Neem

Identity

Common Name

Neem

Scientific Name

Azadirachta indica

Botanical Family

Meliaceae

Native Region

South Asia

Cultivation Regions

South Asia, tropics

Plant Parts Used

Leaves, Bark

Synonyms

Margosa, Indian Lilac, Nimba

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

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.

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 Information

Research Summary

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 reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources