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The neem tree is a massive flowering shade tree that belongs to the mahogany family. It is a hardy, rapidly growing tree that can reach as high as 100 feet tall and equally as wide. Neem is known for a number of medicinal benefits and uses. Neem leaves contain more than 100 active ingredients and can be ground into a powder or cured into a tea.
The neem leaf is a natural insecticide. Place the neem leaf in beds, books, closets and cabinets to keep out insects. Lay neem leaves around the garden to protect crops from insects.
Neem leaf ground into powder can treat diabetes. The leaf inhibits blood sugar level increases up to 45 percent. The extract of the neem leaf increases the oxidation of the red blood cells. It also eliminates gout and cures pneumonia in its tea form.
Medical research in the American Journal of Therapeutics indicates that the neem leaf and its extracts repel malaria-carrying mosquitoes for up to 12 hours. It is commonly used in tropical African countries and India as a malaria preventative measure.
The antihistamine properties of neem leaf dilate blood vessels and reduce blood pressure levels.
The extracts of the neem leaf have antibacterial properties that reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis symptoms. These properties also aid in alleviating rheumatism.
The neem leaf reduces gastric secretions and concentrated hydrochloric acids in the stomach, helping to eliminate heartburn, indigestion, ulcers and gastritis. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory components also help reduce stomach discomfort.
Neem leaf extract has anti-anxiety and stress reducing effects. The many benefits of neem leaf generate when taken in small doses, which may make it a safe alternative to some drugs.
Writing professionally since 2004, Charmayne Smith focuses on corporate materials such as training manuals, business plans, grant applications and technical manuals. Smith's articles have appeared in the "Houston Chronicle" and on various websites, drawing on her extensive experience in corporate management and property/casualty insurance.
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