MEDICINAL:
This plant, known as “the village pharmacy” in India, has been used for at least 4000 years for its medicinal qualities.All parts of the plant are used. Neem has been used to treat a wide range of ailments, including wounds, burns, sprains, bruises, earache, headache, fever, sore throat, food poisoning, shingles, colds, flu, hepatitis, mononucleosis, fungal infections, yeast infections, sexually transmitted diseases, acne, skin diseases, heart diseases, blood disorders, kidney problems, digestive problems, ulcers, periodontal diseases, nerve disorders, malaria, fatigue, and a host of others. It is being closely studied for use in battling AIDS, cancer, diabetes, allergies, and as birth control for both men and women. Neem should not be used for more than two weeks at a time. For chronic ailments, it should be used on a schedule of two weeks on, one week off, or as directed under the guidance of a health practitioner. It is anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-septic, and strengthens the body’s overall immune reponses. It should not be used by internally by pregnant women.
GROWING:
Neem is a tropical evergreen, native to India and Burma, and growing in southeast Asia and western Africa. It can grow to reach 50 feet tall in a desirable climate, and tolerates drought and poor soils. It can live up to 200 years. Neem bears fruit at 3 to 5 years of age. It cannot take freezing temperatures, so those in northern climates can grow it as a houseplant. Summer it outdoors, and place near a bright or sunny window in the winter. It needs organic fertilizers, well drained soil, and as large a pot as possible. Ten gallon sized pots are recommended as the minimum. Be careful not to over water.
