Neem

🔬Scientific Name: Azadirachta indica

🌳Type:  Evergreen tree (medium to large, can reach 15–30 m in ideal conditions)

☀️Climatic Conditions: Tropical to subtropical — prefers full sun, warm temperatures (approx. 20–35°C), tolerates drought once established, grows well with annual rainfall from moderate to high; dislikes waterlogged soil.

💊Medicinal Value: Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine for its antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antiparasitic properties. Neem leaves, bark, oil and seeds are used for skin problems (acne, eczema), wound care, oral hygiene (toothpaste/chewing sticks), and to support general topical antisepsis. (Note: always consult a healthcare professional before medicinal use.)

🛠️Uses:

• Neem oil and extracts used as natural insecticide/biopesticide (azadirachtin is an active compound).

• Leaves and twigs used as organic mulch and natural pesticide in gardens.

• Timber for light construction and fuelwood.

• Cosmetics & soaps (skin-care products, shampoos).

• Dental care — traditional chewing sticks and modern toothpastes.

• Environmental — shade tree, soil improvement, and roadside planting.

✨Interesting Facts:

• Neem is known as the “Village Pharmacy” in India because almost every part of the tree has useful applications.

• The compound azadirachtin from neem seed is widely used in eco-friendly pest control.

• Neem leaves were traditionally hung in doorways to repel mosquitoes and other pests.

• Many communities use neem for sustainable, low-cost healthcare and farming solutions.

Care Tips:

• Plant in well-draining soil (sandy loam to loamy is ideal). Avoid waterlogged sites.

• Full sun is best; seedlings can tolerate partial shade but grow faster in direct sunlight.

• Water regularly while young; once established, neem is drought-tolerant — water deeply but infrequently.

• Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds; avoid piling mulch against the trunk.

• Prune lightly to shape and remove dead branches—best done in dry season.

• Propagate from fresh seeds (germinate quickly) or semi-hardwood cuttings; protect young saplings from grazing animals.

• Neem is hardy and low-maintenance — perfect for school gardens and agroforestry projects.

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