According to the World Health Organization, about 80% of the population in the developing countries still rely on traditional medicines. More than half of the world’s population depend on plants and plant products to get their medicines. Neem is one such tree known to cure various ailments such as skin infections, septic sores, infected burns and certain fungal infection that affect the human body. Rich green in colour, this tree can easily be found in the homes of people. In the market, there are various soaps, lotions, and shampoos made out of neem oil. The medicinal value of neem has been well known in India for more than 4000 years. Their leaves are really effective in keeping the mosquitoes away. Adding neem leaves to lukewarm water and taking a bath is very effective for people who are affected with chicken pox. Neem is very effective in improving liver function and also helps balance your blood sugar levels.

Azadirachta indica is commonly known as neem. Azadirachta indica, the Latinized name is derived from Persian and it means “the free tree of India”.The tree can reach up to a height of 15 - 20 meters. Neem tree usually grows in tropical regions. The Sanskrit name for neem is nimba and it means “good health”. The flavonoids present in neem act as a cure against fungal infections. It also contains azadirachtin, a natural insect repellent.

Neem also plays a vital role in cuisines. It can both be boiled and fried to be used in curries and dishes. In Myanmar, neem leaves are used in salads. They remain fresh for a couple of months if they are frozen. Neem poses numerous health benefits and has medicinal properties.

Owing to the medicinal properties of neem, it is usually considered even higher than Kalpavruksha, a wish-fulfilling divine tree. Neem is also famously called using the Sanskrit name Aristha which means “reliever of sickness”. In Vedas, neem is referred to as Sarva Roga Nivarini meaning “the curer of all ailments”. In Africa, it is known as “Mahorbany” because they believe that it can cure about forty major and minor diseases.

Some basic facts about Neem:

• Botanical name: Azadirachta indica
• Family: Meliaceae
• Sanskrit name: Aristha
• Parts used: Almost all the parts of the neem can be used - the seeds, leaves, fruits, flowers, oil, roots and the bark. Neem oil is used in cosmetics, shampoos, and lotion.
• Native region and geographical distribution: Neem tree is mainly cultivated in the Indian subcontinent - India, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
• Uses: Neem leaf is used for leprosy, eye disorders, intestinal worms, upset stomach, skin ulcers, and blood vessels, fever, diabetes and liver problems. Neem leaves are also used for abortions or as a birth control measure.
• Interesting information: It is believed that if one plants three or more than three neem trees in their lifetime, they would go to heaven.

from myUpchar.com के स्वास्थ्य संबंधी लेख
via https://www.myupchar.com/tips/neem-ke-fayde-aur-nuksan/