NEEM USES:

In India, NEEM (Azadiracta indica or Margosa) is a very common tree. It is considered to be the “village pharmacy” and has played a key role in Ayurvedic medicine and agriculture since time immemorial. It is a large evergreen tree growing 10 to 11 meters tall. The leaves are divided into numerous leaflets, each resembling a full-grown leaf. The tree bears small white flowers in auxiliary bunches and 1.5 to 2 cm long green or yellow fruits with a seed in each. There’s no part of the tree that isn’t useful. And it has a lot more than just medicinal properties, covering everything from the roots holding the water in the soil to the shade it gives. The seeds contain substantial amount of essential oil (upto 40%) known as neem oil. The bitter constituents separated from this oil are nimbin, nimbinin, nimbicidine, azadiractin, salanin, etc.

Neem has so many characteristics that it’s not only useful for healing the earth as well as using all these products to help heal us. This is just a partial quick overview of some of the uses of neem, Healing power and curative properties: Neem tree is generally considered to be an air purifier and a preventive against malarial fever and cholera. All parts of the tree possess medicinal properties. The leaves are useful in relieving flatulence, promoting the removal of catarrhal matter and phlegm from the bronchial tubes, and in increasing secretion and discharge of urine. They also act as an insecticide. The bark is a bitter tonic and stimulant. It arrests secretions and bleeding besides counter-acting any spasmodic disorders. The root bark has the same properties as the bark of the trunk. The gum discharged by the stem is a stimulant and tonic with a soothing effect on the skin and mucous membranes.

Malaria: An infusion or a decoction of the fresh leaves is a bitter vegetable tonic and alternative, especially in chronic malarial fevers because of its action on the liver. It should be taken in doses of 15 to 50 grams.

Piles: The use of 3 grams of the inner bark of neem with 6 grams of jaggery every morning, is very effective in piles. To check bleeding piles, 3 to 4 neem fruits can be administered with water.

Leprosy: The sap of the neem tree has been found to be effective in leprosy, when taken in daily doses of 50-60 grams. Simultaneously, the patient’s body should be massaged with the sap. This regimen should be continued for about 4-6 weeks. If the sap is not available, 12 grams of neem leaves and 3 decigrams of pepper can be ground in water and taken.

Skin disorders: The leaves, applied externally, are very useful in skin diseases. They are especially beneficial in the treatment of boils, chronic ulcers, eruptions of smallpox, syphilitic sores, glandular swellings and wounds, they can be used either as a poultice, decoction or liniment. An ointment prepared from neem leaves is also very effective in healing ulcers and wounds. This ointment is prepared by frying 50 grams of leaves in 50 grams of pure ghee and mashing the mixture thoroughly in the same ghee till an ointment consistency is obtained. A paste prepared from the bark by rubbing it in water can also be applied on wounds.

Hair disorders: If there is any hair loss or it has ceased to grow, washing with the decoction of neem leaves helps. This will not only stop hair from falling but also help their growth. Frequent application of neem oil also destroys insects in the hair. It also helps in premature graying of hairs.

Eye diseases: Neem is very useful in eye diseases. Application of the juice of neem leaves to the eyes every night is highly effective in the treatment of night blindness! The leaves should be pounded and made into a thin paste with water. The juice should then be pressed out through a clean piece of cloth and applied to the eyes with an eye rod. The juice obtained by rubbing a few neem leaves with a little water and stained through a clean piece of cloth is useful in pain in the eyes caused by conjunctivitis. It is warmed, and a few drops put into the ear opposite the ailing eye, to give relief. Eyes are cured after a few applications.

Ear ailments: Steam fomentation with neem decoction provides immediate comfort in cases of earache. A handful of neem leaves should be boiled in a liter of water and the ear fomented with the steam thus produced, The juice of neem leaves mixed with an equal quantity of pure honey is an effective remedy for any boils in the ear. The juice is to be warmed a little and a few drops fused in the ear. Regular application for a few days will provide relief from such ailments. In case of an insect fluxing in the ear, the juice of neem leaves, with some common salt, is warmed and a few drops injected in the ear, kills the insect. Two drops of lukewarm neem oil put in the ear twice a day can cure deafness!

Oral disorders: Cleaning the teeth regularly with a neem twig prevents gum diseases. It firms up loose teeth, relieves toothache, evacuates the bad odor and protects the mouth from various infections.

Other Therapeutic Uses: It is effectively used against inflammation, arthritis, for fevers, malaria, anti-microbial, which means viral bacteria as well as fungal and many parasites, tumors, the ulcers, diabetes and as insecticide.

Why use antibiotics when we can use nature’s own natural products? Which also do have an anti-microbial function but on a slightly different level because it doesn’t affect the body in the same way. The main side effect of non-steroidal and anti-inflammatory drugs is their ability to produce gastric lesions. The dosage used with neem leaf extract, 100, 300 and 1000 milligrams per kilogram, needed to produce anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-pyretic activity had no adverse effects in the gastric of rats. This is what’s unique about neem. It is actually as effective as phenylbutazone as an anti-inflammatory and it does not adversely affect the stomach. As a matter of fact, it helps the stomach in many ways.

Insulin is not a great answer for diabetes. But for some people, it’s the only answer. But if you could get their body to a place they needed less and less of it, which would be wonderful. And there are actually people that go from a little bit of insulin down to none with the neem administration. A remarkable number of insulin-dependent diabetics were able to reduce their insulin from thirty to fifty percent when treated with neem leaf extract and neem oil! That is significant because the less you have to take insulin, the better off you are. And there are patients that have been on oral diabetic agents taking their own blood sugars, take the neem capsule extract and find their blood sugars are normalizing and they don’t really need to take their medicines. Using the neem oil, they were able to lower fasting blood sugar twenty-six percent, which is pretty significant. The general impression is that maybe it enhances insulin receptor sensitivity since it seems to work well on Type II diabetics. And that’s basically what Type II diabetes is.

Neem oil is a vaginal contraceptive. It’s very effective as a topical drug for preventing pregnancy, used topically in the vagina. By using neem vaginal suppositories before sexual contact, it could very well prevent AIDS as well as prevent pregnancy, not to mention gonorrhea, trichomonas, chlamydia and whatever else might be in there. Neem is very useful at the time of child-birth. Administration of the juice of neem leaves to the woman in labor before the child-birth produces normal contraction in the uterus and prevents possible inflammation. It corrects bowel movements and checks onset of fevers, thereby facilitating the normal delivery. The use of a tepid decoction of neem leaves as a vaginal douche heals any wounds caused during delivery and disinfects the vaginal passage.
Neem is a very powerful insecticide to kill soil nematodes and other plant parasites and is also useful as a mosquito repellant for domestic applications!

