Neem is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that produce small oval shaped fruits of about an inch in length. The neem tree can reach up to 15-20 meters in height.
Neem is grown for its medicinal value as well for its seed which is used to make organic insecticide and pest repellent
Neem is used to treat various skin conditions and dental issues.
- Origin: India
- Common names: Neem, Aryaveppu, Veppu
- Scientific name: Azadirachta indica
- Botanical family: Meliaceae
- Edibility Uses: 2/10
- Medicinal uses: 7/10
- Other uses: 8/10
Growing Neem Plants
Neem can grow in acidic as well as alkaline soils. Once established, neem tree can survive with very little water, making it suitable for arid regions.
Neem requires full sunlight for optimal growth. When planting, leave a distance of 4-6 meters between trees. Pruning helps in maintaining a healthy canopy and branching. Otherwise, neem requires almost no maintenance.
Neem can be also be grown in containers.
Need seed
Neem fruits are about an inch in size, green when unripe and turn yellow when ripe. The fruit's taste is bitter and is really edible.
However, the seeds inside the fruit are used for extracting neem oil, which has various medicinal and agricultural applications.
Neem Uses
- Neem leaves, bark, and seeds have numerous health benefits and medicinal uses. Neem possess anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties.
- Neem is sometimes referred as a ‘village pharmacy’ in India due to its wide range of medical uses.
- Neem twigs are used as toothbrushes, and neem leaf extract is used in toothpaste.
- Neem is an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Need leaves, seeds and its oils all have insect repellent properties.