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Introduction  Common Name  Neem tree  History of Neem  Chemical Compounds in Neem  Medicinal use of Neem  Modern Research  Neem Extracts and Oils  Neem Honey  Uses of Neem  Neem purify air  Neem leaf tea  Economy  Neem in Hindu Religion  Neem patent case  Neem Africa’s green gold  Neem checks Climate Change and Global Warming  Neem checks desert and enrich environment  Neem undiscovered cure for cancer  Story of JustNeem business  The first de novo sequencing of neem  Neem tree under attack from new pest   Introduction   Neem (नीम) is a native tree of India, found in every parts in India  especially in  semi-arid conditions. The Neem Tree is an incredible plant that has been declared the "Tree of the 21st century" by the United Nations. In India, it is variously known as "Divine Tree", "Life giving tree", "Natures Drugstore", "Village Pharmacy" and "Panacea for all diseases". It is one of the major components in Ayurvedic medicine, which has been practiced in India since many centuries. The neem is an ancient Indian cure-all due to its antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antihistamine and antiseptic properties. The neem leaves, flowers, seeds, roots, bark and fruits are utilized to treat inflammation, infections, skin diseases and  for dental care.      In India's ancient Ayurvedic Medical texts it is explained that every part of the Neem tree has health promoting benefits. What is clear from the above information is that the general population of India for, over 5000 years, has used Neem safely and effectively. In fact the people of India call the Neem Tree "The Village Pharmacy". It is also called Holy Tree (Azadirachta indica.). In ancient times neem was the most celebrated medicinal plant of India and found mention in a number of Puranic texts like the Atharava Veda, Upanivahod, Amarkosha and Ghrysutra. They all dealt with the outstanding qualities of the neem tree as a source of medicine and as a natural pesticide.    Today, neem is once again steadily becoming an agro-scientific celebrity. Neem tree believed to cure 40 diseases has hit headlines in homeopathy journals. It has figured as the priority in seminars and serious agricultural workshops all over the world. Modern western medicine is finally discovering what the ancient Indians have known for thousands of years: that the neem tree has superb pharmaceutical and pesticide controlling qualities. Its effectiveness, availability and safety have made agro-scientists promote cultivation of neem forests. The azadirachton compound in neem has been recognized as an effective insecticide that is biologically selective, not harming the useful pest-predators but keeping almost 250 harmful ones at bay.  Scientists recommend coating urea with neem cake to kill nitrifying bacteria. Even water management with neem to control vectors of Japanese encephalitis was  the success of neem over DDT.

The Neem edible fruit — is about 3/4 of an inch (2 cm) long, with white kernels      Postage Stamp on Neem   Indian Neem Could Play Key Role in Death of Cancer Cells      Neem tree could help kill Cancer  cells, according to scientists at the Georgia Regents University Cancer Center.  Cancer cells typically avoid death by hijacking molecular chaperones that guide and protect the proteins that ensure normal cellular function and then tricking them into helping mutated versions of those proteins stay alive, said Dr. Ahmed Chadli, a researcher in the Molecular Chaperone Program at the GRU Cancer Center and author of the study.  Drug development has focused on the chaperone Hsp90 because it plays a key role in assisting mutated proteins, making it an attractive cancer drug target. In this study, Chaitanya Patwardhan, a graduate student in Dr. Chadli's lab, found that gedunin, a compound extracted from the Indian neem tree (Azadirachta indica), attacks a co- chaperone, or helper protein, of Hsp90 called p23. "This compound binds directly to p23, leading to inactivation of the Hsp90 machine without production of  anti- apoptotic proteins thus killing cancer cells," says Dr. Chadli.The study has been named the Journal of "Biological Chemistry's Paper of the Week".

Common Name    Neem (नीम)  Botanical name:       Azadirachta indica   Latin name:              Melia azaderach  English name :         Margosa tree  Sanskrit:                  Nimbah  Hindi:                       Neem (नीम)   Marathi:                   Nimba  Tamil:                      Vempu, Vembu (வேம்பு)  Telgu:                      Kondavepa, Vepa (వేప)   Kannada:                 Bevu ( ಕಹಿ ಬೇವು)  Malayalam               Arya Veppu   Bengali                    Nim (নিম)  Gujarati                   Limdo  Punjabi                    Nimm  Urdu                        Nim ( نیم )  Persian                    Azad derakht "آزاد درخت"  Nepali                      Nim  Iran -                        Cherish    چریش  East Africa               Muarubaini  Hebrew                    אזדרכת  Indian names:          Neem, nim, Indian lilac, nimmi, limbo, limda      Neem tree   The neem tree, Azadirachta indica, is a tropical evergreen with a wide  adaptability. Native to India and Burma, it has been transplanted to Africa, the Middle East, South America and Australia. It is especially suited to semi-arid conditions and thrives even in the poorest soil with rainfalls as little as 18 inches (450 mm) per year and temperatures up to 50° C (120° F). It may grow up to 50 feet (15 m) tall and live for 200 years. The lifespan of the Neem tree is described to be anywhere between 150 to 300 years.   Its blossoms are small, white flowers with a very sweet, jasmine-like scent. Its edible fruit — is about 3/4 of an inch (2 cm) long, with white kernels. A neem tree generally begins bearing fruits at three to five years of age, and can produce up to 50 kg (110 lbs.) of fruit annually when mature. The pinnate leaves have a very bitter taste and a garlic-like smell.     Raw Neem parts used are:    Neem Leaves ,  Neem Seeds,  Neem Bark,  Neem Fruit,  Neem Flower,   Neem Twig,  Neem Gum,  Neem Root and  Neem Kernel    History of Neem   The neem tree has been used for more than 4,500 years in the Indian sub- continent. The Indian physicians CHARAKA (2nd century AD) and SUSRUTA (4th century AD), whose books provided the foundation of the Indian system of natural treatment, the Ayurveda, also mention the the tree and its medical use. In Ayurveda the neem tree was called the "Sarva Roga Nivarini" (= one that could cure all ailments and ills). At the beginning of this century the neem tree was still highly estimed by Indian emigrants and they took it along to  the places were they settled. Thus, the neem tree was introduced in places like Australia, East and sub- Sahelian Africa, South East Asia, and South America. Pioneering work in the possible commercial use of Neem oil and cake had been done by the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore in 1920.     Pioneering work in the possible commercial use of Neem oil and cake had been done by the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore as early as the 1920s. In the last two decades research on neem has been intensified and many of the trees agricultural and medical properties were rediscovered. Today, Neem plays a major role in the rural industry of India and projects for the commercial use of Neem have been successfully introduced in other countries. Neem is popular in the Philippines, more for its insecticides properties (pang-lamok) than for its medicinal applications.   Chemical Compounds in Neem   The chemical  compounds that have been identified  and scientists feel that there are many more compounds yet to be identified in neem. Other then sodium, potassium, salts, it contains chloriphyle, calcium, phosphorus, iron, thiamine, riboflasium, nicocin, vitamin C, carotene, and oxalic acid. The chemicals classified are:  Nimbin:      anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic, anti-histamine, anti-fungal Nimbidin:   anti-bacterial, anti-ulcer, analgesic, anti-arrhythmic, anti-fungal Ninbidol:    anti-tubercular, anti-protozoan, anti-pyretic Gedunin:   vasodilator, anti-malarial, anti-fungal Sodium nimbinate:    diuretic, spermicide, anti-arthritic Quercetin:   anti-protozoal Salannin:    insect repellent Azadirachtin:   insect repellent, anti-feedant, anti-hormonal    Other chemicals that form its therapeutic value are: 1. Limonoids  2. Terpenoids and steroids  3. Tetranortarpenoids 4. Fatty acid derivatives like margosinone and margosinolone  5. Coumarins like scopoletin, dihydrosocoumarins  6.Hydrocarbons like docosane, pentacosane, hetacosane, octacosane etc.   7.Sulphur compounds  8. Phenolics  9.Flavonoglycosides 10. Tannins  The highest concentrations of the active ingredients are found in the seed and oil, however the active ingredients are also found in lesser amounts in the bark and the leaves. Traditionally in Ayurveda the fresh leaves and twigs were used on a daily basis as a preventative for many conditions, including tooth decay, gum disease, malaria, etc. When a serious condition was treated a concentrated paste of the leaves or strong decoction of the leaves and/or the bark was used, for blood purification (in case of bacterial, fungal, or viral infections), malaria, fever, arthritis, rheumatism, and many more. It was also used as a protective agent from nature’s pests both as an insect repellant and insecticide that is both safe and harmless to humans. Traditionally Neem oil was applied externally to the hair, scalp, and skin for parasites and as an insect repellant. It was also massaged into arthritic joints, after being slightly warmed, to relieve pain and inflammation.

