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| Neem tree stands as a sentinel in our neighborhood |
Neem trees are growing all over in Punjab. They simply look majestic
in their green cover. Neem has been an acclaimed medicinal remedy for ages.
Before the advent of modern medicines, neem leaves in various forms were used
effectively for curing many ailments. Its holistic properties are strongly
recommended by Ayurveda for treating skin, hair and fungal disorders. Neem
leaves, neem oil, neem paste have multiple uses.
Compounds found in neem leaves
have anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is a popular germicide and neem soap and
neem toothpaste is the preferred choice of many.
I vividly remember the embarrassment and extreme shyness, I
passed through as a teenager, long time back when my flawless face got sudden
invasion of pimples. I used to hide myself inside. I missed college. Sometimes
to cover the unsightly pimples I would apply Band-Aid. In short, I was utterly
dismayed and suffered intensely until dear mother’s home made paste of neem
leaves came to my rescue. Its regular application cleared my skin within days
and restored my confidence.
Neem’s major contribution lies in eliminating skin diseases:
Neem paste applied on cold sores, boils, pigmentation marks and simple wounds
is proven effective. Warm water boiled
in neem leaves is squeezed via soaked cotton puffs slowly and gently on
affected areas to treat minor skin infections, abrasions, bumps, hurts and
bruises. Neem’s powerful anti-inflammatory properties reduce inflammation and
help in the healing process.
It is considered as
the most effective cure for acne, pimples and for cleansing skin pores. My
successful personal experience of the timely use of neem paste for quick relief
is the case in point.
A special creation by
the name of ‘Garnier pure active Neem face wash’ manufactured by the company, which is into
hair coloring and skin care products is gathering a lot of positive support in
the market. It combines maximum benefit with ease of use. It is a sort of
blessing for young girls busy in settling in their careers and professionals
with hectic life styles. With zero extra effort, one can reap the benefits of
this holistic product for a smooth, healthy, blemish free skin. Young boys too,
who generally suffer from the onslaught of acne during puberty, can get the
desired relief early on. In fact, everyone who is serious about skin care can
use it to great advantage.
This apart, Neem oil
is very effective for mild massage in pains and aches of arthritis and osteo-arthritis. Its potent agents reduce swelling and improve blood circulation.
Its usage for hair
health is recognized widely. Its oil used for scalp massage, an hour before
shampooing does wonders for eliminating dandruff and hair fall. For dryness and
minor irritations of hair, water boiled with neem leaves proves efficacious as the
last rinse. The act takes away the residues of chemicals and gives shine and
luster to the hair.
Luckily, I had found another use for it, which
so many of my searches failed to redress. Our house remains locked for a couple of
months in summer. On my return, the sight of excreta of lizards scattered
around used to be revolting. At somebody’s suggestion, now, I throw green neem twigs
on the kitchen counters, kitchen cabinets and at other strategic points and am
surprised to find the problem has disappeared finally.
Neem trees are an asset to the environment as well. They
purify the air and attract hordes of birds to its cool and congenial spread in
summers. Good to walk near their presence in the mornings for oxygen suffused
air.
Neem’s wondrous home remedies are finally receiving the recognition,
which is overdue.
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