What is neem?

Neem or the neem tree, also known as the "miracle tree" or "medicinal plant of the century", is a tree that is native to the tropical regions of Asia, particularly India. It belongs to the Meliaceae family and is scientifically known as Azadirachta indica A. Juss.

The neem tree has been known for centuries for its numerous health benefits. Almost all parts of the tree, including the leaves, bark, seeds, flowers and fruit, have medicinal properties and are used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Neem is rich in bioactive compounds such as nimbin, nimbidin and azadirachtin, which have antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. More than 100 different active ingredients have already been identified. Most of these substances are triterpenoids and belong to the limonoid group.

History and origin of neem

The history of the use of neem goes back thousands of years. Ancient Indian texts such as Ayurveda and Atharvaveda already mention the neem tree as a versatile medicinal plant. In Indian culture, neem is regarded as the "village pharmacy" and is used for numerous health complaints, including skin problems, digestive disorders and infections. Neem promotes the healing process and relieves itching. Its use has a harmonising effect on the microorganism flora and strengthens the natural defence system. In this way, the biotic factors that surround us are kept in balance and the entire organism is kept healthy.

The origin of the tree lies in the dry regions of India, where it thrives due to its ability to adapt to extreme climatic conditions. Today, neem is cultivated in most tropical countries and, due to its impressive properties, is also used in cosmetics, in the home, in the garden for plant care, in agriculture as a natural means of protecting plants and as a fertiliser, as well as in animal care.

Use of neem

Neem in medicine

Neem, also known as "Niem", "Nim" or "Nimba", is a plant that plays an important role in traditional Indian medicine. The various parts of the neem plant such as leaves, bark, seeds and oil are used for their many health benefits. They are used to treat skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis and to promote wound healing. Neem is also considered anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and is said to strengthen the immune system. Neem is also traditionally used to treat digestive problems, diabetes and to support general health.

Dental care with neem

The pinnate leaf stalks are traditionally and widely used for dental care. This involves chewing on several fresh stems until the neem substances are released and unfold their effect in the mouth. They prevent tooth decay and inhibit inflammations such as periodontitis. Today there are various toothpastes, mouthwashes with neem und sogar  dental floss und toothpicks soaked in neem. Neem tree bark is primarily used here, either as a fine powder or in the form of extracts. Neem is a natural alternative to fluoride toothpastes as it has the same anti-caries properties.

Hair care with neem

Neem offers numerous benefits for hair care. It can help reduce dandruff and scalp irritation, promote hair growth and improve hair texture. The antimicrobial properties of neem are also said to help prevent hair infections and hair loss. Neem is also used as a remedy against head lice and to combat house dust mites.
Neem oil is often used in various hair care products, wie shampoos, conditioners, tinctures and hair oils.

Overall, neem offers a natural and effective solution for improving health and hair care.

Skin care with neem

Neem has also been used in skin care for centuries. In Ayurvedic medicine it is described and praised for treating skin problems such as acne, eczema and psoriasis, as well as for promoting wound healing. The use of cold-pressed pure neem oil and fresh extracts from the leaves is recommended.  

In India, soaps are traditionally made from neem oil. Neem oil soaps are still widely used today, especially in rural regions. The neem oil gives the soaps moisturising and disinfecting properties. They help with various skin irritations, itching and dry skin.



Skin creams, hand creams, face creams, neem balms and skin lotions are also very popular cosmetic products that contain neem oil or extracts from the leaves. These products are particularly recommended for dry and irritated skin. They are absorbed quickly and deeply, are pleasantly moisturising and stabilise the skin's regenerative functions and natural acid mantle.  

All cosmetics with neem restore refreshing moisture and elasticity to the skin and strengthen its resistance.

Other neem cosmetics for the skin are skin and massage oils. These also stabilise the regenerative skin functions and restore the skin's refreshing moisture and elasticity.

Facial tonics sind zum Reinigen der Haut konzipiert. They deeply cleanse impurities that can trigger acne or other inflammations. They also disinfect the top layer of skin and remove old skin flakes. Facial tonics with neem are also ideal for removing make-up and other superficially applied cosmetics.

Neem as a natural means of protecting plants

Neem is also used as a natural means of protecting plants. Neem oil, which is extracted from the seeds, contains compounds that can be used to ward off and prevent various plant diseases and harmful insects and mites. The mechanism of action is completely different from that of conventional insecticides and fungicides. It is used to repel various plant-damaging organisms such as aphids, mildew, whiteflies and slugs without leaving toxic residues in nature and on plants. Neem oil is often used in agriculture, horticulture and organic plant care, as it is an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides.

Neem press cake, which is a by-product of the extraction of cold-pressed neem oil is used as an organic compound fertiliser in gardening and agriculture. Neem press cake contains all the minerals that plants need for their growth and development, whereby the release of the minerals is slow and continuous, resulting in balanced nutrition for the plants. In addition to its fertilising properties, Neem press cake also has an effect on soil-borne pests such as nematodes, weevil larvae, grubs and fungus gnat larvae thanks to its valuable Neem ingredients. These avoid soil and ground that has been treated with Neem press cake.

