Mahaneem

(Persian Lilac)
Sanskrit: महानिम्ब • Botanical: Melia azedarach Linn.

Mahaneem (Melia azedarach), also called Bakayan or Persian Lilac, is distinguished from the common Neem by its larger leaves and different fruit structure. The text notes that while the small Neem is Sheeta Virya (cold potency), Mahaneem is Ushna Virya (hot potency). It shares many properties with Neem including being bitter, anti-parasitic, and useful in skin diseases. However, it has a more pronounced purgative action. The fruits are used as beads for garlands (hence 'Bead Tree'). The bark contains the alkaloid Margosine which has anti-parasitic properties.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Margosine, Vanillic acid, Resin, Tannin
Also Known As
English: Persian Lilac, The Bead Tree
Sanskrit: महानिम्ब, विषमुष्टिक, महातिक्त
Hindi: बकायन, द्रेक

What is Mahaneem / Great Neem (महानिम्ब / बकायन)?

Mahaneem (Melia azedarach), also called Bakayan or Persian Lilac, is distinguished from the common Neem by its larger leaves and different fruit structure. The text notes that while the small Neem is Sheeta Virya (cold potency), Mahaneem is Ushna Virya (hot potency). It shares many properties with Neem including being bitter, anti-parasitic, and useful in skin diseases. However, it has a more pronounced purgative action. The fruits are used as beads for garlands (hence 'Bead Tree'). The bark contains the alkaloid Margosine which has anti-parasitic properties.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Kusthaghna (anti-dermatosis)
  • Virechana (purgative)
  • Vishaghna (anti-toxic)
  • Jvarghna (antipyretic)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 3

Mahaneem by Condition

Explore how Mahaneem is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Mahaneem for Male Sexual Health

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.