Neem Leaves: An Ayurvedic Remedy With Proven Health Benefits

Many trees and plants have a wealth of medicinal properties. There was a time when diseases around the world were treated with the help of herbs, flowers and leaves. Charak Samhita, which is a Sanskrit text on Ayurveda talks in detail about the usage of plants for remedying health issues. One such plant that is a powerhouse is neem. Neem leaves are considered to be full of medicinal properties. In ayurvedic science, the bark and leaves of neem have been used to cure diseases. Neem leaves are filled with anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties which have amazing health benefits.

Now, even though modern science has discovered many medicines for diseases, the things used in ancient times can still prove to be very effective for people. The scientific name of neem is Azadirachta Indica. This tree has been known for its medicinal properties for centuries. Neem has been used extensively in Ayurveda, Unani and homoeopathic medicine and is also slowly being applied in the sphere of modern medicine. Neem contains many active compounds, which can be beneficial for our health. Scientists have isolated more than 140 compounds from different parts of neem, which can be used for their medicinal properties. Neem is also used extensively to treat chicken pox because of its anti-bacterial properties. Interestingly, even modern science suggests that neem heals chicken pox faster.

According to the report of the US National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), neem has been used to treat fever, infection, skin diseases, inflammation and dental problems. Neem leaves are a dynamo plant as they contain immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-ulcer, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-mutagenic, anti-carcinogenic and anti-oxidant properties.

Dr Saroj Gautam, Associate Professor of Aligarh Ayurvedic Medical College, told News18 that in Ayurveda, neem leaves are considered to be most beneficial for diabetic patients. These leaves contain kasaya juice which helps in controlling madhur rasa (blood sugar) after consumption. If diabetic patients chew a few neem leaves on an empty stomach, they can notice the effects in a few days. Apart from this, neem leaves can be considered effective in relieving skin problems. Neem leaves can be useful to get rid of skin problems in the rainy season. Still, neem leaves should be consumed after consulting a doctor. Pregnant women, children and the elderly should not eat them.