Few medicinal herbs are as versatile as neem. This tropical relative of mahogany originates in Southeast Asia, where traditional practitioners use it to treat everything from scabies to arthritis. I have personally experienced great success using neem oil to treat my cats’ skin problems, including fleas and milliary dermatitis. In addition to offering several benefits to pets, livestock, pets and the environment, extracts of the neem tree provide dozens of health benefits to human beings. While I advise against the use of neem as an exclusive treatment for a serious illness like HIV or cancer, I recommend it as a safe, effective remedy for common complaints and ailments. According to the Neem Foundation, the following are some of the known benefits associated with neem tree oils and extracts.
Antibacterial
Like tea tree oil and several other essential oils, neem destroys pathogenic bacteria on contact. Some people use this non-irritating oil to cleanse wounds and protect infected skin. Both aqueous and oil-based extracts of neem can also be used to sterilize kitchen areas, tabletops, toilet seats and other surfaces that collect bacteria.
Taken internally, neem reduces fertility in both men and women. At least one study has demonstrated that men taking neem supplements experience a decrease in sperm motility; however, the supplement does not appear to affect sex drive or virility. Neem oil is also an effective, non-irritating spermicide, and it is traditionally used as an aborificant in much of its native range.
Parasite Elimination
Neem can help to eliminate parasites, both within the body and on the skin. In addition to repelling fleas, ticks, lice and skin mites, neem oil can help to rid the colon of hookworms, tapeworms and other parasites. Neem is an effective treatment for scabies in both humans and pets.
Cancer Treatment
The Neem Foundation reports that neem may play a role in the search for a cancer cure. A few small-scale studies have demonstrated that neem helps to eliminate both benign and malignant tumors. Some naturopaths recommend neem tea and topical neem oil for people suffering from cancers and benign tumors. However, evidence of its efficacy is still very limited.
HIV/AIDS Treatment
Neem is one of many popular complementary treatments for HIV infection and AIDS. It appears to help combat the virus itself while also strengthening the immune system. Because AIDS is a serious disease, it should not be treated using neem alone until further research has established its effectiveness.
Skin Disease
In Ayurveda, neem is regarded as an important plant for the treatment of all skin diseases. Neem oil can help to eliminate eczema, scabies, psoriasis, dry skin and hives. Some practitioners recommend bathing in neem oil or neem tea; whereas others encourage the use of neem oil applied directly to the skin.
Historically, neem has been nicknamed the “Toothbrush Tree” because of its ability to enable dental health. Neem is a common ingredient in toothpaste and natural mouthwash; its antibacterial properties can help to eliminate the bacteria that cause dental decay and bad breath. Neem oil may also speed recovery from gingivitis.
