In Sanskrit, the tree is called Sarva roga nivarini which means "Cures all diseases". Traditional use of the Neem tree includes:
- The seeds contain oil and are used as an ingredient in shampoo. The oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It is used on the skin against psoriasis. Indian women have used the oil as contraception by putting it in their vagina where it has a spermatocidal effect. The Indian agriculture use the Neem oil as a natural pesticide.
- The leaves have detoxicating and blood cleansing effects. They are squeezed of juice and are used externally against wounds, boils, or eczemas. Extracts made from leaves have a tradition as a medicine against malaria, gastric ulcers, and intestinal worms.
- The flowers are used as a cough medicine and for regulating the body temperature.
- Neem twigs are used locally in India and Africa for cleaning teeth and preventing periodontal disease.
