Introduction:

Neem is a tree which finds a unique place in the traditional Indian System of Medicine. It has been studied extensively for its clinical properties.

The tender shoots of the neem tree are also eaten as a vegetable in South Asia (India) and South-East Asia (Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam).

Properties:

1. Neem has anti-septic property. It inhibits the microbial growth. A decoction prepared from neem leaves is commonly used as a disinfectant in Indian systems of medicine to wash wounds and skin infections. It is also ingested to get rid of itching and burning sensations.

2. Neem twigs have been used for brushing teeth in India – perhaps one of the earliest and most effective forms of dental care.

3. Oil extracted from neem seeds has also got anti-septic properties and is used in the treatment of skin infections. It is deemed particularly effective in the treatment of scabies, although only preliminary scientific proof exists. Neem oil is also used in the cosmetics (soap, shampoo, balms and creams).

4. Bitter in taste, neem leaves are astringent. Eating 2-3 neem leaves a day is believed to purify blood and build up resistance to diseases.

5. The bark of the stem is used in the treatment of eye disorders, ulcers, fevers, vomiting, diabetes, leprosy, intestinal worms, skin diseases, insect bites, loss of appetite, cough, etc.

6. There is also anecdotal evidence that it is effective in the treatment of head lice infestations.

7. Besides its use in traditional Indian medicine, the neem tree is of great importance for its anti-desertification properties and possibly as a good carbon dioxide sink.

Patent Controversy:

In 1995 the European Patent Office (EPO) granted a patent on an anti-fungal product, derived from neem to the US Department of Agriculture and multi-national WR Grace. The Indian government challenged the patent grant claiming that the process in the patent had actually been in use in India for over 2000 years.

In 2000 the EPO ruled in India's favor but WR Grace appealed claiming that prior art about the product had never been published in a scientific journal. The appeal was lost on 8 March 2005 and the EPO revoked the issued patent. Other aspects of neem use continue to be patented.