Properties of a Neem Plant

The neem tree, with more than 135 active medicinal properties, has long been used in its native India to cure many ailments. All parts of the neem tree are edible and medicinal and have been used for centuries. Neem does have some anti-fertility properties for both men and women, so avoid neem if you are trying to conceive.

Antioxidant

• Neem leaves, bark and oil are all high in antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds in plants that reverse and prevent cell damage. Free radicals come from natural sources, such as foods and oxygen, and from unnatural sources, such as chemicals in the air and the water that we use and in the foods that we eat. According to a study conducted by Brunswick Laboratories, neem bark, leaves and oil are four to five times higher in antioxidants than blueberries and cranberries.

Antifungal

• Neem leaf extract has antifungal properties against five different fungal infections, including candida, according to an article by D.P. Agrawal, "Medicinal Properties of Neem: New Findings." Compounds in neem seed oil also have strong fungal-fighting properties. Use neem seed oil and neem leaf extract to treat athlete's foot, thrush, yeast infections and ringworm. Make neem leaf tea from fresh or dried neem leaves or rub neem oil onto the affected areas.

Antibacterial

• Oil derived from neem leaves, bark and seeds has a wide range of antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, according to Agrawal. Neem oil is particularly effective for mouth and gum infections. Swish with a mild solution of neem oil and water for optimal oral health. Use neem oil topically on wounds to prevent infection during healing. And try taking a neem extract supplement or drinking neem tea to prevent bacterial infections.

Antiviral

• The antiviral properties of neem are found in the seed oil, neem leaves and leaf oil. Neem can also help prevent dengue fever, a viral infection that is transported by mosquitoes in some tropical regions. If you have access to a neem tree, nibbling 10 to 20 of the bitter leaves in the morning can help prevent viral infections. Neem extracts are also available as supplements and neem oil is widely available in health food stores.

Spermicidal

• Neem oil has spermicidal properties. Using a cotton pad soaked in neem oil for 15 minutes before intercourse may prevent pregnancy. There is speculation that for women, eating fresh neem leaves daily may prevent contraception and for men, consuming fresh neem leaves for a month may cause reversible infertility. However, further research is required, and neem should not be relied upon for birth control or disease prevention.