Blood/Heart Related Diseases:
High blood pressure, blood clots, high cholesterol levels and arrhythmic heart action are major causes of heart attack. Neem leaf extracts have been shown to reduce clotting, lower blood pressure and cholesterol, slow rapid heartbeat, and inhibit irregularities of the rhythms of the heart. There are also reports that some compounds can produce effects similar to mild sedatives reducing anxiety and other emotional and physical states that can precipitate heart attacks. This may be the result of physiological effects of blood vessel dilation and lower blood pressure.

The antihistaminic action of nimbidin in leaf extracts cause blood vessels to dilate and may be responsible for reducing blood pressure. Extract of neem leaf produce a significant decrease in blood pressure which can last for several hours. Another neem leaf extract, sodium nimbidinate, administered to people with congestive cardiac failure acted successfully as a diuretic. Neem leaf extracts reduced cholesterol levels significantly in recent studies. It reduced serum cholesterol by about 30% beginning two hours after administration and kept the level low for an additional four hours until the test ended. Neem leaf extract exhibited anti-arrhythmic activity, returning to normal within eight minutes of administration, artificially induced arrhythmia. Neem extracts can also decrease abnormally high heart rates. Ranjan Mogre Tel +91-22-6186258 email mogre@vsnl.com

" WASHINGTON, March 3-- Raindrops falling on the leaves of ornamentals like roses and lilacs can spread nasty fungi to these and other flowering plants. But U.S. Department of Agriculture research shows that oil from a tropical tree stops fungi from infecting the plants. "Oil extracted from the Neem tree, native to India in a dilution of 1 percent in water "acts like a raincoat" against spores of fungi ".

When we with our team in Holland became aware of the anti-fungi working of Neem we made an oil and later a cream in which we used Neem as the fatty (carrier) oil. We then gave it to people suffering from athlete's feet with staggering results. Of the 30 samples we gave 22 people cured their problem within 3 days. With 2 people it had little or no effect and by 1 person it seemed to get worse ! Since then we have used name together with St. Johns Worth macerate, with Almond oil, and with evening primrose oil against inflamed skin and dry eczema. In combination with chamomile and oregano it works splendidly, although it takes time, for curing those ugly crumbling toe nails. A most remarkable result was obtained from a test done with children suffering from the effects of chickenpox. Most kids complained of unbearable itching. We made a bath oil by taking 85% to which we added 15% emulsifier. About 20 ml of this mixture was added to a lukewarm bath. After bathing the children could go to sleep without scratching !

Infected nail beddings, dipped with at night, will the next morning look clean and healthy. With it is the same as any other oil. There is a great difference in quality so try to obtain cold pressed Neem where possible.

We have developed a product which is being marketed by a Greek Company called Geovet-Hellas S.A. who calls it Vivere-Fyt. . It comes packed in 100 ml plastic bottles. It contains cold pressed to which a mixture of essential oils, among which Tagetes, has been added.

As Emulsifier we have added an Ethoxylated Castor Oil.
Tagetes is a well know repellent and in combination with Neem the effect is more then satisfying. To enable an easy way to apply the Neem we have made the solution self-emulsifying. Simply add the contents of the 200 ml bottle in which we supply the product into 20 liters of lukewarm water. Stir, and your solution for spraying is ready.

From: barbara karst nutswithherbs@yahoo.com
I want to say that a 2-5% neem added to a hand or body lotion does wonderful things for this herb gardeners abused skin- it does stink and a little lavender oil covers the odor nicely I also recommend the light olive oil- you can buy it in the supermarket- it is almost clear- little odor, has never gone rancid and takes EO nicely incidentally a friend used the Neem creams on her scars after Mastectomy with good results - reportedly used in India for cancer-internally I think.

www.neemaura.com I think I have their name right- sells for about$10.00 an ounce- They also sell great lotion and soaps and you can get a lot of info on uses from them and copies of some research-has been researched widely in India. I have seen it at web sites for much less- $4.00 for several ounces, I think- this is the oil- the leaf seems widely available in capsules. I wonder if those who sell it much cheaper cut it. It smells AWFUL- I have read that it is used for Gum diseases - I don't think I would ever get up the courage to take it internally. I will check to see if this is the website the co is NeemAura, in Florida- they can put you in touch with an Ayurvedic practioner who seems very knowledgeable and answers you by e-mail!

Neem and Aids
This just came through on another herbal list, and I thought it was interesting! I wonder how it would work, if used in a topical lotion ~ absorbed dermally so as to ward off things we all come in contact with. I think I might try it on the back of the right knee!

Neem has immuno-stimulating properties for both the lymphocytic and cell-mediated immune systems. When human white blood cells infected with HIV were cultured with s, the production of viral proteins dropped dramatically. Dr. Upadhyay and Dr. Berre'- Sinousi (one of the scientists who identified the AIDS virus) believe the s block production of viral proteins thereby stopping replication of the virus.

Studies of the effects of neem bark and neem leaf extracts show they significantly reduced the P-24 viral proteins and induced in vitro production of IL-1 interferon. The National Institutes of Health, in a preliminary study, reports encouraging results from in vitro tests where neem bark extracts killed the AIDS virus. Another possible effect neem may have on combating the AIDS virus is its apparent ability to enhance the cell-mediated immune response to infection. Using extracts made by soaking neem bark in water, Dr. Van Der Nat (Netherlands) determined that the extract produces a strong immune stimulating reaction. The neem bark extract stimulated lymphocyte function which increased production of MIF, a lymphokine that attaches macrophages and monocytes to infectious agents.

Believed to be the first line of defense against HIV infection, neem's ability to enhance the cell-mediated immune response may provide protection from vaginal contraction of the disease if neem is used as a vaginal lubricant before intercourse. If even only partially successful in preventing the spread of AIDS, until scientists develop a cure, neem could save countless lives.

In cases where HIV has not advanced to full-blown AIDS some of the patients appear to have the enhanced cell-mediated immune responses that neem can help produce. However, once contracted, AIDS may be treated by ingesting neem leaf extracts, whole leaf or by drinking neem tea.

Many of the complications associated with AIDS can also be treated with neem leaf or bark and creams. Lesions of the skin or burning sensations have been successfully treated with neem leaves added to bath water and by lotions containing .

