Neem Oil
निम्बतैलम्
Neem oil (Nimba Taila) is bitter and pungent in taste, cold in potency. It is one of the most important oils for skin diseases (Kushtha), parasitic conditions (Krimi), itching (Kandu), and wound healing (Vrana Ropana). It pacifies Pitta dosha and has strong antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is used primarily externally for various skin conditions, scalp problems, and as an insect repellent. Internally, it can be used in very small doses for specific conditions. Verses: 17-18.
What is Neem Oil (Nimba Taila / निम्बतैल)?
Neem oil (Nimba Taila) is bitter and pungent in taste, cold in potency. It is one of the most important oils for skin diseases (Kushtha), parasitic conditions (Krimi), itching (Kandu), and wound healing (Vrana Ropana). It pacifies Pitta dosha and has strong antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is used primarily externally for various skin conditions, scalp problems, and as an insect repellent. Internally, it can be used in very small doses for specific conditions. Verses: 17-18.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 19
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Kushthahara (anti-dermatosis)
- Krimighna (anthelmintic)
- Kandughna (anti-pruritic)
- Pitta-shamaka (pacifies Pitta)
- Vranaropaka (wound-healing)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 19
References in Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan
Nimbi Taila – (Neem oil) :ना यु णं न बजं त तं कृ मकु ठकफ णुत ् ॥ ६० ॥ Neem oil – is not very hot (slightly hot) in potency, bitter, anti microbial, useful in skin diseases and mitigates Kapha.
— Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
Source: Astanga Hridaya Sutrasthan, Drava Vigyaniya Drinkables
References in Sharangadhara Samhita
That which penetrates the subtle channels (Sukshma-chhidra) of the body is called Sukshma (subtle/penetrating), like Saindhava (rock salt), honey, Nimba taila (neem oil), and substances born of Eru (castor).
— Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 4: Dipana-Pachana Adikathanam (Digestive Actions etc.)
Source: Sharangadhara Samhita, Purva Khanda, Chapter 4: Dipana-Pachana Adikathanam (Digestive Actions etc.)
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