Preparing and Using Neem
Neem has been prepared the same way since ancient times, and only recently are neem products that are mass produced becoming available. In most countries, these products are still mostly found on the internet and in health food and specialty shops. But as the masses discover neem and it's wonderful healing properties, no doubt widespread availability will ensue.
Traditional Preparation Vs. Manufactured Products- Before manufactured products started becoming available, neem had to be prepared by hand. The use of a pestle and mortar to grind the leafs into a powder or to extract the oil from the seeds was the traditional method. Today, there are a wide variety of neem based products available to just about anyone. Instead of soaking in a bathtub full of neem leafs, extracts and bath products can be used to get the same medicinal benefits. Neem capsules are also available, though some believe that drinking a traditional neem tea is more effective than ingesting neem in capsule form.
Neem For The Skin- Today, there are several neem products available for skin treatments and daily skin care. Neem in soap form is a great way to get the benefits of neem without having to change your daily habits much. Simply replace your regular soap bar with a neem based soap. The same with your hair and oral care products- neem shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste and mouthwash are now available. Neem based lotions, creams, gels, facial masques and other products can also be found- on the internet if not locally.
Neem Taken Internally- Ingesting neem can be beneficial for a number of ailments. Neem has many therapeutic qualities and effects that make it worth adding to your daily supplementation. For example, neem has anti-inflammatory qualities that make it beneficial for arthritis sufferers. It is also good for the immune system, digestive disorders, circulatory disorders, and a multitude of other common problems.
Neem As A Pesticide- Neem seed oil eliminates garden variety pests quite effectively, yet is it environmentally safe. It works as an "anti-feedant", meaning insects that eat vegetation refuse to eat anything covered with it. The neem also helps reduce the pest population by reducing the insects ability to reproduce. As effective as neem is on bad insects, it will not harm beneficial insects like ladybugs, worms and grubs. Actually, research has shown that worms and grubs are actually attracted to and thrive in neem drenched soil.
As scientific research verifies the many benefits and uses of the neem tree, no doubt many more products will become available. Scientists are only just beginning to delve into these properties, and as they do they are finding that neem is indeed an exceptional herb.
Article Source: Daily Digest Magazine
About the Author
Manny Leger is your average health nut, and loves showing others how to live better lives through diet and exercise. He also offers neem based products at his family owned website, NeemKing.org.