Neem and the Immune System:
Neem, especially neem bark, is recognized for its immunomodulatory polysaccharide compounds. These compounds appear to increase antibody production. Other compounds in neem enhance the immune system via a different mechanism; the cell- mediated immune response, the body's first form of defense.

Only when this system appears to be unable to stop an infectious onslaught is the more massive immune system involved. It acts as a non-specific immuno-stimulant that activates the cell mediated immune response. This then creates an enhanced response to any future challenges by disease organisms. When was injected under the skin there was a significant increase in leukocytic cells and perioneal macrophages showed enhanced phagocytic activity and expression of MHC class II antigens. Production of gamma interferon was also induced by the injection. Spleen cells showed higher lymphocyte reaction to infection but did not augment anti-TT antibody response.

Water soluble neem leaf extracts, when taken orally, produced an increase in lymphomatic counts and both red and white blood cells as well as lymphocyte counts. In studies on the birth control effects of neem the major factor in that effect appears to be an increase in the immune response where neem has been applied that causes the body to reject the fetus as a foreign body.

By enhancing the cellular immune response most pathogens can be eliminated before they cause the ill feeling associated with disease. This mechanism could also help in diseases that involve the immune system, like AIDS. Ingesting small quantities of neem leaf or bark powder every other day or drinking a mild neem tea will enhance antibody production and the body's cell-mediated immune response, helping to prevent infections.

Neem nail-polish:
Take a bottle of clear nailpolish. (or a coloured one, as it turns the clear type brownish) and mix with half that amount of Neemoil. You can even take equal parts. Mix thoroughly and return to the bottle. Keep the rest tightly sealed for future use. If it thickens you can add some nailpolish remover or aceton to the mixture.

Apply several layers on the effected nail (it has become rather thin because of the oil added and takes a long time to dry between layers). That way the neemoil stays in contact with the nail (and the fungus) all the time. Remove and re-apply once a week.

I don't like nail polish acetone or remover myself, but it is the best way to treat a nail fungus. It is going to take a long time, but eventually you will have healthy nails again. Did I mention that it has a very strong smell? A bit like garlicky peanut butter with some rotten eggs thrown in, but one gets used to it, even with the smell of nail polish added :-)))

Basic Neembalm:
15 ml Neemoil
15 ml Olive or other oils
2 grs beeswax (more if you like a stiff balm)
Heat and stir and once everything is melted: take of the heat. Let cool a bit, stir, add the EO's, stir again and pour in pot.

Excema: use chickweed macerate, or calendula or yarrow or things like that. Use your imagination. Some yarrow essential oil, or German chamomile helps as well.

Psoriasis: use the Neemoil pure or make a balm just like above. Maybe add some Myrtl EO to it.

Fungus on the skin: add Thyme EO and Manuka EO (or both) and you can use Calendula infused oil to soften the effect of the Thyme oil on the skin.

Head lice: Cover scalp with neemoil neat and leave for the night. In the morning comb the dead lice and nits out of the hear and wash with neem shampoo. Repeat every week for three weeks.

Neem shampoo: add 25 % of neemoil to a shampoo base and wash daily; leftovers can be used up, as it is really wonderful for your scalp, also when you have dandruff. I always add a little bit to my shampoo for healthy hair and scalp.

Laurie Borgman http://members.ams.chello.nl/l.borgman

I copied this from the remedies section of the www.origionalneemco.com I found on the internet. I had to get to it from another website--but tons of good remedies-which all consisted of Neem tea, capsules, extract, or cream (of course) nothing else added.

Blood Disorders and Neem

Blood Poisoning Caused by bacterial infections that have infected the blood, blood poisoning is relieved by neem's anti-bacterial compounds (Patel and Travedi, 1962). Either whole neem leaf or teas made from neem leaves will provide the necessary s to the body. Research article index Effects of Neem on Blood Sugar Levels Neem in a Kenyan Herbal Clinic: Wamirithu Herbal Clinic - Diabetes Blood Poisoning Diabetes Kidney Problems Poor Circulation Recipe for Neem Tea Distilled water should always be used when making tea.

Measure one good handful, about one cup of whole leaf, to one quart of water. If using leaf powder, use one ounce or one quarter cup of powder per quart of water.
Bring the water to a boil.
Remove from heat.
Add the whole leaf or powder.
Cover and let it stand overnight or 24 hours.

With the leaf you simply strain the liquid, put into a bottle or jug and drink as needed. When powder is used put the brew into a tall glass jar or bottle and let it stand in the refrigerator until the sediment settles to the bottom. Then draw off or siphon the liquid on top into a jug or storage bottle.

The below link will give you wonderful information on .
http://www.neemaura.com/

Date: Sun, 18 Mar 2001 21:07:09 EST
From: Olatou@aol.com

Subject: Re: eczema story Well, this is not about aromatherapy, but it is about success with eczema.

I sell soap, etc. at a local Farmer's Market in my area. Last year I did a cucumber infused soap that sold so well, I made more. In an effort to get a natural green color for the cucumber soap, I made a decoction of neem powder for a portion of the lye water. Naturally this was neem leaf powder, and I watched in horror as my wonderful cucumber soap turned chocolate pudding brown (complete with brown suds).

Undaunted, I printed out some educational material on neem and sold it as rather then cucumber. A brown haired, half hysterical woman, came back two weeks, claiming I had preformed a miracle. She asked me to look at her hands. I was puzzled, but evidently they had been freed from eczema. She walked off with a box of soap, leaving me four.

The Goat cheese lady got curious, and asked me about it. She was also up a tree with eczema and the cortisone shots weren't working. She bought a bar of the and within two weeks HER eczema had cleared up.

Now I'm using , as people have been asking me if I had it in another color (other then chocolate pudding brown) - and am working on a lotion (but it won't have neem in it, unless it's )
Neem has a horrible smell EXCEPT in a dried soap, then it has no smell.
The oil comes out a honey color (nice with some ground calendula).
Leafy things, of course turn brown in soap.
I don't know what to say about your story. But if you find something that works for you, continue on with it.
Susan in Cambridge

John Kercher writes:
Neem has a limited effect on lice, however there is another product from India , a beam from which the oil or a infuse kills every lice instantaneously. I will post the name in a day or so, we received the beans today here in Greece, botanical details are in my office, and incidentally, I wrote an article in 1990 on , when it was not so well known. Since then it is widely used as , among other things, an ecologically friendly fertilizer and pesticide. But forbidden throughout the common market because of toxicity. Yet, the USA department of agriculture since long recommends Neem for orchid growing etc. I think here in Europe it is the powerful industrial pesticide manufacturers body which is behind it all.

