Monday, September 28, 2009

Neem tree and its uses


Neem is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 15-20 m (about 50-65 feet), rarely to 35-40 m (115-131 feet). It is evergreen, is a tree in the mahogany family Meliaceae. It is one of two species in the genus Azadirachta, but in severe drought it may shed most or nearly all of its leaves. The branches are wide spread. The fairly dense crown is roundish or oval and may reach the diameter of 15-20 m in old, free-standing specimens.

Uses
Neem parts are widely used in veterinary medicine and helps to cure different animal diseases. Neem is said to have anti viral properties, which in turn helps to cure many animal diseases. Neem is also used as an animal feed because it contains significant amount of protein, minerals except zinc, carotene etc. Neem leaf extracts are used by manufacturers in making poultry immuno stimulants.

Neem is being used to manufacture what is known as the natural or bio insecticide, that are environmental friendly and do not have any toxic effects on plants and soil. Neem insecticide are used to protect both food as well as cash crops like rice, pulses, cotton, oils seeds etc. Great for use on all crops, trees, plants, flowers, fruits, veggies round the home as well as organic and commercial growers. Active ingredient Azadirachtin, found in neem tree, acts as an insect repellent and insect feeding inhibitor, thereby protecting the plants. This ingredient belongs to an organic molecule class called tetranortriterpenoids. It is similar in structure to insect hormones called "ecdysones," which control the process of metamorphosis as the insects pass from larva to pupa to adult.

Uses of Neem Oil in Various Industries
Cosmetic Industry : Neem bark, seed and leaf oil is being increasingly used in manufacturing a large number of skin products, body lotions, beauty care facial packs in combination with other natural ingredients. The herbal cosmetic industry is in the boom stage, this is an open invitation for the neem oil manufacturers to produce high quality neem oil for use in the cosmetic industry, all around the globe.
Agricultural Industry : The principle ingredient in Azadirachtin found naturally in neem seed oil is being used the world over for manufacturing :

Herbal Medicine Industry : Neem seed, leaf and bark oil is used to manufacture herbal medicines. It can be used as raw neem oil, oil extract to be used in wide medicinal applications.
Natural Pesticide
Natural Insecticide
Natural Fungicide

Parts of Neem Used to Manufacture Soap
Neem leaf extract
Neem oil
Neem Bark extract

There has been a long history of use of plants to maintain oral hygiene and cure periodontal diseases. Traditionally, neem twigs were used in raw form to clean teeth and maintain oral hygiene. The anti bacterial property of neem helps to fight germs and prevent cavity. It is being used by leading manufacturers all over the world to make herbal toothpastes, tooth powders, mouth wash and other dental hygiene products.

Neem extracts are used as active ingredients by FMCG companies and herbal product companies as they have anti bacterial properties and also have no side effects.

Neem oil is also used on a commercial basis to manufacture and export oral care products. Neem is sometimes also blended with other herbs and natural products in medicated toothpastes and powders to ensure maximum efficacy.

Neen in production of soap
Neem finds Neem tree and its derivatives are used to manufacture neem based soaps. Neem has antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral properties which helps to keep the skin soft and supple, helps to protect the skin from eczema, infections, acne and nourishes it. Neem soap is also recommended by doctors to prevent and treat acne. These soap bars are vegetable based and contain pure essential oils to rejuvenate and soothens the skin. Neem soaps are beneficial for super sensitive skins. These premium 100% natural soaps are animal fat free and do not make use of any chemical compounds or artificial fragrances. Leading FMCG companies are venturing into and coming out with neem soaps to cater to the ever increasing demand of neem based soap.

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