Neem (Azadirachta indica)
Photo: Kevinsooryan · CC BY-SA 3.0
- General
- 4 conditions
- Licensed photo
Overview
Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a large evergreen tree with compound leaves and white flowers, considered in India as a “village pharmacy” for its broad-spectrum antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects. Both leaves and seeds are used to treat infections, skin conditions, and other ailments.
Traditional uses & properties
Anti-Inflammatory & Antimicrobial: Addresses dysbiosis, GI infections, skin conditions (eczema, ulcers, rashes), and parasitic issues. Antifungal & Antiviral: Useful in hair lotions for dandruff, headlice, and certain scalp infections; soothes ringworm and scabies. Insecticidal & Contraceptive Research: Contains azadirachtins that repel insects and may reduce male/female fertility. Blood Sugar Control: Neem leaves and oil can help stabilize blood glucose levels.
Traditional preparations
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person.
A cream can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions. Apply as required.
Safety & precautions
Children & Pregnancy: Avoid internal use; external use is safer. Short-Term Internal Use: Limit to 7-14 days. Fertility: Neem can affect both male and female fertility.
Drug & food interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Native to Iran, Pakistan, India, and Sri Lanka, neem grows in forests and rural areas, often along roadsides for shade. Now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide (e.g., Malaysia, Indonesia, West Africa), neem thrives in loamy soil and full sun. Leaves and seeds are gathered year-round.
Traditionally used for
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Frequently asked questions
What is Neem (Azadirachta indica) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Neem (Azadirachta indica) as follows: Anti-Inflammatory & Antimicrobial: Addresses dysbiosis, GI infections, skin conditions (eczema, ulcers, rashes), and parasitic issues. Antifungal & Antiviral: Useful in hair lotions for dandruff, headlice, and certain scalp infections; soothes ringworm and scabies. Insecticidal & Contraceptive Research: Contains azadirachtins that repel insects and may reduce male/female fertility. Blood Sugar Control: Neem leaves and oil can help stabilize blood glucose levels.
How is Neem (Azadirachta indica) prepared?
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person. Eczema, Acne, Psoriasis: A cream can be used to treat a variety of skin conditions. Apply as required.
What safety cautions apply to Neem (Azadirachta indica)?
Children & Pregnancy: Avoid internal use; external use is safer. Short-Term Internal Use: Limit to 7-14 days. Fertility: Neem can affect both male and female fertility.
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