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Health and Medicinal Benefits of Neem
The Miracle Plant

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jamaican_neem_leavesHealth and Medicinal Benefits of Neem

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

As a nation, Jamaicans as a whole strongly believe that there is a natural herbal cure for every health issue. One of these herbs that have insurmountable health and medicinal benefits is Neem. Recently Wellesley had the opportunity to have a chat with Sarah “the Neem Queen” in Sandy Bay, Hanover, where she shared with us the many benefits of the Neem plant and how she uses it.

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Traditionally Jamaicans have used Neem to simply brew as a tea, as pest control, for diabetes, poor circulation, gas, cold and for the skin and hair. The Neem Queen told us that all parts of the Neem plant can be utilised in different ways, for example, you can eat its naturally sweet berries to gain some of its health benefits, use the stalks for cleaning your teeth and use the leaves for making tea.

We also learned that Neem is one of the oldest medicinal Herbs and goes all the way back over 5 thousand years. Here are some of its many benefits:

Immune System Support and Oral Health

Neem is a natural immune booster, thanks to its potent antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Compounds like Nimbin, nimbidin, and quercetin present in neem leaves help strengthen the immune system by fighting off harmful pathogens and free radicals. Regular consumption of neem-based products, such as neem tea or capsules, can help fortify your body's defence mechanisms and reduce the risk of infections.

Neem is also widely recognized for its oral health benefits. It possesses antibacterial properties that combat bacteria responsible for gum diseases, tooth decay, and bad breath. Neem twigs have been used traditionally as toothbrushes due to their ability to prevent plaque formation and maintain healthy gums. Furthermore, neem oil can be found in various natural toothpaste formulations, providing a refreshing and protective dental care experience.

Skin and Hair Care

Neem's exceptional properties extend to skin care as well. Its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory attributes make it an effective remedy for numerous skin conditions. Neem oil is known to alleviate acne, reduce redness, and control excess oil production, making it an ideal natural treatment for oily and acne-prone skin. Additionally, neem can help soothe dryness, eczema, psoriasis, and other inflammatory skin conditions, providing relief and promoting healthier skin.

Neem's benefits extend to hair care too. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties help combat scalp infections, dandruff, and itching. Using neem oil or neem-based shampoos can nourish the scalp, strengthen hair follicles, and promote hair growth. Neem also conditions and revitalizes hair, leaving it soft, shiny, and manageable.

Blood Purification and Digestive Health

Neem has been traditionally used as a blood purifier in Ayurvedic medicine. Its detoxifying properties help cleanse the blood, remove toxins, and promote a healthy circulatory system. Regular consumption of neem-based supplements or neem tea can aid in improving overall blood quality, reducing the risk of various cardiovascular diseases.

It plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Its bitter compounds stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, facilitating efficient digestion and absorption of nutrients. Neem can help relieve constipation, bloating, and other gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, neem has shown potential in combating intestinal parasites, such as worms, due to its anthelmintic properties.

Anti-inflammatory Properties and Antioxidant Activity

Neem possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective natural remedy for various inflammatory conditions. It can help reduce inflammation in the body, alleviate pain, and provide relief from conditions like arthritis, rheumatism, and muscle soreness. Neem's anti-inflammatory compounds, such as nimbidin and nimbin, inhibit the production of inflammatory mediators, promoting a balanced immune response.

The high concentration of antioxidants in neem helps combat oxidative stress caused by free radicals. These antioxidants, including vitamin C, carotenoids, and flavonoids, neutralize harmful free radicals, preventing cellular damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disorders. Regular consumption of neem-based products can help protect the body against oxidative damage and promote overall health.

Diabetes Management and Anticancer Properties

Neem has demonstrated potential in managing diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels. Its active compounds, such as gedunin and nimbidin, enhance insulin sensitivity, promote glucose uptake by cells, and inhibit glucose absorption in the intestine. Neem also helps lower HbA1c levels, a marker of long-term blood sugar control. However, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional before using neem as a complementary approach to diabetes management.

Emerging research suggests that neem exhibits anticancer properties, offering potential in cancer prevention and treatment. Studies have shown that neem extracts can induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells, inhibit tumour growth, and impede the spread of cancer cells. The active compounds in neem, such as nimbolide and azadirachtin, show promise in targeting various types of cancer, including breast, colon, prostate, and lung cancers.

Wound Healing and Antimalarial Agent

Neem has long been used topically for wound healing due to its antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Applying neem oil or neem-based creams on minor cuts, burns, and wounds can help prevent infection, reduce inflammation, and accelerate the healing process. Neem's antibacterial activity helps protect the wound from microbial contamination, promoting faster recovery.

Certain compounds found in neem, such as gedunin and nimbidin, exhibit antimalarial properties. Neem has been traditionally used to treat and prevent malaria in endemic regions. Its effectiveness against the malaria parasite has been studied, and it shows potential as a natural alternative or adjunct to conventional antimalarial drugs. However, further research is required to fully understand its mechanism of action and optimize its use.

In the Video Wellesley also spoke about other uses of Neem such as for contraception (so pregnant women should avoid this), as an insect repellant, its use in Petcare and even its cultural significance in other areas such as India, where it is called the Miracle Tree, and people would simply lean against the tree when feeling ill, to get better.

Neem is certainly a miracle plant and a product that I surely keep on hand, you should too. Take a look at the video below, it is certainly an interesting one. Sarah even shares her various Neem Products and how you can get in touch with her to get some of your own.

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References & Sources For Health and Medicinal Benefits of Neem

  1. Neem: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose & Precautions. (n.d.). RxList. https://www.rxlist.com/neem/supplements.htm
  2. NEEM: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. (n.d.).  https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-577/neem
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