Honeybees dying by man-made poisonous insecticides  Honeybees are in serious trouble. 2013 overwinter death rates ranged from 40 to 90 percent across the U.S. and its 2.4 million commercial beehives. The American Honey Producers Association’s  beekeeper of the year, Darren Fox of Cache County, Utah, reported losing 70 percent of his hives this past winter. Beekeepers around the globe are all saying the same thing: Neonicotinoids (a group of insecticides) are wiping their bees out.      The EPA is being sued  by farmers and the following groups: Beyond Pesticides, the Center for Food Safety, the Pesticide Action Network North America, the Sierra Club and the Center for Environmental Health for keeping these lethal chemicals on the U.S. market (California has more than 300 kinds neonicotinoids on its fields).  Nature has a wonderful alternative to man-made poisonous insecticides; it's the Indian neem tree, known globally as 'the village pharmacy.'      Flowers of neem    Flowers of neem, its blossoms are small, white flowers with a very sweet, jasmine-like scent.   The tender shoots and flowers of the neem tree are eaten as a vegetable in India. A souplike dish called "Veppampoo Rasam"( "neem flower rasam ) made of the flower of neem is prepared in Tamil Nadu .    Neem leaves     Neem leaves is used in Southeast Asia particularly in Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Myanmar and Vietnam to cook the salad. Even lightly cooked, the flavour is quite bitter but it is believed to be good for one's health.   In West Bengal, young neem leaves are fried in oil with tiny pieces of eggplant (brinjal).The dish is called "nim begun" and it is eaten with rice.   Face pack  Cut about 10 neem leaves and boil them with small segments of orange peel in a little water. Pound them to a pulp. Add a little honey, yoghurt and soy milk, to form a smooth paste. Apply this to your face This will clear acne and breakouts, dry up white heads, pull out blackheads and even reduce the appearance of pores.Honey and neem are excellent moisturisers.   Conditioner  A paste made of neem leaves boiled in water and honey, and applied to the hair, leaves it well-conditioned, without frizz and dandruff free.   Healer  Extracts of neem leaves and seeds produce pain-relieving, anti- inflammatory and fever-reducing compounds that can aid in the healing of cuts, burns, ear aches, sprains and headaches.  Skin infection  Boil  neem leaves (about 50 leaves in two litres of water) till the the water turns green. Strain and store in a bottle. Add about 100 ml of this to your bath water to rid the skin of infections, acne and white heads.          Neem Gum  Neem Gum is a clear, bright and brown-coloured gum a by product obtained as a result of certain metabolic mechanism of plants and trees. The gum is a multipurpose by product either water soluble or absorb water to form a viscous solution.   Neem gum is a rich source of protein.>   Teatulia’s Neem Nectar Tea      New drugs based on Neem

