Neem

The bitter boon
Neem falls under the category of bitter tonics in herbal medicine – the strongest medicine to dispel heat, fire, fever and cleanse the body of toxins which have entered the tissues. Neem is an antipyretic. It is known to bring down fevers and rid the body of the infection, enhancing the process of recovery. It is an excellent antiseptic and disinfectant ideal for abrasions and wounds. Neem attacks skin problems with remarkable alacrity and is known to bring rashes, acne, eczema and dandruff under control.Neem is an effective astringent and helps prevent diseases of the gums and the mouth. It is rich in anti-inflammatory agents that are effective against joint and muscle pain. Neem face packs make the skin feel invigorated and fresh. Used as a conditioner, it gives lustre and body to the hair. In fact, neem is packed with a world of goodness that spells natural body care.
The bitter boon
To clear coughs and colds:Grind dry neem leaves to a powder. Mix with honey and administer a dosage of 1 gm every morning and night.Boil a fistful of fresh neem leaves or put a drop of neem oil in boiling water and inhale the steam.
Set sprains and bruises right:Make a paste of fresh neem leaves. Warm and soak a piece of muslin in it and wrap around the affected area. Change the bandage after a couple of hours.
Subdue fevers:Prepare neem tea by boiling 5-6 fresh neem leaves in a cup of water. Strain and drink the solution, twice a day.
Cure for hypertension:Extract neem juice by grinding tender neem leaves and straining through a muslin cloth. Add some mishri ('kalkand') to it and drink a tablespoon of the syrup twice a day.
High Blood Sugar:Drink one tablespoon of neem leaf juice after waking up in the morning, on an empty stomach for 90 days without a break.
Fresh breath and healthy gums:Add 5 gm. neem root to two cups of water. Boil till it gets reduced to half in quantity. Gargle using this decoction. Or chew six fresh neem leaves after each meal.
For good looking skin:Massage your body with neem oil. Crush fresh neem leaves and add to the bathing water.Add half a teaspoon of neem leaf powder to two tablespoons of multani mitti. Use this mixture as a face pack.