Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

The use of neem tree (Azadirachta indica) for the treatment and prevention of parasitic infections is rooted primarily in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda and other South Asian healing systems. For centuries, various parts of the neem tree—especially its leaves, bark, and oil—have been employed to address a range of internal and external parasites, including intestinal worms, lice, and mites. Neem is thought to possess antiparasitic properties due to its rich content of bioactive compounds such as azadirachtin, nimbin, and salannin.

Scientific studies have provided some validation for neem’s antiparasitic activity, especially in vitro and animal models. Neem extracts have demonstrated efficacy against certain intestinal worms (helminths) and ectoparasites (such as lice and mites) in preliminary laboratory studies. For example, neem leaf and seed extracts have shown anthelmintic effects in animal models, and neem oil is widely used as a topical agent for lice and scabies in traditional contexts. However, robust clinical trials in humans remain limited, and most evidence is anecdotal or derived from traditional practices.

Overall, neem’s use for parasites is well established in traditional systems, supported by a moderate amount of preclinical scientific evidence, but lacks strong, large-scale clinical validation in humans. Thus, it is considered “traditional” with a moderate (3/5) evidence rating.

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