Medicinal use of Neem   Traditionally Neem was used in Ayurveda for a number of conditions. It is one of  the main ingredients in every blood purification formula used in Ayurveda and it appears in most Diabetic formulas as well. It is also used for arthritis, rheumatism, the removal of external and internal parasites, including malaria and fevers and as an insect repellent.   Neem possesses anti-diabetic, antibacterial and antipyretic (fever reducing) properties. Neem is used for a wide range of ailments including flu, fever, sore throat, cold, fungal infections, skin diseases, malaria and many more ailments.  The main medicinal use of different parts of neem in Ayurveda are:    Medicinal use of NEEM in Ayurveda Part      Medicinal Use Leaf Leprosy, skin problems, skin ulcers, intestine worms, anorexia, eye problems, epistaxis, biliousness Bark Analgesic, curative of fever Flower Elimination of intestine worms, phlegm, bile suppression, Fruit Diabetes, eye problem, piles, intestine worms, urinary disorder, wounds, leprosy, epistaxis Twig  Asthma, cough, piles, intestine worms, obstinate urinary disorder, phantom tumor,  spermatorrhoea  Gum Scabies, wounds, ulcer, skin diseases  Seed Intestine worms and leprosy  Oil Intestine worms, skin diseases and leprosy Root Refrigerant, diutretic     According to Ayurveda, it is useful in treating all sorts of Pitta, Kapha and Vatic disorders. It should be consumed early in morning on empty stomach for 15 days during the end of winter till the starting of summer season. This prevents most of the diseases through out the year.     Under no circumstance should Neem products be taken by pregnant women.   Modern Research    (i) Neem's Effects against Bacteria: There have been a number of clinical studies showing that Neem has significant effects on several bacterial strains. Among some of the more prominent strains studied were staphylococcus aureus, streptococcus pyogenes, cornebacterium, E. coli, and salmonella typhosa.  These bacteria’s can cause meningitis, cystitis, sore throats, typhoid, blood poisoning, and food poisoning. Neem's ability to exert significant effects over the above mentioned bacterial strains indicates it’s ability to resolve the aforementioned conditions.  (ii) Neem's Effects against Viruses:  There are certain compounds in Neem that demonstrate a unique ability to surround viruses, which prevents them from causing infection. Neem also inhibits viral multiplication by interacting with the surface of the cells to prevent the cell from becoming infected by the virus. Neem has been observed to be effective against a number of viral pathogens in various clinical studies demonstrating it contains unique properties to inhibit viral disease. Neem is one of just a few known antiviral agents. Chickenpox, shingles, herpes, and hepatitis are viral conditions, which have been successfully treated, in clinical studies by Neem’s therapeutic compounds. The uncomfortable symptoms of colds and flu’s can be relieved during seasonal changes by the regular consumption of Neem Leaf capsules, extract, or tea.  (iii) Neem's Effects against Fungi: India's tropical climate especially in the coastal regions creates the kind of humid hot house atmosphere that funguses thrive in. Traditionally, in Ayurveda, Neem seed oil, aqueous extracts of Neem leaf, Neem leaf powder, the smoke from burning dried Neem leaves, and Neem leaf pastes have been used for the prevention and treatment of fungal conditions in India. Athlete's foot, ringworm, and Candida, which causes vaginal yeast infections and thrush, are some of the more common fungi that attack humans. There are two medicinal compounds in the Neem leaf, gedunin and nimbidol, which have been clinically proven to control these fungi. Jock itch, another fungi that attacks humans, has been treated traditionally in India for thousands of years with Neem seed oil and aqueous extracts of Neem leaf. Creating medicinal smoke by burning dried Neem leaves, is an ancient practice in Ayurveda for purifying the atmosphere around a seriously ill patient. A clinical study examining the efficacy of this ancient practice found that smoke from burning dried Neem leaves exerted an extreme suppression of fungal growth and germination. Amongst the thousands of Ayurvedic medicinal plants in India, modern clinical research has now proven that Neem extracts contain some of the most powerful antifungal compounds against certain fungi.  (iv) Neem's Effects against Parasites: Ayurveda has recommended the use of Neem to rid the body of all forms of parasites. Simple aqueous extracts of Neem leaves have been the standard treatment for external parasitic infestation without any side effects throughout India. Neem’s effectiveness against parasites is due to compounds that mimic hormones. This activity interrupts the life cycle of parasites by inhibiting the ability of the parasites to feed, and preventing parasite eggs from hatching. Neem has demonstrated these effects against lice, and against itch mites which cause scabies. Intestinal worms are treated and prevented throughout the tropics by regular consumption of Neem teas.    Neem has both curative and preventative effects on the Malaria parasite the methods for accomplishing this are as varied as the active ingredients in Neem. There are two compounds in Neem, which are clinically proven to be as effective against the malarial parasite as both quinine and chloroquine; they are gedunin, a limonoid and quercetin, a flavonoid. The leaves can be chewed and consumed on a daily basis as a preventative like quinine and Neem leaf extracts are clinically proven to be as effective as chloroquine against the malarial parasite. There is still another study, which shows that Neem leaf extracts prevent the normal development of the malarial plasmodia by increasing the state of oxidation in the red blood cells. One of the most impressive accomplishments of Neem against parasites is its effectiveness against encephalitis.   (v) Neem's Effect against Skin diseases :     Eczema: In the case of eczema clinical studies demonstrate that even the application of weaker Neem leaf extracts effectively cured acute conditions of eczema. Using a Soap or shampoo containing Neem oil can easily relieve the itching and redness of eczema.    Acne: Neem effectively ills the bacteria that cause Acne and studies prove that Neem will reduce inflammation, even the inflammation produced by Acne.   Skin problems: Dry Skin, Wrinkles, Dandruff, Itchy Scalp, Skin Ulcers and Warts are other conditions that can be effectively resolved by the use of soaps, lotions, and creams, containing Neem leaf extracts and oil.     Grind neem leaves and turmeric together and apply the paste on the face to remove dark spots.     (vi) Neem's effectiveness against Periodontal Disease: Throughout India village people use Neem twigs and leaves to brush their teeth, and keep their gums free of disease and infection even though they have limited access to modern dental care. The ancient Ayurvedic practice of using Neem to heal and rejuvenate gum tissue and to prevent cavities and gum disease is verified in modern clinical studies.  (vii) Neem’s effects on the immune system:   According to the ancient healing system of Ayurveda the bark of the Neem tree will strengthen an individuals resistance to disease. Modern clinical studies have identified a number of compounds in the Neem tree that effectively regulate immune system functions. There are immunomodulatory polysaccharide compounds, especially present in Neem bark, that apparently increase antibody production.  (viii) Treatment for several diseases:  Heart Disease:        Including high blood pressure, blood clots, cholesterol, and Arrhythmia/rapid heart beat.  Blood Disorders:      Including poor circulation, blood poisoning, and kidney problems. Digestive Disorders: Including heartburn/indigestion, peptic/duodenal ulcers, gastritis, and hemorrhoids. Nervous Disorders:  Including anxiety, epilepsy, and hives.  Sexually Transmitted Diseases:  Including gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, genital herpes, genital/vaginal warts, candidacies, and urinary tract infections. As far as AIDS is concerned the immunomodulatory properties of  Neem appear to enhance cell-mediated immune response in people who are HIV positive but who do not have full blown AIDS. Jaundice and Hepatitis:  Drink the diluted juice of the tender neem leaves with a tea spoon of honey to flush out toxins in liver disorders. Neem is anti-pruritic, thermogenic, tonic, stomachic and abdominal movement controller. 2 teaspoon of Neem leaves juice with honey is indicated to accelerate the process of cure. Birth Control:  Works for Men and Women. It is said that neem might be the solution for birth control in men as experiments have shown it can make sperm infertile without affecting sex drive or impeding the sperm count. Respiratory disorder:  Decoction of Neem bark is used as anti-tussive in dry cough. Dried Neem leaves powder given daily in 1 gm dose twice a day with honey suppresses cough. Neem oil 5-10 drops given with 2 tablespoon of sugar once a day for 15 days helps in tropical Eosinophilia. The expectorant, depurative and antiseptic properties of Neem attribute to cure cough.  Diabetes:  Neem being biter, stomachic, anti-pruritic, and revitalize works wonders in this disease. One table spoon of Neem leaves juice approximately 5 ml taken early in the morning on empty stomach for 3 months is helpful in diabetes. 10 Neem leaves chewed or powder taken daily in the morning also controls diabetes.  Cancer:  Neem being depurative purifies the blood and being an astringent decreases the body heat. Chewing of 10 to 20 Neem leaves early morning with warm water is helpful.  Leprosy and Leucoderma:   10 drops of Neem oil mixed with 1 teaspoon sugar twice a day acts as a supportive part of treatment. The anti-leprotic action of Neem works.   Allergy:  8 to 10 fresh Neem leaves are to be eaten early morning on an empty stomach. This helps in purifying blood and controls the allergic condition.   It is used also in Tuberculosis, Bronchitis, Conjunctivitis, Allergies, Bad Breath, Hangover, Stress, Insomnia, Smoking, and on and on.     (ix) Treatment for AIDS:  The National Institutes of Health reported positive results from a 1993 study using neem to kill the AIDS virus in a lab. The suggested pathway is via neem’s immune modulating polysaccharide compounds that may cause increased antibody production. Further research is underway.   (x) Diabetes:  Neem has been shown to reduce insulin in the blood. The Indian Government allows the sale of neem for this purpose. Dosage as small as one tablespoon a day can reduce insulin levels by 50%.