I brought form India neem leaf extract with me (powder) , great for making soaps and toothpaste and creams. Also dried Neem leaf powder for medical and cosmetic purposes and you all ought to look into Karanj or Pongamia oil. The Indian variety is better than the Pongamia oil from Australia. Great for a lot of medical applications and as a carrier oil

Date: Sat, 10 Mar 2001 06:13:17 +00100 (MET)
From: kercher@euronet.nl
Subject: Pongamia or Karanja oil

Karanja Oil and Cake are derived from the Punjam/Karanja tree (pongammia glabra), which is found throughout India. All parts of the tree have medicinal properties.

Karanja Oil is widely used as a pesticide, and in the pharmaceutical industry. It is also used in leather dressing, soap making, lubrication and illumination. Pharmaceutical preparations based on Karanja oil are used for treating skin diseases including scales, herpes and leucoderma. The oil possesses insecticidal and anti-bacterial properties.

The Pongamia tree’s Indomalaysian species were once found only in alluvial and coastal situations from India to Fiji, anywhere from sea level to 1200 m.In India the tree is more commonly known as the Karanja, its oil known there as Karanja Oil. Now however, this fast growing glabrous 25 m tall tree with its white to pink fragrant flowers can be found in Australia, Florida, Hawaii, India, Malaysia, Oceania, Philippines, and Seychelles. An indication to the importance this tree has in the field of medicine? Or is it perhaps due to the fact that Pongamia oil ( Or Poonga oil as the Australians call it) has been proven to be an excellent substitute for synthetic pesticides? Or could Pongamia oil one day be the energy source for Diesel engines? Or is it because many tree nurseries sell the it to decorate gardens?

To all of these questions the answers are affirmative and although Aromatherapists, Herbalists and Soapmakers will look more at the therapeutic values Pongamia oil has to offer, the oil has more impressive applications.

Energy Wherever it is grown, the wood (calorific value 4,600 kcal/kg) is burned for cooking fuel (NAS, 1980a). The thick oil from the seeds is used for illumination, as a kerosene substitute, and lubrication. It would seem that with upgraded germplasm one could target for 2 MT oil and 5 MT firewood per hectare per year on a renewable basis. The oil has been tried as fuel in diesel engines, showing a good thermal efficiency (C.S.I.R., 1948– Trees of ten reach adult height in 4 or 5 years, bearing at the age of 4–7 years. A single tree is said to yield 9–90 kg seed per tree, indicating a yield potential of 900––9000 kg seed/ha, 25% of which might be rendered as oil (assuming 100 trees/ha). In general, Indian mills extract 24–27.5% oil, village crushers, 18–22% oil.

Agriculture Karanja Oil is widely used as a pesticide. The oil possesses insecticidal and anti-bacterial properties. Field trials of mixtures of (Azadirchata indica) and Karanja Oil (pongammia glabra), have shown excellent results against several families of pests. 2% Karanja oil-resin soap sprays are reported to be effective against the nymph and adult stages of the green bug of coffee.

The cake left after extraction of oil from Karanja, is an excellent manure and an insect repellent. It has a high nitrogen content (4.2% nitrogen, 0.9% phosphorus and 2% potassium). Plasma Karanja Cake can be applied either as a basal or top dressing and provides the crop with essential nutrients, while significantly reducing the number of soil insect pests, fungi, bacteria and nematodes.

Karanja oil with a minimum karanjin content of 20,000 ppm (2%) was subjected to acute oral rat, acute dermal rat and irritation to mucous membrane rabbit as per OECD protocols under GLP. The results of the studies could be summarized as follows :
Acute oral rat :>4000 mg/kg Acute dermal rat :>2000 mg/kg

Irritation to mucous membrane rabbit non-irritant. From the above data it is clear that the product is very mildly toxic and does not pose a threat to mammals. (Studies conducted by Fredrick Institute of Plant Protection and Toxicology (FIPPAT), an internationally recognized facility for the evaluation of pesticides).

MEDICINE

The seeds contain pongam oil, a bitter, red brown, thick, non-drying, nonedible oil, 27–36% by weight, which is used for tanning leather, soap, as a liniment to treat scabies, herpes, and rheumatism and as an illuminating oil (Burkill, 1966). Also used for lubrication and indigenous medicine. Pongam oil showed inhibitory effects on Bacillus anthracis, Bacillus mycoides, Bacillus pulilus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas mangiferae, Salmonella typhi, Sarcina lutea, Staphylococcus albus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Xanthomonas campestris, but did not inhibit Shigella sp. (Chaurasia and Jain, 1978). The oil has a high content of triglycerides, and its disagreeable taste and odor are due to bitter flavonoid constituents, pongamiin and karanjin.

According to Hartwell (1967–1971), the fruits and sprouts are used in folk remedies for abdominal tumors in India, the seeds for keloid tumors in Sri Lanka, and a powder derived from the plant for tumors in Vietnam. In sanskritic India, seeds were used for skin ailments. Today the oil is used as a liniment for rheumatism. Leaves are active against Micrococcus; their juice is used for colds, coughs, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, gonorrhea, and leprosy. Roots are used for cleaning gums, teeth, and ulcers. Bark is used internally for bleeding piles. Juices from the plant, as well as the oil, are antiseptic. It is said to be an excellent remedy for itch, herpes, and pityriasis versicolor.

Powdered seeds are valued as a febrifuge, tonic and in bronchitis and whooping cough. Flowers are used for diabetes. Bark has been used for beriberi. Juice of the root is used for cleansing foul ulcers and closing fistulous sores. Young shoots have been recommended for rheumatism. Ayurvedic medicine described the root and bark as alexipharmic, anthelmintic, and useful in abdominal enlargement, ascites, biliousness, diseases of the eye, skin, and vagina, itch, piles, splenomegaly, tumors, ulcers, and wounds; the sprouts, considered alexeteric, anthelmintic, apertif, and stomachic, for inflammation, piles and skin diseases; the leaves, anthelmintic, digestive, and laxative, for inflammations, piles and wounds; the flowers for biliousness and diabetes; the fruit and seed for keratitis, piles, urinary discharges, and diseases of the brain, eye, head, and skin, the oil for biliousness, eye ailments, itch, leucoderma, rheumatism, skin diseases, worms, and wounds. Yunani use the ash to strengthen the teeth, the seed, carminative and depurative, for chest complaints, chronic fevers, earache, hydrocele, and lumbago; the oil, styptic and vermifuge, for fever, hepatalgia, leprosy, lumbago, piles, scabies, and ulcers.

