Ayurdevic Healing with Neem (Indian Lilac or Margosa)
Neem is also popular by the names of Indian Lilac or margosa and has been used for centuries by millions of people for its medicinal properties. The ability of neem to treat many illnesses is evident in its roots dating back to the earliest of Sanskrit writings. For over 4,500 years, Ayurvedic healers have used the bark, seeds, leaves, fruit, gum and oils of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica) for dozens of internal and external medical treatments.
Historically, its uses have included a wide variety of diseases and disorders including malaria, dental health problems, diabetes, heart disease, pain jaundice, leprosy, stomach ulcers, chicken pox, heat-rash and many other skin disorders including cuts, bruises, acne, boils and wounds.
Modern studies have isolated more than 140 compounds from different parts of the tree; these compounds have been shown, mostly in animal and laboratory studies exert anticancer, antioxidant, wound-healing and antimicrobial properties.
Neem is also a powerful insecticide that has become a staple of many natural head lice treatments and mosquito repellents.
It possesses antibacterial, antifungal, anti-ulcer, blood purifier, and antipyretic, anti parasitic, antiseptic, and antiemetic properties. Various parts of the tree are used in Ayurveda for treating a plethora of health problems.
This herb is used to treat diabetes, leprosy, itching, blood disorders, intestinal worms, piles, dysentery, jaundice, vomiting, wounds, eye disease, paraplegia, female genital diseases and all kinds of fevers.
Benefits & Method of Use:
Neem can be used in a variety of different ways. Traditionally, the fresh juice has been extracted from the plant and taken medicinally in doses of around 10 to 20 ml (2 to 4 teaspoons) thrice a day. You can also take 2 to 4 grams (1/7 to 1/10 of an ounce) of powdered leaf up to times per day.
When using neem oil, always blend with other base oils. Try starting with just a few drops and increase the amount slowly, to no more than 5% of the total blend. For hair, add to a base oil and leave on the hair for up to 10 minutes, before washing out with shampoo.
By K. Nagori