Mocktail for dengue patients  The Chennai health minister asked government hospitals to furnish dengue patients with a “mocktail” of juice made from neem and papaya leaves. The elixir dates back 2,500 years to the birth of Siddha medicine, a South Indian practice that is a close cousin of ayurvedic medicine.   Then, this week, the King Institute of Preventive Medicine, a flagship government hospital in the Tamil Nadu capital of Chennai, announced its intention to do a double-blind study to see how effective the neem-papaya mix is in battling dengue. This month it started a trial in rats to make sure the treatment isn’t toxic.  Usefulness of Neem for ear, eye infections       Researchers in a follow up to a survey of plants in the northern parts of Nigeria, indicated that extracts of neem seed could be used in the manufacture of eye and ear drops or ointment for the treatment of common problems caused by germs. The 2010 study entitled “The antibacterial activity of Azadarichta indica (neem) seeds extracts against bacterial pathogens associated with eye and ear infections” involved A. M. El- Mahmood, O. B. Ogbonna and M. Raji, all from the Federal University of Technology, Yola, Adamawa State.    Neem in dental gel      The College of Pharmaceutical Sciences in India found that Neem leaf extract in a dental gel reduced plaque and bacteria.   Neem Juice health benefits       Neem juice is very bitter and difficult to drink but there are several health benefits of neem juice.  *Neem juice extract is best to get rid of acne or pimples. Neem juice also improves the complexion. *By drinking neem juice, the toxins from the system are flushed out. This improves the hair quality, skin complexion and digestion. *Neem juice is considered effective for diabetic patients. By having neem juice everyday, you control the sugar levels in the body. *Applying few drops of neem juice on the eyes improves eye sight and also cures conjunctivitis. *Massaging the skin with neem juice reduces dark chicken pox marks. Skin diseases such as eczema and small pox are also cured by having neem juice. * Neem juice cures malaria. Neem juice reduces the development of virus and improves the liver functioning. * Neem juice reduces vaginal pain during pregnancy. Many pregnant women massage with neem juice to get rid of labor pain.   To drink neem juice easily, you can also add a pinch of salt or black pepper or both in neem juice.     Immunostimulant activity  The aqueous extract of neem bark and leaf also possesses  anticomplement  and  immunostimulant  activity. Neem oil has been shown to possess activity by selectively activating the cell-mediated immune mechanisms to elicit an enhanced response to subsequent mitogenic or antigenic challenge.  Neem is a suitable biofuel crop.         The Karnataka State Biofuel Development Board (KSBDB) is promoting honge species along with several locally available and useful tree species such as neem, jathropha, simaruba and hippe tree for the development of bio-diesel.  Apart from having medicinal value, neem is a suitable biofuel crop. A kilogram of neem seeds has 2,500- 3,000 numbers. A well grown 10-12 year old neem tree yields 15 kilograms of seeds. Simaruba and jatropha are also known to be good bio-fuel crops.

Modern Studies:   1. Anti hyerglycemic activity of neem leaf extracts was observed in experimental studies on non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus -induced rats.  2. Antifertility effects of aqueous and steroidal extract of neem leaf were observed observed in an experimntal study in West Indies.  3. Immunomodulatory effects of NIM-76, a volatile fraction of neem oil were found in experimental study in Delhi.  4. Anti diabetic and antihyperlipemic effects of neem seed powder were observed in experimental studies in Baroda.  5. Neem Seeds found to be a promising coagulant in defluoridation according to a research in Ghana. The plot of the fluoride conc. levels of neem seeds as coagulants reveals that it has the potential of removing up to 10 mg/L of fluoride in 24 hours.   6. Recently it is found that neem trees have been hit by a plant virus called root-knot nematode, which destroys trees by killing off their roots. Worse, this virus is spreading among other trees also. Experts treating the trees are unable to ascertain how the trees caught the virus.  7. Injury-induced infections often heal faster with turmeric, neem and rose water than antiobiotics. Or, neem and turmeric could cure an upset stomach in an hour, according to a group of doctors in Kolkata who believe in "ethical treatment". Good medicine is not necessarily allopathic, homeopathic or ayurvedic. Rather, it could be a combination of the three or any two of these depending on the symptoms and the condition of the patient.  8. Contraceptive Agents : Indian scientists from the Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences (DIPAS) have applied for patents on chemicals isolated from the neem oil which have proved to be promising contraceptive agents which are DK-1 & DNM-5. A third active agent coded as DNM-7 acts as an abortifacient causing abortion if administered orally after implantation has already occurred. A Neem oil formulation called "Sensal" is now sold in India for contraceptive purposes.   Neem Extracts and Oils   Neem extract contains the concentrated form of active or principle compounds found in neem.    Method of Neem Extraction: Industrial scale neem extraction process make use of solvents such as alcohol, ether, and hydrocarbons instead of water. Aqueous extracts are said to work nearly as well as others.    Aqueous Neem Extraction : Powdered seeds, kernels or leaves are soaked overnight in water and the next morning the extract is strained through a piece of cloth; the desired volume of concentrated extract can then be  used for desired purpose. Aqueous extract is generally rich in water soluble amino acids, pigments, soluble bitters and carbohydrates.    Solvent Neem Extraction : Organic solvents such as alcohol, dimethyl sulfoxide and ethers are also used to manufacture high concentration extracts. The choice of solvent and temperature and time determine the efficiency of extraction.    Neem oil:  Neem oil is a versatile natural vegetable oil extracted from the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), a renewable resource native to eastern India and Burma. It kills insects, mites and fungi, and is said to repel mosquitoes. It's hardly a new product, having been used for medicinal and agricultural applications for more than 4,000 years. Over the past few years, neem oil has become one of the most highly recommended pesticides in Florida because it controls pests without harming most beneficial insects. Pure neem oil is a therapeutic ingredient found in products ranging from lotions and salves to shampoos and soap.    Neem Oil an effective repellent:  Neem oil is an effective repellent of a wide variety of common garden bugs, including caterpillars, nematodes, locusts, aphids, Japanese beetles and mites. In the home, neem oil can be used to combat ant, cockroach, fly, termite, mosquito and bedbug infestations.    Neem oil smothers insects:  Neem oil smothers insects and also acts as an anti-feedant. When insects sense Neem, they go the other way.Neem oil enters the system and blocks the real hormones from working properly. “Insects ‘forget’ to eat, to mate, or they stop laying eggs. Some forget that they can fly. If eggs are produced they don’t hatch, or the larvae don’t molt.”   Neem Oil Pesticide:  Neem oil is a cost-effective pesticide has steadily increased in usage and popularity over the past few years. To make a litre of general-purpose neem oil spray, mix 5mls neem oil, 2mls of liquid soap and 1 litre of water. Add the soap to the water first and then slowly stir in the neem oil. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and use the mix within 8 hours as beyond that the ingredients will start to break down.   Toxic: There has been reports that Neem oil can cause some form of toxic encephalopathy and ophthalmopathy if consumed in large quantities.    Neem Honey   In India, neem trees are a major source of honey bee forage. Honey , obtained from the Neem tree has more medicinal properties. Neem honey is composed primarily of water, fructose and glucose (22.88%), sucrose (7.46%), ash (0.06%), free acid (20.8 meg/kg). The honey is light amber in color, and its viscosity is low. The taste is good although slightly bitter.  Neem honey improves eye sight and is harmless for diabetic patients. It is also used to treat eye disorder by applying as netranjan (eye-liner). It is very beneficial in care of burning sensation of the body. One teaspoon to 2 teaspoon twice a day may be given. Since Neem is believed to be a great blood purifier and good for the eyes, Neem honey is highly valued.   Uses of Neem   Neem extracts can be used in different industries like agricultural industry, herbal industry, pharmaceutical industry to manufacture quality natural products. Neem extracts have a high medicinal value, they are used to cure a number of diseases such as:     Neem Gum: Use of Neem Gum in Industries  Cosmetic Industry: Facial masks, lotions, face powder, protective creams.   Paper Industry : Used as an adhesive and strengthening the paper.   Pharmaceutical Industry : In antiseptic creams, tablet binder, and coater.   Textile Industry : Used in dyeing and printing of fabrics.   Personal Hygiene Industry : Used in soaps, tooth paste, tooth powders.   Food Industry : Used as a stabilizing agent, gels and thickening agent.   Cosmetic industries:  Neem is also used cosmetically and in toiletries. In India, Neem sprigs are boiled, and the water is then used as a hair wash. Neem hair treatment clears scalp infections and dandruff and stimulates both the growth and texture of the hair and rids the scalp of nits, dry itchy scalp and excessive oiliness. It is very effective in clearing up fungal infections like athletes foot, ringworm and Candida.   Hair care:  Neem is used to prevent falling or graying of hair.  Two drops of Neem oil put in the nostril prevents falling and graying of hair. To get rid of lice and dandruff Neem oil massage should be done on scalp during night. In the morning, hair should be washed with Neem water.     Neem extract cloths  A Delhi-based company Advantage Organic, is using extracts of neem and basil  leaves and flecks of silver in the briefs and panties so that the ones using it do not get any bacterial infection  The Indian underwear manufacturer says its knickers, crafted using neem oil, basil leaves and pure silver, will smooth the wearer's skin as well as  protecting them against infection. Neem, a type of mahogany known in India as the "Divine Tree", is known for its soothing properties and has long been used in Asia as an ingredient in skincare products to ease irritations.    Malaria Prevention: Drinking neem teas or chewing a couple of leaves every day reduces the possibility of contracting malaria a mosquito-born fever. Extracts obtained by a water and acetone combination are even more effective than plain neem tea.    Apart from its use against malaria, neem plays a traditional role in the treatment of urinary disorders, skin disease, diabetes, fungi infections and viral diseases. Neem twigs contain antiseptic ingredients which provide dental hygiene and has been used for this purpose by people from rural areas in India and parts of Africa. Neem is also of ecological importance: In Africa the tree is used as a shade tree and as a source of fuelwood. In the Sahel countries, neem as been used for halting the spread of the Sahara desert.In many developing countries the wood is used in making fence post, poles for house construction, and furniture.

