The Neem Tree (Azadirachta indica)
The neem tree (Azadirachta indica) is in the mahogany family and is native to India, Burma, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Pakistan, growing in tropical and semi-tropical regions. In East Africa it is also known as Muarubaini (Swahili), which means the tree of the 40, as it is said to treat 40 different diseases.
The neem tree is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that can reach a height of about 50–65 feet (15–20 m).The (white and fragrant) flowers are 5–6 mm long and 8–11 mm wide.
In India, the tree is variously known as "Sacred Tree," "Heal All," "Nature's Drugstore," "Village Pharmacy" and "Panacea for all diseases."
Products Made from the Neem Tree
In India, for over 2000 years neem (Azadirachta indica) products have been used for their medicinal properties for: anthelmintic, antifungal, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antiviral, contraceptive and sedative purposes. Neem oil products are also used in selectively controlling pests in plants. It is considered a major component in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine and is particularly prescribed for skin disease. All parts of the tree are said to have medicinal properties (seeds, leaves, flowers and bark) and are used for preparing many different medical preparations.
Neem Leaves Powder and Neem Oil
Neem (Azadirachta indica) has been traditionally used for preparing hair and cosmetics and is useful for skin care such as acne treatment, and keeping skin elasticity. Neem oil has been found to be an effective mosquito repellent. Neem oil has been used for centuries to eliminate dandruff and head lice. Traditionally, a tea is made from neem leaves and is used as a rinse to prevent hair loss. Neem oil and powder treatments soothe irritations, prevent dryness and flaking and nourish the scalp, improving its general immunity and health.
For itchy, dry scalp treatment:
Massage paste made from Neem Leaf Powder mixed with coconut or olive oil into hair and leave for 1 hour. Then shampoo, using Lustrous Henna® Shampoo Powderor Imbue ™Natural Shampoo. Repeat once weekly for 3 weeks or as long as necessary.For oily scalp treatment:
Massage paste made from Neem Leaf Powder mixed with Multani Mitti Clay Powder (Fuller’s Earth) and water into hair and leave for 1 hour. Then shampoo, using Lustrous Henna® Shampoo Powderor Imbue ™Natural Shampoo. Repeat once weekly for 3 weeks or as long as necessary.Want to Purchase Neem Powder?
Contact Saba Botanical of USA to purchase. Resources: Rajeev Seenappa, (2009) Dinkal Agro Inc: Organic for Healthy Living Puri, H.S. (1999) Neem: The Divine Tree. Azadirachta indica. Harwood Academic Publications, Amsterdam The Neem Foundation
©2010-2015. L.J. O'Neal. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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*Even though our herbal ingredients have been used in natural medicine for centuries, we must add the following disclaimer: The herbs, formulas, and recipes contained within this web site are not to be considered substitutes for proper medical and health care. As with any other medicine, if you are sick, you should consult a physician to find out if the herbal preparations listed here are right for you. Saba Botanical does not make any medical claims nor warranties regarding the use of the products listed on this site. No matter how natural a product is, it may have a potential of causing side effects and allergic reaction on certain individuals. You should consult your physician before taking any medication.
