Home Blog The Village Pharmacy: The Neem or Tea Tree The Village Pharmacy: The Neem or Tea Tree by Brent May June 25, 2019 by Brent May 7.4K Neem (Azadirachta indica) or “tea tree” is a medicinal tree found in several regions of Mexico and locally in Huatulco. The Neem tree is originally from India and Burma and was introduced in Mexico in tropical and subtropical areas. It is an evergreen member of the Mahogany tree family Meliaceae. According to ancient texts, the tree has been used for at least 4500 years to support healing. The Village Pharmacy Surprisingly, Neem is a fast-growing tree that can reach 15 to 20 meters high. It can live up to 200 years and requires little water, thriving in drought areas. The healing and medicinal properties of the Neem have been known for many years in traditional medicine. In fact, people who live in rural areas still call the Neem tree “the village pharmacy”. You can use all of the parts of the tree for different healing purposes. Internal and External Uses Modern scientists have found many uses for this tree. The seeds, bark and leaves are compounds with antiseptic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer and anti-fungal uses. From compresses to poultices to teas to tinctures, Neem can be taken in a variety of ways both internally and externally. The seeds and fruits can be used to make mosquito repellent and antiseptic oil. Neem oil or soap can soothe and lubricate the skin. Neem deodorant helps with malodorous sweat. External uses also include application to the skin for eczema, acne and psoriasis, to the nails to treat fungus, and to the hair and scalp. Additionally, you can apply Neem oil to wounds to promote healing. Because of Neem’s antibacterial properties, you can treat other skin conditions such as warts, chicken pox, and athlete’s foot. In addition, you can use Neem oil as a natural skin moisturizer. Containing Vitamin E, Neem oil repairs damaged skin. Internally, Neem is reputed to have a cleansing and detoxifying effect on the blood, boosts the immune system, supports healthy blood sugar levels, balances the metabolism and GI tract, and supports clear lungs. Neem Tea Especially important, you can make your own Neem tea. First, boil water and pour over a cup which includes a few Neem leaves. Let it steep for about 5 minutes. And remove the leaves. Lastly, you can add honey and/or lemon if necessary. This tea is good for oral hygiene, indigestión and constipation. It can also be used for treatment of psoriasis, diabetes, cancer, herpes, allergies, ulcers, hepatitis, fungi, and malaria. Local Neem Products You can find a variety of products derived from the Neem Tree locally in Huatulco. You can find Neem leaf tinctures at the market. The tinctures provide liver support and can aid in digestion, healthy blood glucose levels and promote hair and skin health from the inside out. Finally, you can also find a variety of Neem essential oils and creams. Pick some up on your next trip to the market and try it for yourself! 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail Brent May Brent May is the GM and Founder of Mexico Living. He is highly motivated and strives for excellence in order to provide the best service possible for foreigners buying property in Mexico. He understands some of the frustrations people may have while searching for a property in paradise and has learned from his own experiences buying and living in Mexico. Brent and his wife are grateful for the opportunities they have and to be able to live in a place most people vacation in. Brent's extensive knowledge and experience in the buying process will leave you at ease while buying property in Mexico. previous post Huatulco’s Economic Growth next post Long Overdue Oaxaca Highways Will Be Completed: AMLO You may also like Huatulco vs Puerto Escondido: Which Beach Town is... February 10, 2025 7 Reasons to Visit Mexico: Why It Should... February 10, 2025 Breaking Down Average Condo Fees in Mexico: What... February 8, 2025 Preparing for Mexican Citizenship: Tips for Passing the... February 8, 2025 Selling Inherited Property in Mexico: A Step-by-Step Guide February 8, 2025 Why Luxury Assisted Living in Mexico is Gaining... February 3, 2025 Expats’ Guide to Finding and Employing a Nanny... February 3, 2025 Understanding the Mexican Education System: A Guide for... February 3, 2025 Living History: Restoring and Maintaining a Historic Home... January 27, 2025 Exploring the Rise of Gated Communities in Mexico:... January 27, 2025 1 comment Anna October 4, 2021 - 12:50 pm Hi! Neem and tea tree are actually totally different plants! Be careful about claiming they’re the same, they really aren’t. Lots of people are allergic or sensitive to tea tree but fine with neem. Reply Leave a Comment Cancel Reply Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.