Honey, collected from beehives on neem trees       Doctors at the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) have devised a "sweet" method to treat patients with severe wounds visiting its out patients' department. Inspired from remedies adopted by soldiers in World War II, the doctors are using Honey to heal chronic wounds and bedsores. The honey, collected from beehives on neem trees, has been supplied to the premier institute by Baba Ramdev's Patanjali Yogpeeth  in Haridwar.   Ash tree treatment  Oakville has the most aggressive EAB management program in the country,” Mayor Rob Burton said. In total, the Town is treating approximately 6,000 municipal ash trees on a bi-annual basis for the next 10 years; forty per cent receive treatment in odd years, while 60 per cent receive treatment in even years. TreeAzin is a natural and safe bio-insecticide derived from the seeds of the neem tree. It provides two years of protection against EAB before it must be reapplied.    Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is now infesting ash trees across the Greater Toronto Area. The invasive pest is responsible for killing tens of millions of ash trees in Canada and the U.S. since 2002. This year is believed to be a tipping point for the EAB population in the GTA, a time when ash trees will begin to decline rapidly if left untreated.              Neem tree may hold clues for HIV treatment   An Indian origin researcher has hinted that extracts from neem tree, profuse in tropical and subtropical areas, may thwart the virus from multiplying. Sonia Arora, from Kean University in New Jersey finds the curative properties of the neem tree in fighting the virus that causes AIDS. Her  results  indicate that there are compounds in neem extracts that target a protein essential for HIV to replicate. If further studies support her findings, Arora`s work may give a new HIV-AIDS therapy to pursue. Arora`s scientific training gave her expertise in the cellular biology of cancer, pharmacology, bioinformatics and structural biology. More... :   New drugs based on Neem   MALE CONTRACEPTION    In the past, the typical male contraceptives included chemicals extracted from plants. These plant chemicals include Neem tree oil, papaya seeds and hemp seeds These chemicals prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg by interfering with sperm concentration, motility and viability.

