Neem Leaves: An Ayurvedic Remedy with Proven Health Benefits

Many trees and plants have rich medicinal properties. There was a time when diseases across the world were treated with the help of herbs, flowers and leaves. Charak Samhita, a Sanskrit text on Ayurveda, details the use of plants in treating health problems. One such powerful plant. Neem leaves are considered rich in medicinal properties. In Ayurvedic science, neem bark and leaves have been used to treat diseases. Neem leaves are rich in antioxidants and antibacterial substances, which give them amazing health benefits.

Nowadays, modern science has discovered medicines to treat many diseases, but those used in ancient times have also proven 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 is widely used in Ayurveda, Unani medicine, and Homeopathic medicine, and is gradually finding application in the field of modern medicine as well. Neem contains many active compounds that are beneficial for health. Scientists have isolated more than 140 compounds from different parts of neem, which can be used for its medicinal properties. Neem is also widely used to treat chickenpox, as it has antibacterial properties. Interestingly, even modern science suggests that neem cures chickenpox faster.

According to a report by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), neem is used to treat fever, infections, skin disorders, inflammation and dental problems. Neem leaves are a dynamo plant that possesses immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antihyperglycemic, antiulcer, antibacterial, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antimutagenic, anticarcinogenic and antioxidant properties.

Dr Saroj Gautam, Associate Professor at 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 level) after ingestion. If a diabetic patient chews a few neem leaves on an empty stomach, they can notice the effects after a few days. Apart from this, neem leaves are considered to be effective in easing skin problems. Neem leaves help get rid of skin problems during the rainy season. Still, neem leaves should be consumed only after consulting a doctor. Pregnant women, children and elderly people should not eat them.