem leaf extracts might have the potential to help lower blood
pressure, may reduce clotting and strain on the circulatory system, may
help with irregular heartbeats and might lower levels of bad
cholesterol.3,4 However, more studies are required to prove the potential
uses of neem for the heart. Heart-related problems should be addressed
immediately by a qualified doctor, please do not try to self-medicate
using herbs.
 10
Potential uses of Neem for Malaria:
 Malaria is a common disease of the tropical climate. Neem leaf extract
might be helpful against the malaria virus indirectly as it may have an
effect on parasites that carry the virus. Dried neem leaves are burnt and
used as a mosquito repellent.3 However, more concrete evidence is
required to validate its effectiveness. Malaria should be diagnosed and
treated by a doctor, so kindly consult a doctor.
Potential uses of Neem for Vitiligo:
 Neem might also be helpful for skin problems like vitiligo, an
autoimmune disorder that causes the skin to lose colour and turn white.
However, more research is required to prove the potential use of neem for
vitiligo. Kindly consult a doctor for its proper diagnosis and treatment.3
 Though there are studies that show the benefits of herbs in various
conditions, these are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to
establish the true extent of the benefits of herbs like neem on human
health.
 Neem has a compound, furanolactone, which is well recognised for its
ability to reduce the generation of inflammation and to anaesthetize pain.
From my experience, neem may alleviate pain associated with cancer and
diabetes.
 Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
 Formulations Of Neem
 11
 Neem might be of potential use in several forms like neem oil, cake,
twigs for oral care, leaf extract, extract from flowers and many other
products derived from the neem tree.
 For ages, neem twigs proved beneficial for oral hygiene as a tooth
cleaner, a pain cure, and mouth deodorant. From my perspective, due to
its antibacterial, anti-candidal, anti-cariogenic, anti-gingivitis, and anti-
plaque action, neem may aid in dental problems. In place of sodium
hypochlorite, its antibacterial and antioxidant qualities make it a
potential root canal irrigant used during root canal treatment.
 Dr. Smita barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.
Nimbaka Churna
 Ingredients:
 4-5 twigs of neem leaves
Method:
 Pluck all the leaves.
 Dry them directly under sun to remove moisture.
 Grind them into a fine powder.
 Again, keep the powder under direct sunlight to remove the remaining
moisture.
 Pass it through sieve 100 to remove solid particles.
 Store it in a glass container, in a cool dry place for future use.
Nimbaka Kwath
 Ingredients:
 3-4 sprigs of neem leaves
 Purified water
 Method:
 Pluck the neem leaves from the stem and wash them under running water.
 Pour purified water in a large bottomed vessel.
 Put the leaves in it and boil it for 20 minutes.
 Now switch off the flame, put on a lid and allow the leaves to soak.
 12
 After a few hours, filter the solution in a vessel and remove the leaves.
 Store it in a glass bottle for later use.
Nimbaka Gutika
Ingredients:
 2 cups Nimbaka churna
 2 tbsp gum acacia
Method:
 The purified nimbaka churna is mixed properly with gum acacia which is
the binding agent used here.
 Now take a small teaspoon of the mixture and slowly roll them into a ball
by rubbing it in between both the palms.
 Once the gutikas or tablets are ready, dry them under direct sunlight to
remove any remaining moisture particles.
 Store them in air-tight container in a cool place for future use.
Nimbaka Tailam

 Popularly referred to as “Shea Butter of the East", Nimbaka Tailam or

Neem Oil offers extensive moisturizing and nourishing properties. The
abundance of fatty acids and Vitamin E makes it an ideal choice for
improving skin problems and hair woes instantly. No wonder several
beauty brands are coming out with their very own formula and thanks to
technology, there is no dearth for beauty DIY's that incorporate neem oil as
the base ingredient. It can be prepared by both hot infusion and cold
compression method, but lets check out the homemade way which details
on the hot infusion procedure;
 13

Ingredients:
 2 cups of neem leaves
 1 cup of coconut oil
Method:
 Wash the neem leaves under running water.
 Make a thick paste of it using a grinder.
 Boil coconut oil in a thick-bottomed vessel until it turns transparent.
 Now add the neem paste to the hot oil and stir continuously.
 Allow the mixture to boil with continuous stirring until it turns green.
 Switch off the flame, cover the vessel with a lid and allow it to cool.
 Now strain the oil to remove the plant parts.
 Pour it in a glass container and use it according to your specific needs.
 Side Effects of Neem:
 Every herb may react differently in individuals. More research is required
to state the side effects of neem. However, we must consult the doctor
before using the neem tree or its parts. Kindly do not self-medicate, alter,
replace or discontinue any treatment by yourself.
 Precautions to Take with Neem:
 General precautions must be followed if we wish to consume neem.
Moreover, it must be prescribed by an Ayurvedic doctor who will
understand your conditions and will be able to guide you in the best
possible way about dosage and form.
 Pregnant women must use neem products with caution, and they should
consult their doctor before consuming it in any form.
 Before using neem for children, the elderly and breastfeeding moms,
please consult your Ayurvedic physician.
 14

 References:
 Girish K, Shankara BS. Neem–a green treasure. Elec. Journal of
Bio.2008;4(3):102-11. Available
from:http://vertinnov.fr/fic_bdd/pdf_fr_fichier/13006391360_Neem_-
_A_Green_Treasure.pdf
 Obikaonu HO. Evaluation of the nutritional value of neem (Azadirachta
indica) leaf meal on the performance of finisher broilers. Inter. Journal of
Agri. and Rural Dev. 2012;15(3):1235-9. Available from: (PDF)
EVALUATION OF THE NUTRITINAL VALUE OF NEEM (Azadirachta
indica) LEAF MEAL ON THE PERFORMANCE OF FINISHER
BROILERS (researchgate.net)
 Bhowmik D, Chiranjib YJ, Tripathi KK, Kumar KS. Herbal remedies of
Azadirachta indica and its medicinal application. J Chem Pharm
Res. 2010;2(1):62-72. Available
from: https://mchemist.com/herboglo/pdf/2%20neem.pdf
 Giri RP, Gangawane AK, Giri SG. Neem the wonder herb: a short
review. Int. Journal of Trend in Sci. Research and Dev. (IJTSRD).
2019;3(3):962-6. Available
from: https://d1wqtxts1xzle7.cloudfront.net/59570103/211_Neem_The_W
onder_Herb_A_Short_Review20190607-35467-2cw8zu-with-cover-page-
v2.pdf