Use in Agriculture:   Neem tree has superb pharmaceutical and pesticide controlling qualities. The azadirachton compound in neem has been recognized as an effective insecticide that is biologically selective, not harming the useful pest- predators but keeping almost 250 harmful ones at bay.   Neem cake is traditionally put in rice fields as a fertilizer. Scientists recommend coating urea with neem cake to kill nitrifying bacteria. Neem also contains salanin, a chemical substance that is a potent pest controller and is said to be far more effective than the chemically produced diethyl-toluamide that is a part of most of the lethal synthetically produced pesticides. Agro scientists say that neem is the most eco-friendly pesticide which nature has bestowed on man. They recommend that neem and its kernel should be liberally mixed with compost and set to rot. The pesticide is ready in around three to four months depending on the weather conditions. Organic farming using neem as a pesticide is still done on a very miniscule scale in India. here are hardly any pesticide-free farm products available in the country though there is a growing demand for these.   Many western agro-scientists say that if neem is effective on a small scale, it can be done on a larger scale as well. There is a certain urgency in advocating the use of neem as a pesticide as there is a growing concern on the lethal pesticides being used in our day-to-day foods.  For example, a minimum of six to seven chemical pesticides are sprayed on an apple tree before the fruit is plucked. Just before harvesting the apple trees are sprayed with fungicides and pesticides along with daminozide, a growth regulator. Finally the fruit is sprayed with 'alar' to heighten its redness. Once the apples reach the cold storage they are sprayed with pesticides once again to keep off the rats and insects. Just imagine what it does to your body every time you eat an apple. Which is exactly the reason why scientists are so bullish about the neem option as a pesticide. Because  not just as a pesticide, neem has its medicinal values as well.    Neem Dream Insect Control:  Mix neem oil in water and spray on plants. Neem oil doesn't kill pests outright,  It affects their physiologic processes so that they no longer eat, mate or mature. And because insects must feed on plant tissues to be affected, neem-treated plants are safe for beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.   Neem-based bioinsecticides: Thapar University, one of India’s top technical universities, announced the commercial production of neem-based bioinsecticides at the university’s bio processing unit on October 06, 2008.  Dr. Abhijit Mukherjee, Director, Thapar University, said, “We are confident that herbal bioinsecticides have tremendous market potential and will become a promising small scale business venture.”    “Bioorganic farming is of significant importance as bioinsecticides and biopesticides are herbal, non-toxic and environment friendly. Broad spectrum insecticides offer effective protection against pests. These environment- friendly products do not cause contamination of soil and ground water, and have wide applications,” added Dr. Mukherjee. India plans to register neem-based products as a pesticide under its Insecticide Act. A pilot project using neem is being implemented since 2000 in some 80 villages in South 24 Parganas district in West Bengal and Nagpur district in Maharashtra, with support from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.   Neem purify air   Neem purify air and helps to clean environment. Neem compounds from neem trees are said to have anti- inflam­matory and antiviral properties. Neem trees should be planted around hospitals and sani­tariums. Place packets of neem tree leaves or camphor balls inside bookcases or cupboards to protect from insect infestation.         Neem leaf tea   A tea made from the leaves and mature seeds is still a popular remedy today for treating bladder, kidney and prostate ailments. This brewed tea can be added to a base cream and used as a healing, soothing treatment forhaemorrhoids. The bark and roots can be made into a tea and has been used for centuries to treat jaundice and liver ailments, intestinal parasites, stomach ulcers and malaria.    A strong tea of the leaves is used as a lotion for sprains, bruises and swollen glands – a bandage or cloth soaked in the hot tea is applied to the area and held in place, often with a banana leaf wrapped around it. As a wash and lotion the same tea is used for eczema, rashes, grazes and scrapes and to wash out wounds. Leaves heated in boiling water are applied to boils, sprains, infected wounds, bites, stings and infected grazes.    To make neem leaf tea : pour 1 cup of boiling water over ¼ cup fresh leaves, stand for 5 minutes, strain and sip slowly. The tea is taken to reduce blood sugar levels, lower fevers, and to treat tuberculosis, bladder ailments, arthritis, rheumatism, jaundice, worms, malaria and skin disease.   Economy   The exports of the neem seeds from India have increasing rapidly. The overseas companies rushing to India has also results a ten-fold rise in the price of neem seeds from Rs. 300 to Rs. 3,000 a tonne. If the prices shoot up and exports keep rising, the ubiquitous neem may become out of reach for the ordinary Indian farmer.     Even some of the most cautious researchers are saying that neem deserves to be called a wonder plant. According to Noel Vietmeyer, the study director of a 1992 National Research Council report entitled "Neem: A Tree for Solving Global Problems."         Today, Perrin Fitter’s is the promoter of ‘Greening of India with neem’ project. Born and brought up in Kenya, Fitter has been a teacher-cum-environment conservationist there for the last 40 years. After promoting neem in Kenya, where she is known as ‘Mama Neem’, she wants to create awareness about the qualities of neem. In India, neem is not valued much economically. In Kenya, even leaves of neem fetch you money  “My project is not just confined to planting neem trees but to promote its use to the grassroots by way of talks, seminars, workshops, conferences and demonstrations,” Fitter says.   Neem in co-generation of electricity:  The 12 sugar mills identified by Tamil Nadu Government for co- generation of electricity under a Rs 1,500 crore programme would start producing a total of 187 MW from June 2011, a top official of Tamil Nadu Electricity Board (TNEB) has said on first week of October 2010.  After completion of the installation, the 12 sugar mills would start producing 187 MW of power from June, 2011, Mr Singh said last evening at Chennampatty village in the district after inspecting cultivation of Hill Neem trees, whose wood is used as a fuel to burn surplus bagasse for producing energy. Stating that the government and TNEB were encouraging cultivation of Hill Neem trees, he said farmers would get Rs 2,500 per tonne for the wood. He appealed the farmers to raise more neem trees and supply them to paper industry also   Some of Neem products are soaps, bath powders, shampoos, lotions and creams, toothpastes, neem leaf capsules to increase immunity and as a skin purifier, insect repellents and pet care products are in great demand.   Neem in Hindu Religion   In Hindu traditions, on the first day of Chaitra, Hindu's in North India worship the neem and eat its leaves, mixed with pepper and sugar, as a safeguard from fever. The neem tree besides having various medicinal benefits is a highly revered tree among the Hindus because it is a manifestation of "Goddess Durga" or "Maa Kali". That is why the tree is sometimes referred to as Neemari Devi. Tamil Ladies, while worshiping Maa kali dress in red, carry branches of the Neem tree, and dance in public places swishing the branches as an act of exorcism and to purify the world. The multi-headed occult goddess Yellamma  sometimes assumes the appearance of a young neem tree. Young maidens worship this Goddess by cladding themselves all over in neem branches. In Bengal, neem is considered to be the tree which is the abode of "Sitala" (the great Pox-mother who can cause or cure disease). The customary treatment of pox is therefore to rub the body with neem leaves while making prayers to Sitala. It is also said that the smoke of burning neem protects both the living and the dead from evil spirits.   Gudhi Padwa festival is especially dedicated to the worship of Lord Brahma. Maharashtrians see the gudhi as a symbol of victory associated with the conquests of the Maratha forces lead by the great hero Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Traditionally, families are supposed to begin the festivities by eating the bittersweet leaves of the neem tree. Sometimes, a paste of neem leaves is prepared and mixed with ajwain, gur, and tamarind. All the members of the family consume this paste, which is believed to purify the blood and strengthen the body’s immune system against diseases.    People in many villages in south India continue to live by the belief that their traditional practices, rituals and superstitions will invariably help them lead a better life. In one such instance, people in a Coimbatore village organised a symbolic wedding of a Neem and Banyan tree on June 2009 to appease Rain God.     Neem patent case   The neem patent was granted by the European Patent Office to the United States Department of Agriculture and the chemical multinational, W.R. Grace, on September 14, 1994. Since then, Dr. Shiva, along with the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movement and the Green Party in European Parliament, had been opposing it. In 2000, the European Patent Office revoked the patent but the victory was short-lived as the revocation was followed by an appeal.    At the hearing March 09, 2005, the patent was revoked after a petition was filed which was backed by the signatures of more than 100,000 Indians and 225 agricultural, scientific and trade groups in 45 countries. Dr. Shiva said. "We gave them evidence of farmers using this knowledge for a long time and also gave them information about the two scientists who had conducted research on neem in the 1960s and 1970s before the patent had been granted. During the hearing they dismissed the appeal and upheld the earlier revocation of the patent."  Calling it a historic moment, Dr. Shiva said: "Patenting is one of the ways through which traditional users can be threatened. But now, such patents will no longer be a threat for traditional users.   Neem Africa’s green gold   Senegalese scientist, Dr. Doudou D.Faye, has said that African unity can be achieved through the maximum exploitation of natural resources like the 'Neem' tree if the development needs of the African continent are to be properly addressed.      Now northern Nigeria has discovered a huge economic potentials in Neem tree .According to Bello Ahmad, "Beyond all the possible pesticides and pharmaceuticals, neem provides many useful and valuable commonplace materials. For instance, oil extracted from the seeds goes into soaps, waxes, and lubricants, as well as into fuels for lighting and heating. The solid residue left after the oil is removed from the kernels, is employed as a fertilizer. In addition, wood from the trees is valued for construction, cabinetry, and fuel. The bark is tapped for gum and extracted for tannins and dental-care products. The leaves are sometimes used for emergency livestock feed. And the profuse flowers are a prized source of honey." Of all these products, the neem oil is perhaps the most commercially important. According to Bello, "In composition, it is much like other vegetable oils, composed primarily of triglycerides of oleic, stearic, linoleic, and palmitic acids.  To obtain neem oil, the seeds are first broken open and the kernels separated. The kernels are then pressed in industrial expellers or in hand- or bullock-operated wooden presses (ghanis). The oil yield is sometimes as high as 50 percent of the weight of the kernel. This "cold-pressed oil" is mainly used in lamps, soaps, and other nonedible products. It is generally dark, bitter, and smelly. Unlike most vegetable oils, it contains sulfur compounds, whose pungent odor is reminiscent of garlic."   While lending credence to the numerous views on the diverse benefits of the tree, the Katsina state governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Shema, was quoted  as saying that the neem tree has a huge potential for industrial use and export purposes. "The neem tree is a wonderful plant," Shema said. "It is in abundance in Katsina State. It is a tree that you plant which does not require a lot of water after it has grown up, and it works to reduce desertification." According to him, the neem tree has potential for industrial use with great potential for export.     Azadirachta indica is an extensively popular tree in Nigeria and is commonly referred to as Neem (English), “Dogon Yaro” (Hausa) and “Akun shorop” (Igbo).