Chemistry Reported to contain alkaloids demethoxy-kanugin, gamatay, glabrin, glabrosaponin, kaempferol, kanjone, kanugin, karangin, neoglabrin, pinnatin, pongamol, pongapin, quercitin, saponin, b-sitosterol, and tannin. Air-dry kernels have 19.0% moisture, 27.5% fatty oil, 17.4% protein, 6.6% starch, 7.3% crude fiber, and 2.4% ash.
Fatty acid composition: palmitic, 3.7–7.9%, stearic 2.4–8.9, arachidic 2.2–4.7, behenic 4.2–5.3, lignoceric 1.1–3.5, oleic, 44.5– 71.3, linoleic 10.8–18.3, and eicosenoic 9.5–12.4%.

References

Allen, O.N. and Allen, E.K. 1981. The Leguminosae. The University of Wisconsin Press. 812 p.
Burkill, J.H. 1966. A dictionary of economic products of the Malay peninsula. Art Printing Works, Kuala Lumpur. 2 vols.
Chaurasia, S.C. and Jain, P.C. 1978. Antibacterial activity of essential oils of four medicinal plants. Indian J. Hosp. Pharm.15(6):166–168.
C.S.I.R. (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research). 1948–1976.
The wealth of India. 11 vols. New Delhi.
Hartwell, J.L. 1967–1971. Plants used against cancer. A survey. Lloydia 30–34.
N.A.S. 1980a. Firewood crops. Shrub and tree species for energy production. National Academy
Jarvie, J.K. and Ermayanti (1996 onwards). `Tree Genera of Borneo - Descriptions and Illustrations' URL http://django.harvard.edu/users/jjarvie/Borneo.htm .

DRIED NEEM LEAF POWDER (Just the differing properties)

Antiring worm Antiscabies Antiprotozoal Anthelmintic Scorpion sting Sonakavite ( contains clotting inhibitor ) As poultice on boils CNS depressent Antiviral Hepato protective $7.50 per pound

NEEM BARK POWDER (NOT a complete list)
An excellent toothpowder. Prevents decay and builds strong gums. Can be applied directly on wounds as poultice. $7.50 per pound

Cancer and Neem

The neem tree has been used successfully for centuries to reduce tumors by herbalists throughout Southeast Asia. Researchers in India, Europe and Japan have now found that polysaccharides and limonoids found in neem bark, leaves and seed oil reduced tumors and cancers (Fujiwara, 1982); (Chatterjee, 1961); (Hartwell, 1983) and showed effectiveness against lymphocytic leukemia (Pettit, 1983). In several patents issued in Japan hot water neem bark extracts showed remarkable effectiveness against several types of tumors. (Shimizu et al, 1985) Several types of extract were tested at different doses and compared to the effectiveness of a standard anti-cancer agent. Several of the extracts were equal to or better than the standard anti-cancer agent against solid tumors. When the tests were done using a more purified extract of neem bark, the results were even more impressive against solid tumors. But the extracts tested were still very crude when compared to the extremely purified active compounds typically used in treating tumors. Further studies using truly pure active compounds are expected to produce results at least equal to the control.

Another researcher used an extract of neem leaves to prevent the adhesion of cancer cells to other cells in the body. (Udeinya, 1994) Without the ability to stick to other cells, cancers cannot spread through the body and are more easily destroyed by the body's own immune system or by other treatments.

In general, neem is known for its ability to effect cancers. Injections of around tumors showed remarkable reduction in size in just a few weeks. Skin cancers may be particularly responsive to neem. A number of reports have been made by patients that skin cancers have disappeared after several months of daily application of a neem based cream.
This information comes from www.theoriginalneemcompany.com
I went back later, and could not access this information again. But I copied it all. Elaine

Blood Disorders and Neem

Neem has been a major blood tonic and blood purifier in the systems of medicine found in India and Pakistan. In an analysis of 36 plant drugs attributed with blood purifying properties, neem was found to have the widest range of beneficial effects (Vohora, 1986). It is believed to remove toxins from the blood and promote a healthy circulation (Chattopadhyay, et al, 1992a). Small amounts of neem leaf extracts have been found to protect the liver from damage when toxic agents were used to induce hepatocellular necrosis (Chattopadhyay, et al, 1992b). Neem also can oxidize the blood to promote healing (Etkin, 1981). Blood Poisoning Diabetes Kidney Problems Poor Circulation Blood Disorders and Neem Blood Poisoning Caused by bacterial infections that have infected the blood, blood poisoning is relieved by neem's anti-bacterial compounds (Patel and Travedi, 1962). Either whole neem leaf or teas made from neem leaves will provide the necessary s to the body.

Research article index Effects of Neem on Blood Sugar Levels Neem in a Kenyan Herbal Clinic: Wamirithu Herbal Clinic - Diabetes Blood Poisoning Diabetes Kidney Problems Poor Circulation Recipe for Neem Tea Distilled water should always be used when making tea. Measure one good handful, about one cup of whole leaf, to one quart of water. If using leaf powder, use one ounce or one quarter cup of powder per quart of water.
Bring the water to a boil.
Remove from heat.
Add the whole leaf or powder.
Cover and let it stand overnight or 24 hours.
With the leaf you simply strain the liquid, put into a bottle or jug and drink as needed. When powder is used put the brew into a tall glass jar or bottle and let it stand in the refrigerator until the sediment settles to the bottom. Then draw off or siphon the liquid on top into a jug or storage bottle.

The tea should be kept in the refrigerator for long term storage. If left out a scum forms in the liquid. You can use grapefruit seed extract as a preservative with some successes (10 drops per quart) but refrigeration is still the best method taken from the origionalneemcompany website Diabetes and Neem Diabetes is an incurable, chronic metabolic disorder that develops when the pancreas can no longer produce sufficient insulin.

Blood Poisoning Diabetes Kidney Problems Poor Circulation Blood sugar levels rapidly elevate yet the body is unable to use the energy contained in the sugar leading to weakness and eventually unconsciousness.

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in people ages 25 to 74, damages nerves, kidneys, the heart and blood vessels and may result in the amputation of limbs.

