AZADIRACHTA INDICA, commonly known as Neem is the most common herb found. We as children have always heard of benefits of neem from our elders. In ancient time every house contained a neem tree, but now houses are too small to have one. So what, we have got parks serving us the same way. Neem is one of the most common trees around. From teeth to stomach it resolves to all kinds of issues. You must have seen your elders chewing neem or including it in the meal itself.

Let us see why it is called a wonder leaf.

It is an antioxidant, heals wounds and has got anti-microbial properties. Oil is extracted from neem seeds. It is called to extend various lines of health.
It has been used for the treating inflammations, infections, fever, skin diseases and dental disorders. Also it is used against hyperglycaemic, in treatment of ulcers, to strive against malaria. Fungal infections, bacteria and virus attacks are treated. It is an antioxidant, anti-mutagenic and possesses anti-carcinogenic properties.

The various parts of a neem tree are buds, root, leaves, bark and twigs, seeds, fruit and flowers. Every part of a neem tree serves us.

• Grind the leaves into a paste and use it to treat skin diseases. It cures leprosy, eye diseases, bloody nose, worms in intestine, loss of appetite. Also, for birth control and to cause abortions.
• The neem seeds are crushed and soaked to get oil from them. The seed oil is used to cure leprosy and intestinal worms.
• Neem roots are powdered to treat ailments.
• Neem flowers and fruits are cooked like vegetables to eat. Also, for reducing bile juice excretion and controlling phlegm.
• The fruit is also used for hemorrhoids, urinary tract disorders, eye disorders, diabetes, wounds, and leprosy.
• The stem is used as a tonic and astringent. Neem oil is used to get rid of head lice.

BUT Neem is a little unsafe if taken in large doses.
For children, taking neem seeds or oil orally is not safe. These are serious side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, blood disorders, seizures, loss of consciousness at times bigger like coma, brain disorders, and death. The effects can be seen within few hours of taking within infants.
Neem oil and neem bark are not safe when taken during pregnancy, can lead to a miscarriage.

If you are diabetic and take neem to regulate you blood sugar level then take care as there is some evidence that neem can lower blood sugar levels and might cause blood sugar to go too low.