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu as Nimai  Lord Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu who is actually Lord Krishna Himself, known variously as Gaura (due to his golden complexion) and Nimai (due to his birth under a Neem tree).    Neem Leaves  Neem leaves are known for their immune boosting properties, says Dr.Gilbertha St. Rose a dermatologist and a herbalist based in St. Lucia. "Making a tea with 3 to 5  neem leaves can lower the risk of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, large prostate and even prevent cancer," she says.   Neem Tea To Low High BP           Neem Tea is excellent for lowering High Blood Pressure. Over the world thousands of High Blood Pressure sufferers use Neem Tea to control their High Blood Pressure and it works great.They only continue to drink Neem Tea to normalize their High Blood Pressure because it works, no other reason. To lower your blood pressure back to the normal range, you drink the Neem Tea 2 times a week by drinking 1 cup per  serving.   Women wearing neem leaves perform nude worship          Women continues to worship nude in Handanakerae village of  Chikkanayakanahalli taluka of Tumkur district. Over 100 women worshipped in this manner, with men looking on. The incident took place on Friday night in this remote village in the district.       Mosquitoes repellents  Famous *OnGuard* mosquitoes repellent is produced in Johannesburg, South Africa, where its active ingredients are harvested "hrysanthemum cineriaefolium", a natural pyrethrum insecticide, and oil from the seeds of the neem tree. Neem oil has been used for centuries as an insecticide and also an ingredient in cosmetics.          To grow Rose and other plants - protect them from diseases - pests without using chemical solutions. Pests can be controlled with Neem Tree Oil.  Neem Oil also tends to reduce the problem of black spot. Diseases such as rust, black spot, powdery mildew and botrytis are controlled by neem extract sprays,        Chemicals used to kill insects in your garden have a time and a place in your options for pest control. The disadvantages to using a chemical are numerous, including upsetting the natural balance by killing off all insects. Neem ingredients are more effective for your lawn and gardens. NEEM Ingredients contains 2 ingredients, azadirachtin (AZA0 and liminoids, both from the seed kernels of the neem tree fruit. Sprayed onto plant leaves. Upsets the insects hormonal system and prevents it from developing to its mature stage. Most effective on immature insects and species that undergo complete metamorphosis. It is Non-toxic to humans.       Neem flowers in Ugadi festival   The Telugu people celebrated Ugadi, the Telugu New Year Day on April 5, 2011 with great enthusiasm. On eve of the Ugadi festival almost all people distribus Ugadi pachidi' (chatney) among their relatives and friends.   Pests to Control with Neem Oil  There are the some most troublesome pests which Neem Oil is used to eliminate and/or control.   Anthracnose, Aphids, Armyworms,  Blight, Boxelder Bugs, Caterpillars, Cockroaches, Corn Earworm, Flies, Grasshoppers, Locusts, Mealybugs, Mites, Potato Beetle, Slugs, Snails

Neem checks Climate Change and Global Warming    Creating awareness of the importance of neem, conservation and protection of the existing neem saplings and planting new ones will be the focus of a state-wide drive that will undertaken by youths and citizens.  "The Neem Tree Conservation Project An Answer to climate Change and Global Warming ", a two-year awareness campaign floated by Pune-based youth organisation Uth 2 Uth, will soon commence.     "Neem is said to have an impact over the water availability, soil fertility, control over pest insects, shift in agricultural practices, spread of epidemic diseases and sudden climate changes resulting in drought. Taking our environmental initiatives further, we are implementing this massive neem tree plantation and conservation programme in order to make the city and the surroundings of Pune greener, and help reduce the pollution levels," said Ameya Jagtap, president of Uth 2 Uth.   A systematic plantation of healthy neem saplings in the premises of schools, colleges, government buildings, housing societies, gardens, open spaces, industry premises, hill tops and slopes will follow in June 2011 during the onset of monsoons. The initiative will also involve publishing an informative booklet, organising orientation programmes, identifying areas and reaching out to the interested individuals and organisations.  "The idea is to achieve a conservation target of at least ten thousand neem trees in the first phase of two years. A birth certificate and progress card will be recorded for each sapling that is planted. We want to have at least 2,000 participants involved in this project," Jagtap added.   Neem checks desert and enrich environment   Inspired by the green cover in the desert area of Israel, a man here is determined to transform the Thar desert by undertaking massive plantation on his own. Kishore Khimawat, a diamond merchant by profession, has so far planted over 1.75 lakh neem plants in the district. The green cover along many roads in the region reflects the dedication and hard work behind the plantation work done by him. Not only road sides, but hospitals, schools and institute premises also have green cover due to the efforts of Khimawat, who hails from Khimel village, about 60 kms from here, and is now settled in Mumbai.  "Over 1.75 lakh saplings on several road sides, in a total area of 290 kms, have been planted in the district so far with cent per cent survival rate," Khimawat said. "Experts suggested that I plant neem which grows even in adverse conditions, offering maximum greenery which in turn attracts rainfall and keeps the environment healthy," he said   Neem undiscovered cure for cancer   Khushali Upadhyay of Rutherford recently placed as a semi-finalist for research she did on the effectiveness of chemical extracts taken from the Neem tree on leukemia cells. Upadhyay took leaves from the Neem tree, a species native to Southeast Asia and rarely found outside India and Pakistan. The tree is widely used in India as a home-cure for many different ailments: it's used in tea and in toothpaste, it's recognized as having anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. "The Neem is something we use in almost everything," said Upadhyay. Her family moved to the United States from India when she was about five years old, but she and her family have travelled back there each year to visit their relatives in Bombay. "It's considered the miracle tree in India."   The uses got Upadhyay wondering if anyone had ever tested to see if the tree be effective against cancer. A review of the available research showed that relatively little had been done and almost all of it overseas in India. Upadhyay then set about getting leaves from the Neem tree and using solvents to extract different chemical compounds from the plant. Using the extensive facilities provided by Bergen Academy, Upadhyay tested the chemicals on healthy human immune system cells called "natural killer cells" and on leukemia cells. Her research showed that the Neem extract helped strengthen the immune system cells. "The Neem [acted] as a natural antioxidant to help the natural killer cells survive," she said. After two years of research, Upadhyay submitted her research to the Intel Science Talent Search, a prestigious nationwide research competition for high school students that's been around since 1942. Out of 1,744 applicants across the country, (Courtsy :www.northjersey.com)

How neem trees yield money   Some hundred neem trees have changed the lives of people in two villages, Amarchintha in Mahabubnagar district and Revalli in Nalgonda, both in the Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh.  Based on the Japanese inputs, Bio-India Biological Corporation (BIB) decided to work with local communities for collecting the neem leaves without involving any middle men, brokers or traders and under the National Biodiversity Act principles.   About 2,100 kg of leaf was, so far, exported to Japan. The Indian company is keen on working with many communities on sustainable harvesting methods to meet bulk needs of Japanese firms. BIB says the agreed procurement price is Rs. 100 per kg for the top quality leaf. The National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), which has concluded an agreement with the BIB, gets a royalty of five per cent on the sale of the leaves.               A 13 year girl studying neem properties   The Bucks County Intermediate Unit holds its first annual Girls In Focus with Technology (GIFT) Day at the BCIU office center in Doylestown Borough on May 9, 2011. A 13-year old girl Tanya Kumir who is already succeeding in science, placed first in a regional science fair, studying the antibacterial properties of the neem tree, a tree that is native to India, but has been brought into the United States.