Neem leaf is a traditional herb for treating diabetes (Alam, et al, 1989) and has been scientifically proven effective in treating and preventing diabetes; (Murty, 1978); (Chakrabartty, 1984a); (Chakrabartty, 1984b); (El-Harwary, 1990). Oral doses of neem leaf extracts significantly reduced insulin requirements for non-insulin dependent diabetes. (Pillai, 1981b); (Luscombe, 1974); (Murty, 1978) has also proven effective and has been able to inhibit increases in blood sugar levels by as much as 45% in test animals (Sharma, 1983).

Skin Ulcers and Neem
Skin ulcers should be washed with a and covered with a . For individual ulcers, apply neem leaf extract or damp whole leaves to the skin ulcer and cover with a gauze bandage overnight or until it is healed. Replace the bandage and extract daily. Drink two neem leaf teas daily for three days in severe cases.

Acne and Neem
Neem kills the bacteria that cause acne and reduces the inflammation that makes it so noticeable. Neem-based creams have even improved the appearance of people who have reddened skin from acne that ended years before. To prevent and heal acne, first wash with , then use a neem face pack to soothe and tighten the skin. Finally, apply a neem-based cream to moisturize and condition the skin.

Urinary Tract Infections and Neem Neem's antibiotic and antiviral properties can be delivered to the urinary tract by drinking neem leaf tea made with five (5) neem leaves twice per day for one week.

Chlamydia and Neem
A neem-based cream clears up Chlamydia trichomatous infections in one to three weeks (Garg, et al, undated). Chlamydia is implicated in many cases where women are unable to conceive due to scarring of the fallopian tubes. Neem may be useful in preventing infection through the use of a neem-based cream as a vaginal lubricant. Immediately after intercourse or if the disease has taken hold, use of a douche made with water boiled with 50 neem leaves will act as a bactericide. For stubborn cases, supplement with two cups of neem tea daily for a week to attack the agents from inside.

Candidiasis and Neem and leaf extracts are effective treatments for candidiasis (Garg,et al, undated). A strong neem leaf tea made with 50 neem leaves can be used for douching or a neem-based cream applied internally daily for a week. This will cause contraction of vaginal muscles, reduce inflammation, relieve itching and will eliminate the infection.

AIDS and Neem

By enhancing the cellular immune response most pathogens can be eliminated before they cause the ill feeling associated with disease.

This mechanism could also help in diseases that involve the immune system, like AIDS. Taking neem leaf or bark powder every other day or drinking a mild neem tea will enhance antibody production and the body's cell-mediated immune response, helping to prevent infections.

Neem has immuno-stimulating properties for both the lymphocytic and cell-mediated immune systems. When human white blood cells infected with HIV were cultured with s, the production of viral proteins dropped dramatically. Dr. Upadhyay and Dr. Berre'-Sinousi (one of the scientists who identified the AIDS virus) believe the s block production of viral proteins thereby stopping replication of the virus.

Studies of the effects of neem bark and neem leaf extracts show they significantly reduced the P-24 viral proteins and induced in vitro production of IL-1 interferon (Upadhyay, et al, 1993). The National Institutes of Health, in a preliminary study, reports encouraging results from in vitro tests where neem bark extracts killed the AIDS virus . (Larson, 1993). Another possible effect neem may have on combating the AIDS virus is its apparent ability to enhance the cell-mediated immune response to infection. Using extracts made by soaking neem bark in water, Dr. Van Der Nat (Netherlands) determined that the extract produces a strong immune stimulating reaction. The neem bark extract stimulated lymphocyte function which increased production of MIF, a lymphokine that attaches macrophages and monocytes to infectious agents. (Upadhyay, et al, 1990).

Believed to be the first line of defense against HIV infection, (Beardsley, 1992); (Caldwell, 1994) neem's ability to enhance the cell-mediated immune response may provide protection from vaginal contraction of the disease if neem is used as a vaginal lubricant before intercourse. If even only partially successful in preventing the spread of AIDS, until scientists develop a cure, neem could save countless lives.

In cases where HIV has not advanced to full-blown AIDS some of the patients appear to have the enhanced cell-mediated immune responses (Caldwell, 1994) that neem can help produce. However, once contracted, AIDS may be treated by ingesting neem leaf extracts, whole leaf or by drinking neem tea.

Warts and Neem
Neem absorbs viruses and prevents them from infecting cells. Since warts are caused by viruses, neem is effective in treating them. To treat the wart, cover it with whole neem leaves or soak the gauze portion of a small bandage with neem leaf extract or a neem based cream and place it over the wart. Change the bandage and reapply daily. After a week, check the area to determine the progress of the treatment.

Neem Cream
Creams containing can be used to prevent wrinkles by providing a natural skin protectant and moisturizer to the skin. Antibacterial compoundes in neem protect the skin while immune stimulating compounds help deeper layers of the skin fight any pathogens below the surface. These neem compounds help healthy skin retain its suppleness (Puri, 1993). After washing and drying the skin, rub a few drops of neem based cream on areas that are particularly susceptible to drying and wrinkles.

To supplement the beneficial effects of , apply a face pack made from neem bark. As the face pack dries, the soothing compounds of neem bark are absorbed into the skin. This helps to reduce wrinkles and will make the skin feel smoother and appear younger. It is an astringent mixture that tightens the skin and is particularly useful for hyper-sensitive people.

Poor Circulation
Neem leaf extracts can cause the blood vessels to dilate, (Thompson and Anderson, 1978) allowing for increased circulation to the extremities. Ingesting neem leaf extracts several times a week will enhance poor circulation and oxidize the blood.

Neem leaf extracts reduced cholesterol levels significantly in recent studies. Alcoholic extract of neem leaves reduced serum cholesterol by about 30% beginning two hours after administration and kept the level low for an additional four hours until the test ended. (Chattopadhyay, et al, 1992). Since neem is a safe herb when used in low doses, drinking neem tea for a month to stabilize cholesterol levels may be recommended. For those that would only need small reductions or for after eating an exceptionally fatty meals neem tea as an after meal drink may be a an alternative.

Diaper Rash and Neem
If your baby already has diaper rash, wash the baby's skin with neem shampoo or soap and dry with a clean towel. Then apply a neem-based cream or neem leaf powder to soothe the baby's skin, prevent diaper rash and to keep the baby's skin protected from moisture.

All babies get a red or sore bottom from time to time, even with frequent diaper changes and careful cleaning. Some common reasons for diaper rash include:

Irritation from a new product. Your baby's skin may have come into contact with something that irritated it. Possibilities include disposable wipes, a new brand of diaper, or a new brand of detergent, fabric softener or bleach used in the laundry. If you suspect one of these, change to a brand that hasn't bothered the baby before. Generally, you'll have better results if you use products that have few additives.

