Herbs are a powerful way to support our well-being while preventing illness and disease. One of the critical pillars of Ayurveda, herbs are used to promote wellness and treat doshic imbalances. There are a wide variety of powerful herbs that can assist the health of our minds and bodies in Ayurvedic tradition.

Bennd's textiles are infused with our unique blend of 22 medicinal Ayurvedic herbs to support you as you practice. We are committed to creating sustainable and healing fabrics for your yoga and meditation journey. Part of this is providing education on the herbs that we use so you can understand their applications and benefits.

Neem, next up in our herb blog series- The Powerful Herbs Behind Bennd's Exclusive Formula, where we highlight different herbal power-houses that we use throughout our brand. Let's dive into it.

Background

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a fast-growing tree in the mahogany family that thrives in tropical regions, including India. Neem is native to the Indian subcontinent and dry areas throughout South Asia. It has been introduced to parts of Africa, the Caribbean, and numerous South and Central American counties. The plant has long been used in Ayurvedic and folk medicines. It is also used in cosmetics and organic farming applications as a natural pesticide. The leaves of neem are used for medicinal purposes, including supplements, oils, and other neem products. In terms of Ayurvedic energetics, neem is bitter in taste, cooling in action, and has a pungent post-digestive effect.

Benefits 

Traditionally neem has been used to purify the blood, cleanse the liver, and support the immune system. It also is used to support healthy skin and healthy blood glucose levels. Because of its bitter taste and cooling properties, neem is commonly used to balance excess Kapha and Pitta. Skin issues such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis are widely associated with a pitta or Kapha imbalance. Neem is effective in reducing symptoms of such skin issues. It also has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties, is commonly used to treat dandruff, and is included in some Ayurvedic toothpaste and mouthwashes. 

How to use 

Neem can be used both internally and topically, depending on your purpose for taking it. There are neem capsules and powders that you can take orally. Taking neem orally is recommended to pacify excess Pitta and Kapha, detox the blood and the liver, and promote healthy skin from the inside out. With guidance from an Ayurvedic practitioner, Capsules are recommended to be taken 1-2 times daily, and powder can be taken starting at a teaspoon a day mixed into hot water or milk. 
There are a lot of Neem products that can be used topically. Neem is often applied to areas of psoriasis, acne, athlete's foot, and other skin conditions in the form of lotions, salves, or oils. Neem shampoos and hair powders can help treat dandruff and an itchy or irritated scalp. It can also be used to maintain oral hygiene in toothpaste, powders, and mouthwash. 

Contraindications

Like all herbs, medication, and supplements, neem should be consumed under the supervision of an Ayurvedic practitioner or health care professional. Neem is a safe and highly beneficial herb but can have contraindications for some. You should avoid neem if you are pregnant, hypoglycemic, have extreme fatigue, or emaciation. You should also avoid neem if you have high Vata, as neem's cooling and bitter properties can imbalance Vata even further. Neem used topically, however, is safe for all ages and doshas.

Herbs offer us the opportunity to heal and improve our health using the power of nature. We are grateful for the healing power of Ayurveda and for providing intentional yoga mats that utilize these traditional medicines to support your practice and body.