Story of JustNeem business   Peter, a biochemist by profession and Magda, a teacher, wanted to do more and put their passion to work in a meaningful way. After traveling with a Disaster Relief Organization doing work in Africa. He observed the Neem, was growing well in this part of Africa. Peter then turned to his many colleagues in biochemistry to do further research into Neem’s healing properties. All parts of the tree have been studied extensively in Neem research. The fruit, and in particular the kernel, contains oil with very high amounts of active bio-molecules. These bio-molecules hold a variety of beneficial compounds. Well-documented properties of Neem include its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral effects, as well as its role in accelerated wound healing. It is with these healing oils that JustNeem makes their products. All soaps and lotions are made with the finest cosmetic grade raw materials and contain Neem and other natural ingredients. Here is a list of the bath and body products now being produced there with Neem oil:   Soaps  -  20 different scents, all made with natural ingredients including lavender, shea butter, cranberries, Aloe Vera, ginger, vitamin E, coconut & sunflower oils  Body Lotions –  9 different scents and all contain the valuable properties of Neem and act as a natural skin protector and soothing agent.  Outdoor Body Spray  – Neem oils combined with herbal extracts provide a deterrent to biting insects without the use of chemicals. Also used to disinfect minor cuts and sooth itching skin.   Men’s Shaving Soap & After Shave  –  Contain the antiseptic and healing properties of Neem and soothes the skin after shaving.   Bath Salts & Tub Tea – Soothing to the skin.   Lip Balm  – Protects and moisturizes   Neem Cure Oil  – Neem oil has been known for centuries to help treat topical wounds, skin blemishes, burns, and infections  These products containing the Neem oils are said to also treat: * topical wounds,   * skin blemishes,  * burns,   * infections,   * eczema and psoriasis.  * athletes foot * bug bites,   * diaper rash

Natural solutions for head lice   Although head lice aren't dangerous, the critters can cause serious itching and--it turn--set kids up for skin infections that result from constant scratching.   Shampoos made with a chemical called permethrin are the standard treatment for head lice infestation. But if you'd like to steer clear of synthetic chemicals, some research suggests that certain natural remedies can help get rid of head lice. An herb long used in ayurveda, neem has been found to eliminate head lice and their eggs in several small studies. Neem paste with green neem leaves help knock out head lice when applied to the scalp.

The first de novo sequencing of neem   Bangalore-based Ganit Labs, a genome sequencing and translational genomics lab, has taken it a step further. The company announced at a press conference here on September 30, 2011 that it had “completed the first de novo sequencing of neem”. The not-for-profit, government-funded public-private initiative between Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biology (IBAB) and Strand Life Sciences, has completed the analysis of the neem plant and has unravelled its genome and coding parts.   Those involved in this study believe that by understanding the molecular architecture of the neem genome, knowledge about this traditional medicine will be enhanced. Announcing their achievement, Binay Panda, head of Ganit Labs said, “We believe our current sequencing study on neem will provide the right scientific impetus for students and young scientists in studying one of the most important plant species of our country.”  M.N. Vidyashankar, Principal Secretary, Department of Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Science and Technology, said, “The findings will be useful in education, healthcare and agriculture.” “The results of the neem project have been communicated to the State Biodiversity Board,” said Vijay Chandru, Chairman and CEO of Strand Life Sciences.    Neem tree under attack from new pest   Neem tree a panacea for many ills,is under attack from a new voracious pest that is found to devour the leaves of the wonder tree, say scientists. The pest has been identified as 'Cleora Coronaria' belonging to a family of moths and previously known as a minor pest of the neem tree, referred to as 'Arishta' or reliever of sickness in ancient Sanskrit texts. A study of the pest by zoologists of the University of Lucknow indicate it is a fast-growing insect with a voracious appetite. The newly-hatched insects were usually found clumped on the edges of neem leaves feeding in a frenzied manner, Prof Omkar and Geentanjali Mishra reported in 'Current Science'. "They moved around actively in search of food and cut leaves rhythmically in semi-circles," they said. After feeding on the neem leaves for four to five days, the insects become sluggish and burrow themselves in moist soil to transform into a moth in about a fortnight.   In their ifetime of five to seven days, the moths mate thrice with the female laying over 500 eggs of which over 95 per cent were found to be viable, the zoologists said. Two peculiar incidents of entire defoliation of mature neem trees in 2009-10 in some villages of Uttar Pradesh caught the scientists' attention. "The increasing spread of this defoliating insect on a tree believed to be invincible, led to studies about its identity, previous records, status as an occasional pest and life history," they said. They now recommend that the insect be re-classified as a major pest. Observations that locusts settled on the neem tree but did not feed on it, led to numerous studies which aided the identification of around 200 compounds responsible for various insecticide and medicinal properties.

After treating your child's head lice, make sure to wash all bed linens and recently worn clothing and soak all hair-care items in rubbing alcohol to keep the tiny bugs from coming back.   Neem can help the body fight cancer cells.   Neem leaves contain a potent compound that can help the body fight cancer cells. *T.V. Jayan* reports that scientists in Calcutta have traced just how it works The CNCI scientists, led by Rathindranath Baral, took a major stride towards developing a potential anticancer drug when they isolated from neem leaves a compound which can buck up the immune system's fight against the rogue cells.        Purifying water  Boil a concoction of neem leaves (about 50 leaves in two litres of water) till the leaves are soft and discoloured, and the water turns green. Strain and store in a bottle. Add about 100 ml of this to your bath water to rid the skin of infections, acne and white heads.

References   1.Kausik Biswas, Ishita Chattopadhyay, Ranajit K.Banerjee and Uday Bandyopadhyay. "Biological activities and medicinal properties of neem (Azadirachta indica) 2. Ganguli, S. "Neem: A therapeutic for all seasons" 3. Zillur Rahman and M. Shamim Jairajpuri. Neem in Unani Medicine. 4. Neem Foundation <http://www.neemfoundation.org/>  . 5. Biological activities and medicinal properties of neem (Azadirachta indica): Kausik Biswas, Ishita Chattopadhyay, Ranajit K. Banerjee  and Uday Bandyopadhyay 6. Medicinal properties of Neem: New Findings: D.P. Agrawal 7. EFFECT OF AZADIRACHTA INDICA (NEEM) ON THE GROWTH PATTERN OF DERMATOPHYTES:  V Natarajan et al / Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology 8. Effects of Azadirachta indica extract on gastric ulceration and acid secretion in rats: Yinusa Raji et al - Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 90, Issue 1,January 2004 9. Acute toxicity study of the oil from Azadirachta indica seed (neem oil): Gandhi M et al- Ethnopharmacol. 1988 10. Antibacterial Effects of Crude A indicaq Neem Bark Extract on Streptococcus sobrinus: :Mohashine Bhuiyan MD et al - Dept of Pedia Dentistry, Okayama, Japan 11.Sterility effects of Neem (Azadirachta indica) extract on male rat :Masoumeh Mahmoudi Meymand et al - Journal of Reproduction and Infertility • Volume 3, Issue 2, Year 2002 12. Larvicidal effects of a neem (Azadirachta indica) oil formulation on the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae: Fredros O Okumu, Bart GJ Knols and Ulrike Fillinger - Malaria Journal 2007 13. Antifungal activities of neem (Azadirachta indica) seed kernel extracts on postharvest diseases in fruits Jingfa Wang, Jian Li, Jiankang Cao and Weibo Jiang - African Journal of Microbiology Research Vol. 4 14. Effect of Azadirachta indica leaf extract on serum lipid profile changes in normal and streptozotocin induced diabetic rats R.R. Chattopadhyay* and M. Bandyopadhyay - African Journal of Biomedical Research, Vol 8

New Samvat  The traditional New Year has to be celebrated by getting up early,by eating neem leaves, by worshipping, having an oil bath, decorating the front door with flowers, rangoli and toran so that the New Year is happy On this day Creator Brahma created this Universe.The New Year, new month and new day for Hindus falls on Chaitra Shukla Pratipada, first day of bright fortnight of Chaitra month. It is called Gudipadwa in Maharashtra, Navraatri in North, Ugadi in South. It is auspicious to listen to the almanac so that one gets Lakshmi, longevity, success and one is cured of diseases and sins.