Chemicals in new clothes. Wash all new clothing before your baby wears it for the first time.

Sensitive skin. If your baby's skin is sensitive change diapers frequently, washing the area with clear water each time. Allow your baby's bottom to air dry. And use a soothing ointment any time pinkness occurs.

Bacterial or yeast infection. These can cause an irritating skin rash that needs to be treated with prescription creams. Contact your doctor if your baby has a rash that's stubborn and lasts more than a few days.

To help prevent diaper rash, avoid using super-absorbent disposable diapers because they tend to be changed less frequently. If you're using cloth diapers, wash and rinse them thoroughly. Select snap-on plastic pants instead of those with elastic binding for better air circulation.

Jock Itch and Neem
Neem seed oil and leaf extracts have been used for centuries to prevent fungal infections in the tropical regions where neem is found. Using a neem-based powder will dry the area, kill the fungus and reduce the itching. If the skin is reddened, a neem-based lotion can be substituted Conjunctivitis and Neem The inflammation of the eye can be treated with drops of room temperature neem tea prepared from powdered neem leaves. (Puri, 1993)
(Tincture should not be used due to the alcohol used in the extract.)
A few drops of the tea into each eye every three hours for one day should be sufficient. Overnight, a natural cream with should be wiped around the eye and eyelid.

Mononucleosis and Neem
Possibly related to hepatitis, "mono" should be treated with a mild neem tea three times a day for two weeks. The length and severity of the disease should be much improved if the regimen is followed.

Colds and Neem
Caused by a variety of viruses, colds are better prevented than cured. During cold season, drinking a mild neem leaf tea once or twice a week is recommended. If you do catch a cold, the symptoms can be lessened by drinking neem leaf tea three times a day and inhaling steam produced by boiling twenty neem leaves in a quart of water. This will also help prevent secondary bacterial infections of the nasal sinuses.

Influenza and Neem
Like the common cold, influenza or flu, as it's commonly called is caused by viruses, and is spread primarily in inside places where people congregate. Influenza usually comes on suddenly and can last for one day to a week. Usually more severe and longer lasting, the flu can lead to pneumonia if proper care is not taken to promote healing.

Outbreaks usually occur in the winter and early spring. Symptoms include:

Fever and chills Sore throat Cough Muscular pains and aches Fatigue and weakness Nasal congestion Drinking neem tea regularly during the disease will relieve some of the symptoms and speed recovery. Inhaling steam from boiled neem leaves will help the respiratory system and nasal passages fight secondary bacterial infections.

Hepatitis and Neem A dangerous disease, hepatitis can be transmitted through blood or by ingesting contaminated food or water. Studies have indicated that s can block infection by the virus that causes it (Unander, 1992). Prevention is recommended by drinking neem leaf tea after eating shellfish and after swimming in or drinking water potentially contaminated with sewage.

Viral hepatitis is a deadly disease with no effective remedy. Indian tests indicate that as much as 80% of the test cases showed significant improvement when treated with neem. (Wagh, 1988)

Infectious Diseases and Neem Food Poisoning and Neem Salmonella bacteria, the major culprit in food poisoning, has been shown to be killed by s (Patel, 1962, 1965). Although prevention is the best way to avoid food poisoning, once it has been ingested, neem is a viable option for reducing the length and severity of the attack. Oral doses of neem leaf teas will soothe the upset stomach, help the body rid itself of the bacteria and provide relief from many of the miserable symptoms.

Infectious Diseases and Neem Bacterial Preliminary studies in laboratories have shown that there have been significant effects on several bacteria strains (Rao, 1969, 1986); (Chopra, 1952, 1956, 1958); (Sankaram, 1986); (Rojanpo, 1985).

Mahmoodin, one of neem's many medicinal compounds, shows significant antibacterial activity against various gram-positive and gram-negative organisms (Seddiqui, 1992). The bacteria staphylococcus aureus that can cause peritonitis, cystitis and meningitis is killed or rendered harmless by small doses of leaf extract (Schneider, 1986). The bacteria streptococcus pyogenes, cornebacterium and E. coli were affected by s (Thaker and Anjaria, 1986). Another bacteria, salmonella typhosa, that causes typhoid, food poisoning and blood poisoning, is similarly affected in other studies (Patel, 1962); (Chopra, 1958) There has been no conclusive explanation for the actions against these bacteria, but research continues to seek the active compounds and mode of action (Rojanpo, 1985).

Infectious Diseases and Neem Thrush and Neem Drinking neem leaf tea will promote healing and reduce the pain and inflammation. Children under 12 should only gargle with the tea and not swallow. For the redness appearing on the skin around the mouth, a neem-based cream should be applied regularly until the infection has cleared.

One hour after taking aqueous leaf extracts -- or neem tea -- weak excitation and increased activity are seen, while decreased activity and lower muscular tone occur after five hours (Debelmas and Hache, 1976). Nimbidin has a mild suppressive effect on the central nervous system (Pillai and Santhakumari, 1984b). Neem leaf extracts have shown to produce lower activity, respiratory rate and muscle tone passivity as well as dose-dependent hypothermia (Gandhi, 1988); (Singh, 1986). The active compounds may be limonoids, because most seem to be able to pass the blood-brain barrier.

Epilepsy Hives Neem Spray www.theorgionalneemcompany.com Burns and Neem Neem has been used for centuries to treat problems of the skin and to prevent infection (Singh, et al, 1979). Neem reduces the pain, kills bacteria that can cause infection, stimulates the local immune system and promotes rapid healing with reduced scarring.

Burns are treated very effectively with a neem-based cream spread lightly on the affected area. Most minor burns can be treated successfully at home by following these steps:

Cool the burn. Hold the burned area under cold running water for 15 minutes. If impractical immerse it in cold water or cover with cold compresses. Cooling the burn reduces swelling by carrying heat away from your skin. Don't use ice to cool a burn because it can further damage your skin. Don't use butter. Using butter on burned skin can further damage your skin and increase your risk of infection. Moisturize. Once a burn is completely cooled, apply a lotion or cream. It will help keep the burned area from drying out and may make the burn more comfortable as it heals. Continue to apply the cream until the burn has healed completely.

Bandage the burn. Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage. Wrap the bandage loosely to avoid putting pressure on burned skin. Bandaging helps keep air off the area and reduces pain. Handle blisters with care.

