NeemNimba
Pacifies Pitta and Kapha; aggravates Vata if overused.
Azadirachta indica · Bitter · Cooling
What Ayurveda says
Pacifies Pitta and Kapha; aggravates Vata if overused.
Traditional uses
- ·Acne, eczema, psoriasis
- ·Blood purification
- ·Antimicrobial support
- ·Diabetes management
How it is taken
300–600 mg capsules daily for short courses (2–4 weeks). Topical oil for skin (diluted).
Avoid in
- ✕Pregnancy — abortifacient; classical contraindication
- ✕Active conception attempts (male and female) — documented antifertility action
- ✕Infants and small children — neem seed oil has caused fatal Reye-like syndrome
- ✕Recent organ transplant — immunostimulant
- ✕Severe Vata depletion, low body weight, dry constitutions
- ✕Liver disease — case reports of hepatotoxicity
- ✕Hypoglycemia or on diabetes medication without monitoring
Allergies
Belongs to the Meliaceae family. Topical contact dermatitis is common; patch-test first. Oral allergy with swelling is rare but documented.
Classical alternatives
For chronic skin conditions in Vata or pregnant patients, Manjistha (Rubia cordifolia) and Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus) purify blood without depleting tissues.
When to see a doctor
Persistent or severe symptoms, pregnancy, children under 12, anyone on prescription medication, and any new or worsening condition should be reviewed by a qualified clinician (GP or vaidya) before starting Neem. Highly bitter and cold; depletes ojas with long-term use. Hepatotoxicity reported with neem seed oil and high internal doses.
Citations & sources
The information presented here is for educational and general wellbeing purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, prescription, treatment or a cure for any condition, and is not a substitute for conventional medical care.
Ayurvedic herbs and formulations contain potent substances that can interact with medications and may be unsafe for certain conditions. Always consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional before use. Ayurveda is classified as a complementary therapy in the UK and complements, rather than replaces, conventional treatment. We do not operate as registered medical doctors. Stop immediately and seek care if any symptom worsens; in an emergency call 999 or NHS 111.