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Dòngòyárò
Neem
Azadirachta indica
The famous bitter bark and leaf decoction taken across Nigeria during fever seasons and used widely on the skin.
Cautions
- Neem oil and strong extracts are toxic to infants and children — never give internally to a child
- Can cause liver damage in high or prolonged doses
- Avoid in pregnancy and when trying to conceive
- Confirmed malaria needs tested medical treatment — neem is not a substitute
Known interactions: Antidiabetic drugs, Immunosuppressants, Lithium
Nutritional value
- Not nutritional — a strong medicinal bitter
Traditional healing uses
- Bark and leaf decoction (agbo) used traditionally during malaria fevers
- Leaf wash for rashes, boils and scalp problems
- Chewing stick for gum and tooth care
Preparation
- Weak leaf infusion, short courses only
- External wash: leaves boiled, cooled and used on the skin
Spiritual & cultural meaning
Neem is a purifying tree, planted for protection and shade; its leaves are used in cleansing baths across West Africa and South Asia.
Shared as cultural tradition, not as a medical claim.
This profile supports — and does not replace — medical care. Speak with a health worker before combining herbs with medicine, in pregnancy, or for a child.