Fluid-filled blisters help protect against infection, so don't break them. If they do break, wash the area with mild soap and water and then apply an antibiotic ointrnent and gauze bandage. Use over-the-counter pain relievers. If necessary, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve the pain of minor burns.

Without further treatment, most minor burns will usually heal in about one to two weeks. But make sure you monitor the burn for signs of infection.

Sunburns may also be treated with neem-based creams.

Earaches: Heat one clove of garlic in one teaspoon of sesame oil.
Let cool to just above body temperature.
Add two drops of campho oil and five drops of neem leaf extract or , then drip into each ear.
Use a bit of cotton in each ear to remove excess and to prevent it from running out.
Neem acts to relieve the localized pain receptors, reduce inflammation and kill bacteria that can cause earaches.

Chagas Disease and Neem
Called the "American sleeping sickness", s prevent the deadly chagas disease (Beard, 1989) by preventing the parasite that causes it from surviving in its host, the biting "kissing bug". A single dose of azadirachtin given to the "kissing bug" provided permanent resistance to the parasite T.cruzi, thereby preventing transmission to humans (Gonzales and Garcia, 1992). By inoculating the "kissing bug" against infection by the parasite instead of simply poisoning the host, a buildup of resistance is reduced. Neem leaf or seed extracts sprayed throughout the home where the kissing bug lives eliminate the parasite and prevents the kissing bug from laying eggs. Drinking neem teas may also prevent infection by transferring to the bug as they take blood.

Neem Outdoor Spray
Neem provides an answer to many incurable diseases. Traditionally Neem products have been used against heat-rash, boils, wounds, jaundice, leprosy, skin disorders, stomach ulcers, chicken pox, etc.

Modern research also confirms Neem's curative powers in case of many diseases and provides indications that Neem might in future be used much more widely.

Properties of Neem

Since ancient times, neem has been associated with healing in the sub-continent of India. A large number of medicinals, cosmetics, toiletries and pharmaceuticals are now based on neem derivatives because of it's unique properties.

Bark: Neem bark is cool, bitter, astringent, acrid and refrigerant. It is useful in tiredness, cough, fever, loss of appetite, worm infestation. It heals the wounds and is also used in vomiting, skin diseases and excessive thirst.

Leaves: According to Ayurveda, Neem leaves help in the treatment of vatik disorders (neuro muscular pains). Neem leaves are also reported to remove toxins, purify blood and prevent damage caused by free radical in the body by neutralising them. Neem leaves are reported to be beneficial in eye disorders and insect bite poisons. It treats Vatik Disorders ( neuroand muscular pains )

Fruits: Neem fruits are bitter, purgative, antihemorrhodial and anthelmintic in nature.

Flowers: Neem flowers are used in vitiated conditions of pitta ( balancing of the body heat ) and kapha ( cough formation). They are astringent, anthelmintic and non-toxic.

Seeds: Neem seeds are also described as anthelminitic, antileprotic, antipoisonous and bitter in taste.

Oil: derived from crushing the seeds is antidermatonic, a powerful anthelmintic and is bitter in taste. It has a wide spectrum of action and is highly medicinal in nature.

Mixture: Five parts of Neem tree ie. Bark, Root, Fruit, Flower and Leaves together are used in diseases of blood. It is also used in vitiated conditions of excess heat, itching, wound, burning sensation in body and skin diseases.

Traditional use of Neem in India

There are several instances of Indian traditional custom sanctifying and encouraging usage of Neem. For instance Neem leaves have been used by holymen to avert illuck and diseases. Neem leaves are kept in the mouth signifying grief, on returning from funerals. A concoction made of Neem leaves, flowers, jaggery and raw mango is drunk on a new year's day for safegaurding health. (Gahukar 1995)

In the times when the Vedas were composed the Neem was called the Sarva Roga Nivarini, (one that could cure all ailments and ills.) and continued to be regarded for several centuries.

However, with the advent of the Portugese, British and French colonists in the Indian subcontinent a few hundred years ago, the traditional practices like using Neem leaves to protect crops and stored grains came to be regarded as backward practices and created a stigma, which led to the abandoning of these ecologically sound practice in favour of modern chemical products imported from the west. Centuries of knowledge and wisdom accumulated in the minds of people based on the trials and errors of generations gone by were threatened, slowly but surely.

Rational traditional knowledge However the values of their forefathers were too deeply ingrained to be totally abondoned, and they lingered in the minds of the masses. Neem continued to provide toothbrush, soap, sacrament, and spiritual food to millions of Indians.

The continued usage of Neem represented not a condition of primitiveness but was a fine example of rational traditional knowledge prevailing over misguided modern notions. It represented the truimph of a rationale once understood, expounded through custom, and translated into practice for the largest common good.

In the past, the combination of medicinal and agricultural values of neem made it a favoured companion of Indians journeying to distant lands in search of their fortunes and this contributed to its widespread distribution and propogation across continents. To Indians in foreign lands the Neem tree brought solace and helped them bridge the gap with their homeland. It symbolized a continuity of tradition and fulfilled the need to live in intimate harmony with nature. Thus the Neem tree found itself at home in Mauritius, Fiji, Australia, East and Sub-Sahelian Africa, South East Asia, many countries in central and south America and the Carribbean. With this journey across oceans, the saga of Neem spread to the far corners of the globe. (Tewari 1992)

Pioneering work in Neem research During the course of the freedom movement in India, led by Mahatma Gandhi, there was an upsurge of the 'Swadeshi' or nationalistic sentiment. This led to a move to encourage 'Swadeshi' science. Neem research in India was a part of this movement. Pioneering work on the possible commercial use of and cake was done by the Indian Institute of science in Bangalore during the 1920s. Until 1933, neem cake was used in the sugar cane fields as a fertilizer and to keep termites at bay. At this point synthetic pesticides and remedies appeared in the market and overshadowed the pioneering work of indigenious science.

Mahatma Gandhi, however kept the tradition of Neem alive. He was known to be a firm believer in the goodness of Neem. Dr Ekaid, in reply to some queries about neem leaves by Gandhi, wrote. "We have made experiments upon neem leaves in our laboratory which revealed that its leaves contain more nutritious elements than any other similar vegetation which had been subjected to chemical analysis earlier". The prayer meetings at the Sabarmati Ashram were conducted under a Neem tree by the Mahatma Gandhi and a Neem leaf chutney was a part of his everyday diet. (Dr. Shiva 1993)