5 facts you didn't know about neem
Neem is a shrub with 1001 virtues... literally! In powder or oil, herbal tea or poultice, cosmetics, body care or fertilizer... Yes, neem can do a lot for you.
Let's take a look at some of the unsuspected uses of neem.
NEEM, OR THE PLANT THAT 'CURES ALL ILLS'
1. Neem, a natural insecticide and plant repellent
This plant is commonly used to repel small insects and other undesirables. Thanks to the various molecules of which it is composed, it has repellent effects. These are due to one molecule in particular: azadirachtin.
Neem effectively combats over 100 species of insects and worms. The oil extracted from neem has a toxic action on the insects it repels. It also prevents their reproduction by acting on their reproductive organs.
However,neem oil is completely harmless to warm-blooded animals and human beings. It is also a powerful mosquito repellent, which larvae have difficulty resisting.
2. An anti-malarial known for its effectiveness
In Africa and other tropical regions of the world, malaria is a common disease. It is generally contracted through the bite of a mosquito carrying the parasite that causes malaria.
Malaria is a scourge that causes fever, diarrhoea, vomiting etc., but nature provides us with natural remedies. Neem is one of them.
It is often administered in the form of syrups or infusions of boiled neem leaves. These highly effective infusions act as nivaquine (an anti-malarial drug).
Thanks to its antiseptic properties, neem helps fight bacteria, viruses and fungi.
This strengthens the immune system, particularly the respiratory system and lungs. The more effective our immune system, the less difficulty our body has in defeating infections, viruses and bacteria.
Neem can therefore help combat viruses that cause respiratory problems (influenza, coronavirus, tuberculosis...). This may be due to its gedunin (or triterpene) content, a molecule that has been found to be effective in treating malaria.
Some even consider it to outperform chloroquine in curbing the effects of malaria. The plant is also known to purify the blood.
3. Reduce ulcers with neem powder
Did you know? Consuming neem helps reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. As a result, neem can help reduce ulcers. When consumed regularly, it can relieve a number of intestinal problems such as bloating, cramps and constipation.
4. A natural blood sugar regulator
Daily consumption of neem acts as a natural hypoglycemic. This means it reduces the amount of sugar in the blood. This is a positive point for diabetics. Neem's chemical components ensure that the body receives the right amounts of insulin. This regulation helps protect against the development of diabetes.
5. A skin purifier
Neemoil and powder are anti-infectious. They can be used to treat skin problems and irritations such as psoriasis and eczema. These products help relieve irritation while treating infections and fighting fungus.