Neem

At a Glance

Common name

Neem

Scientific name

Azadirachta indica

Family

Meliaceae

Region

South Asia

Plant part

Leaves, Bark

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A tropical evergreen tree with pinnate compound glossy deep-green serrated leaflets and small sprays of tiny white fragrant flowers; the leaves and bark are used.

Also known as: Margosa, Indian Lilac, Nimba

Historical Background

Neem has been an Ayurvedic 'village pharmacy' for millennia, its bitter leaves and bark used for skin, immune, fever, and cleansing traditions. Revered across South Asia, it is rarely a casual sip but features in practitioner-guided Ayurvedic teas and bitter tonics.

Earliest recorded uses: Ayurvedic traditions for millennia; a bitter 'village pharmacy' tree for skin, immune, and fever traditions.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Bitter, strong, sulfur-like, herbaceous

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Neem has a tradition as a bitter antimicrobial, skin, immune, and blood-sugar herb; preclinical work shows broad antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and modest glucose-modulating activity. Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for infection, skin disease, diabetes, malaria, or any disease, and its strong, bitter compounds warrant short, cautious use.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.