Neem Azadirachta Indica

Neem has been used as a traditional cure in Ayurvedic medicine traditions in India since ancient times and is one of the oldest medicines in use today. Neem is valued for its leaves and nuts, even the twigs and bark are made use of in Indian villages. Neem oil is cold pressed from the whole nut and is exceptionally rich. The downside is the heavy, slightly unpleasant odor, however it is so effective that you can learn to live with it. Neem has antibacterial and antifungal activity and moisturizing and regenerative properties, contains Vitamin E, and has essential fatty acids. The antibacterial action can be explained by the plant's component azadirachtin, which is known to destroy the bacterial cell wall and thus inhibit the growth of bacteria.¹ These medicinal properties make it ideal to treat a variety of skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, scabies, and athletes foot.

Recent studies have shown neem to be an effective in reducing plaque-induced gingivitis and reversing periodontal disease when used as a mouth rinse. ¹ Neem leaf powder can be used as an effective tooth powder when mixed with astringent herb powders and/or baking soda. Neem oil makes an effective scalp massage to eliminate dandruff and is used often as an ingredient in medicated soaps and organic hair care products and shampoos. ²

In the garden, neem stands out as a highly effective, but non-toxic insecticide and insect repellent . Neem contains more than 25 active compounds thatinsect_repellent combat insects. Neem also works as a systemic which is absorbed into the plant to be ingested by feeding insects. Many beneficial insects are unharmed by neem because they do not feed from the plant.