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What is a Neem Tree?

Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen

The neem tree, known scientifically as Azadirachta indica , is a very tall evergreen tree that is related to mahogany and native to India and other parts of southeast Asia. Due to the tree’s ability to thrive in tropical or arid (desert) climates, it is now grown in many locations, and its ability to grow quickly has been suggested as a possible solution for heavily deforested areas. Additionally, almost every part of the tree has been used by local populations as medicine, pesticide or in food products, and there is evidence of great benefit from these trees.

One of the advantages of the neem tree is its drought resistance, but it does tend to lose most of its leaves in hot and dry weather. However the tree still can grow quickly and at full height these trees can be up to 65 feet (19.81 m) tall, and sometimes twice this high. Neems produce both flowers and fruit, which slightly resemble olives, and this can occasionally cause people to mistake the neem tree with the chinaberry tree. This can be a tragic mistake if chinaberry tree products are used since they are poisonous.

The neem tree is native to India and other areas of southeast Asia.
The neem tree is native to India and other areas of southeast Asia.

Many may find the thought of growing a neem tree very attractive because of its features, but in many places around the world, it won’t grow well. It needs a very warm climate, especially when young, to thrive. Certain parts of the US like some of the deep Southern US may be suited for growing these plants. In most of the Northern US the climate is simply too cold for the trees to thrive.

Neem tree oil is used in some acne treatments.
Neem tree oil is used in some acne treatments.

There is a potential solution. Given enough light and climate control people can grow a neem tree as a houseplant. It will typically not fruit because it is indoors, but it will be limited in size depending on size of pot used. People can order small trees, seedlings or seeds for this purpose.

A neem tree typically isn’t just grown for decoration in India. The plants serve many important purposes. Oil from the tree can be found in Indian products like soap or it may be used to treat conditions like acne.

Products from A. indica also prove a good insect repellent or pesticide, and trees may be planted to control certain dangerous pests. There’s been some evidence that byproducts in neem leaves may have beneficial effects on those with diabetes, and a paste of the leaves can again be used for acne control. Even the roots were viewed as an important fever reducer in past times, and twigs of the neem have been used as toothbrushes.

As beneficial as neem trees may appear, gardeners need to beware that where the trees thrive, they may overtake other plantings. The trees are considered an aggressive and invasive plant, and any seeds of the tree should be collected. Gardeners should also pull any sprouts of new trees because of their tendency to easily grow.

Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen

Tricia has a Literature degree from Sonoma State University and has been a frequent HomeQuestionsAnswered contributor for many years. She is especially passionate about reading and writing, although her other interests include medicine, art, film, history, politics, ethics, and religion. Tricia lives in Northern California and is currently working on her first novel.

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Tricia Christensen
Tricia Christensen

Tricia has a Literature degree from Sonoma State University and has been a frequent HomeQuestionsAnswered contributor for many years. She is especially passionate about reading and writing, although her other interests include medicine, art, film, history, politics, ethics, and religion. Tricia lives in Northern California and is currently working on her first novel.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

Feryll

If you aren't happy with your current toothbrush and toothpaste then here's something you might want to give a try. I have read that the twigs from the neem tree are used by some people like a toothbrush. They brush their teeth with the twigs and the oil from the tree is released during the brushing.

The oil is a good protection against oral disease and improves dental hygiene. I would have never thought of that, but it is interesting. However, I have tried shampoos with neem tree oil and in my experience they are good for controlling dandruff.

Laotionne

The article talks about how the neem tree oil can be used to treat acne. A friend told me that she uses the oil and it works well. I have also read that there are many other uses for the neem tree. In fact, every part of the tree is said to have some type of medicinal value.

The gum from neem trees can be used to make foods that help keep the blood levels under control. This is a good remedy for diabetics. Neem is also used to purify the blood in general. It is supposed to remove toxins that can lead to disease.

Sporkasia

Until five to ten years ago I had only read about neem trees. I had no idea that they could be grown in parts of the United States, including the part of the country where I live. I am pleased to report that with a little tender love and care the trees can thrive and grow very quickly.

I started my trees from seedlings. I was surprised at how developed the roots of the plants were at such a young age. Now that the seedlings have matured, they are very attractive trees and provide us with greenery and shade throughout the year.

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    • The neem tree is native to India and other areas of southeast Asia.
      By: Unclesam
      The neem tree is native to India and other areas of southeast Asia.
    • Neem tree oil is used in some acne treatments.
      By: Ocskay Bence
      Neem tree oil is used in some acne treatments.