History of Neem

Neem history and use

Indian culture dating back 4000 years makes reference to using the leaves, fruit and bark of the Neem tree for reputedly easing a variety of human ailments. The earliest Sanskrit writings outline its uses, which have been revered by Ayurvedic and Unani practitioners. The time honoured title 'Villlage Pharmacy' has been earned by virtue of its amazing properties.

In 1922 a British archeologist discovered the 5000 year old Indus Valley site in North Western India (now Pakistan), where the Harappan civilization has been extensively studied. Clay pots were found containing medicinal herbs, most prominently Azadirachta indica or 'Neem'. The early systems of use, though simple, have stood the test of time - and are still used today in many parts of rural India.

Neem is known by different names in different parts of the world: generally known as Neem, Nimba, Kohomba or Kohumba, Nim and Margosa, in Sanscrit it is also known as Arishta, and minbaka; in Hindi, we have nim, nimb, bal-nimb and nind as well as neem. In Arabic, it is azad-darakhul-hind and in Burma, tamaka, tama and tamabin. Other names include: Azadirac de 1′Inde, margosier, margousier, Grossblaettiger zedrach, Indischer zedrach.

In Africa, we have (Digo) Muarubaini; Mwarobaini, Mkilifi; (Giriama) Mkilifi; (Luhya) Mwarubaini; (Sanya): Mklifi; (Somali) Get kharerow; (Swahili) Mkilifi, Mwarubaini.