Uses of Neem Powder

Neem powder is a dried and ground extract made from parts of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica). This tree is a member of the mahogany family that is native to and extremely common in India and Pakistan. It has been introduced in many other climates around the world, including the Caribbean and the Middle East. Neem is either deciduous or evergreen, depending on its location, and is renowned for its many medicinal uses.

Flea and Insect Control

• Powdered neem leaves are dusted onto animals as a flea control product. This takes advantage of the natural insecticides in the neem tree. The same quality makes it an effective insect repellent when mixed into skin lotion.

Fungicide

• Neem powder is effective against a number of fungi, including those that cause athlete's foot, ringworm, and intestinal problems, as well as several yeast-like fungi, according to the 1992 book, "Neem: A Tree for Solving Global Problems," which is a report by a panel of the Board on Science and Technology for the International Development National Research Council.

Antibiotic Effects

• This same report indicates that neem oil has been shown in trials to have a suppressive effect against certain strains of staphylococcus and salmonella bacteria. It does not, however, affect many other common bacteria such as E. coli or pneumonia. It is unclear whether neem powder has the same beneficial effect.

Anti-viral Effects

• It is widely believed, especially in India, that neem has antiviral properties. Preliminary scientific studies have shown some antiviral properties, including the inhibition of Hepatitis-B, says the International Development National Research Council's report.

Pain Relief

• Clinical trials, says the report, have shown that neem extracts are effective analgesics, which reduce pain, antipyretics, which reduce fever, and anti-inflammatories, which reduce inflammation. Some of the anti-inflammatory compounds have been patented as medicines.