Neem as a natural animal care product

The use of neem is also becoming increasingly popular in  animal care. Neem shampoo and neem sprays are most widely used to prevent and repel parasites that attach themselves to the fur or skin of pets.

Normally, pets such as dogs, horses, chickens or sheep are treated with neem. A major advantage of using neem is that it is completely non-toxic and harmless for all these pets.  

The neem oil contained in the products also has excellent caring properties for the fur and skin of the animals and leaves a smooth shine.

Neem products for home care

Due to its disinfectant and repellent properties against unwanted animals such as house dust mites, moths and flies, neem is increasingly being used in home care products. Neem products are a real boon for allergic people in particular.

In the case of house dust mites, the treatment of mattresses and textiles results in a significant reduction, which leads to a decrease in allergic reactions.

In the case of cleaning products, neem has the advantage that cleaned surfaces are avoided by various unwanted colonisers.

This versatile plant offers both health and ecological benefits and is an important component of traditional medicine and natural plant protection. Neem decomposes completely without residue within a short time and leaves no dangerous or toxic decomposition products. There are no known negative effects on humans or their pets.

Applications and benefits of neem

Neem offers both health and ecological benefits and is an important component of traditional medicine, natural plant protection, animal care and body care in the form of skin and hair care. Neem decomposes completely without residue within a short time and leaves no dangerous or toxic decomposition products. There are no known negative effects on humans or their pets.

Ecological benefits of neem

The neem tree is widespread in the tropics and provides naturally renewable raw materials that can be harvested and utilised. Due to their rapid growth, neem trees also bind large amounts of CO2 and thus help to maintain the ecological balance.

The neem tree is an excellent pioneer tree and can be cultivated on degenerated areas, such as deserts or regions destroyed by human activity. Where the neem tree grows, it is a favourite shade tree, as its green leaves grow densely even during prolonged dry periods. These dense leaflets are constantly renewed and contribute to soil regeneration after they naturally fall off.

Health benefits of neem

Neem has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which give it an important role in supporting general health. According to Ayurveda teachings, it can help boost immunity, regulate blood sugar levels, improve digestion and promote skin health. Neem is also traditionally used in the treatment of various skin conditions such as acne, eczema and psoriasis. Neem promotes healing processes and relieves itching. Its use has a harmonising effect on the microorganism flora and strengthens the natural defence system.

Available neem products and raw materials for human use

Neem is a versatile plant whose raw materials can be used to make a wide variety of products that can have a positive effect on health and well-being. Here are some of the available neem products that you can use:

Neem oil

Neem oil is extracted from the seeds of the neem tree and is known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and insect repellent properties. It is often used in skincare to help with acne, eczema and itchy skin.

Neem soap

Neem soap, which contains neem oil, can also be used to improve skin health and cleansing. Neem soaps have moisturising and disinfecting properties and help with various skin irritations as well as itchy and dry skin.

Neem capsules and food supplements

Neem capsules are food supplements made from the leaves, seeds and bark of the neem tree. They contain valuable ingredients such as flavonoids, terpenes and antioxidants, which can have a positive effect on the immune system, blood sugar levels and general health. These products are traditionally used to strengthen the immune system, aid digestion and promote general wellbeing.

It is well known that Mahatma Ghandi took neem seeds and leaves in the form of tea infusions for decades to boost his immune system and aid digestion.

Quality and extraction of neem raw materials

It is important to choose high quality and certified neem products from trustworthy manufacturers to reap the full benefits of the neem plant. Like any natural raw material, it must be harvested at the ideal time and carefully processed to preserve all the valuable ingredients. During this process, it is important to obtain pure plant material that is not contaminated and that is gently dried immediately after harvesting. The same applies to storage and further processing.

Contaminated and poorly dried neem material only contains a low concentration of valuable ingredients and cannot be processed into valuable neem products.

Conclusion on Neem (Niem)

Summary of the benefits of neem:

Neem is a versatile plant with numerous health and environmental benefits. It is often used in traditional medicine and is also used in various products such as skin care products, shampoos and pesticides.

Here are some of the key benefits of neem:

• Natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties: Neem contains compounds that are effective against bacteria and fungi and can therefore be used in the treatment of skin conditions such as acne, eczema and fungal infections.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, neem can assist in the treatment of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatism and arthritis.
• Strengthening the immune system
• Improving skin health: Neem products are often used in skin care due to their cleansing, soothing and moisturising properties.
• Natural defence and repellent against insect pests: Neem oil is often used in agriculture and horticulture to repel pests and protect plants from disease.
• Environmentally friendly: Neem is a natural alternative to chemical pesticides such as insecticides and fungicides and degrades without leaving any residue. This means it leaves no dangerous residues in the soil or the environment.
• Non-toxic: Neem is non-toxic to humans and their pets.