Benefits of Neem Plant (Uses of Neem Oil and Neem Leaves)

Neem leaves are scientifically known as Azadirachta indica also called nim or margosa. Neem is a fast-growing tree of the mahogany family (Meliaceae).

Neem leaves are scientifically known as Azadirachta indica, called nim or margosa. Neem is a fast-growing tree of the mahogany family (Meliaceae). It grows in tropical regions such as Cameroon, Myanmar and India. 

In Cameroon, it is widespread in the northern part of the country. Neem is valued as a medicinal plant. The Neem Leaves, bark, and seeds are used to produce medicine. Every component of the neem plant is valuable. 

Neem is used as an insect repellant for tooth plaque, gingivitis (gum disease), diabetes, treatment of fungal infections and some other conditions.

Benefits or Uses of the Neem Plant

Almost every part of the neem plant is valuable and medicinal. Neem is rich in chemicals that might help prevent plaque formation in the mouth, reduce blood sugar levels, heal ulcers in the digestive tract etc. Neem is highly used based on its antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Clears Acne

Thanks to its antifungal and antibacterial properties, neem leaf and seed extracts are used to relieve skin blemishes, skin itches, skin dryness, pimples and redness. Neem extracts work well on acne as it helps to eliminate much of the bacteria that can aggravate the condition.

Oral Health Solution

In India, Neem is a common component in oral health products. Neem possesses antibacterial qualities that make it suitable for combating germs in the mouth and further maintaining our saliva's alkaline level. Neem twigs are chewed to help control plaque and ward off cavities that cannot cause bad breath.

Regulates Blood Sugar Levels (Diabetes Control)

Consuming an extract of neem leaves daily can help regulate your blood sugar levels. Neem leaves contain some chemical components that help optimize the receptor and ensure that the body receives proper amounts of insulin, which helps protect against the development of diabetes.

Treatment for Intestinal Ulcers

Neem leaves are known to conquer ulcers and a range of intestinal problems like bloating, constipation and cramping if taken routinely. Consuming neem leaves helps in reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.

Insecticide and Fungicide

Oil extracted from neem seeds is rich in an insecticidal ingredient called azadirachtin. Azadirachtin obstructs the hormones associated with insect moulting, preventing larvae from developing correctly into adults and inhibiting feeding.

Neem oil is used as an insect repellent, insecticide and fungicide. The oil is also a source of many commercial products like concentrates, dust etc.

Neem Oil kills soft-bodied insects on contact and reduces mating and reproduction. Repeated applications are often necessary because neem oil breaks down quickly when exposed to ultraviolet light.

Found in Shampoo and Cosmetics

Based on its antibacterial and antifungal properties, clinical research holds that neem oil extract is commonly used in shampoos to treat dandruff, especially in children. The oil is also added in soaps or creams to treat skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and athlete's foot.

Cures Breathing Problems (Asthma)

According to some experts, taking two drops of neem oil daily can help cure breathing challenges like asthma. Neem oil also helps to control cough, fever and phlegm.

Treatment of Malaria

Neem leaves contain gedunin that is used to treat malaria fevers. The consumption of neem leaves is lauded to minimize the symptoms of malaria and treat malaria.

How to Use Neem Leaves

You can learn how to use neem leaves doing any of the following methods:

Method 1

• Get about 15 to 20 neem leaves with a mortar and pestle. 
• Smatch the neem leaves in the mortar with the pestle till you get a greenish liquid. 
• Next up, add the mixture into a litre of water and sieve it into a bottle. 
• Drink a glass daily or dip a cotton ball into it and wipe your face.

Method 2

• Get some dry neem leaves.
• Get a mortar and pestle or a blender.
• Smatch the dry leaves into the mortar with the pestle or blend the dry leaves till it becomes powder.
• Take a bit of powder neem and mix with water.
• Apply the mixture on your face (in case of acne) or on your scalp (dandruff).

Method 3

• Boil neem leaves with water until the water turns greenish. 
• Use it after shampooing. 
• If you are suffering from dandruff, apply a paste of neem powder and water on your scalp and wash off after an hour, followed by shampoo and conditioner.

What are the Side Effects of Neem Plant

The consumption of neem leaves is said to have the following side effects:

1. Neem leaves and neem bark are not suitable for pregnant women to consume. They can cause a miscarriage when taken during pregnancy.
2. There's little or no information if neem is safe to use when breastfeeding.
3. Some researchers hold that neem can harm sperm. It might also reduce fertility in other ways. If you are trying to have children, avoid using neem.

What is the Cost of Neem Oil in Cameroon?

• A packet of Neem leaves is sold in Cameroon at 2000 FCFA.
• Neem oil is sold in litres, i.e. 0.5 litres is worth 7000 FCFA, and a litre is 15,000 FCFA.

Where to Buy Neem Leaves and Neem Oil in Cameroon?

In case you are in Cameroon, and you want to buy neem leaves or neem oil, you can contact:

• WhatsApp: 654792382
• Mobile Number: 680760725 / 668669655

See Also:

• Fantastic Benefits of Lemon you Didn't Know.
• How to Get Rid of Bad Breath