Neem Tree (Mwarobaini) – 40 Health Benefits, Uses, & Farming Guide
- BeyondForest
- Jun 23
- 5 min read
Updated: Sep 18
5.)Neem Tree Commercial & Home Products
6.)FAQs About Neem Tree
The Neem tree, locally known as Mwarobaini in Swahili, is one of the most respected medicinal trees in Africa and Asia, earning the nickname “the tree of forty cures.” Its scientific name is Azadirachta indica, and it belongs to the Meliaceae family.
Image of a Neem Tree by mama_g_herbal_life on IG
This evergreen tree can grow up to 15–20 meters tall, with dark green serrated leaves, fragrant white flowers, and small olive-like fruits. Neem thrives in hot, arid, and semi-arid regions, making it ideal for many parts of Kenya.
Neem trees can live for over 200 years, making them long-lasting and resilient.
Beyond medicine, the tree is valued for shade, soil conservation, and timber.
Mwarobaini is celebrated for its powerful medicinal and agricultural properties. Almost every part of the tree—leaves, bark, seeds, flowers, and oil—has a use. Traditionally, its leaves are boiled to make herbal tea used to treat malaria, fevers, stomach upsets, and skin rashes.
Having a bath steeped with Neem leaves kept skin supple and healthy. Neem leaf powder or crushed leaves incorporated into their face packs provided emollient and anti-aging action.
Image of Neem tree Popularly known as (Dogonyaro)
Neem oil is prized for its antibacterial, antifungal, and insect-repelling properties, while neem cake (the by-product of oil extraction) is used as an organic fertilizer and pesticide.
Image of a Neem Tree by Just Neem on IG
The history of the Neem tree can be traced back to the ancient civilizations in India. The earliest indication of the Neem tree being used for its medicinal properties in households began nearly 5000 years ago. Neem is said to have been widely used in traditional Indian medicine like Ayurveda and is also mentioned in earliest Indian scriptures of medicine- the Charak Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.
The antiseptic properties of Neem leaf extracts helped in controlling pimples and acne.
Health & Medicinal Uses of Neem Tree
Image of Mwarobaini Leaves by Planty Tech Kenya
The Neem tree (Azadirachta indica), or Mwarobaini, is widely regarded as a natural pharmacy thanks to its extraordinary medicinal properties. In Swahili, “Mwarobaini” literally means “forty cures,” a name earned because almost every part of the tree—leaves, bark, seeds, flowers, and oil—can be used to treat numerous ailments.
vibrant green Neem Tree Seedlings by Planty Tech
Neem leaves are among the most commonly used parts. They are boiled to make a bitter herbal tea traditionally taken to manage malaria, typhoid, fever, stomach upset, and intestinal worms. The tea is also known to help purify the blood and boost immunity, making it popular as a natural detox drink. Fresh leaves or neem paste can be applied directly to the skin to treat acne, eczema, rashes, fungal infections, and even chickenpox sores, thanks to their antibacterial and antifungal properties.
However, like all potent herbs, neem should be used carefully—especially in high doses or during pregnancy—under proper guidance.
Image of Neem Tree Product by foodforthesoul.opare
Neem bark and seeds are used for oral health, often chewed as a natural toothbrush (known as chewing sticks or “mswaki”) to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Neem oil, extracted from the seeds, is one of the most potent natural insect repellents, effective against lice, ticks, and mosquitoes.
Image post of Mwarobaini Powder by Maasai Muuza Dawa
Scientific studies have shown neem extracts possess antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This makes neem a valuable ally in controlling skin conditions, regulating blood sugar levels, and supporting overall wellness.
Neem for Livestock & Poultry
For poultry, neem leaves are often added to drinking water or feed in small amounts as a natural dewormer, helping to control internal parasites like roundworms. Crushed neem leaves or neem extract can also be sprayed in poultry houses to repel lice, fleas, mites, and mosquitoes, reducing stress and improving productivity.
Image of a Neem Tree by 4seasonsarborscapes on IG
In cattle, goats, and sheep, neem oil can be diluted and applied on the skin to keep ticks, fleas, and flies away. Neem seed cake, the by-product of oil extraction, can be mixed with feed to improve digestion and reduce worm infestations. Its antifungal and antibacterial properties also help prevent hoof rot and skin infections.
Neem Tree Agriculture & Pest Control
Neem (Mwarobaini) is one of the most effective natural solutions for sustainable farming. Farmers use neem oil and neem seed extracts as organic pesticides to control over 200 types of pests, including aphids, whiteflies, caterpillars, and locusts, without harming beneficial insects like bees. Neem cake, the residue after oil extraction, is applied to the soil to improve fertility and act as a natural nematicide, reducing root-knot worms.
Farmers from Makindu to Meru are discovering that neem sprays chase away pests without harming the soil. It’s nature’s gift for cleaner food and healthier harvests
Image of a Neem Tree Seedling for sale by Plantech Kenya LTD
Its slow-release nutrients enrich the soil, supporting healthier crops. Neem-based pest control is eco-friendly, non-toxic, and helps reduce reliance on harmful synthetic chemicals, making it ideal for organic farming systems.
Neem Tree Commercial & Home Products
Neem twigs are traditionally used as natural toothbrushes due to their antimicrobial properties. - captain Green Ke
Neem (Mwarobaini) has inspired a wide range of commercial and homemade products due to its medicinal and insect-repelling properties. Popular neem products include neem soap for acne and skin care, neem toothpaste for gum health, and neem hair oil to combat dandruff and promote hair growth.
Neem oil is also sold as a natural pesticide for home gardens. In rural areas, people make neem leaf tea, chewing sticks (mswaki), and skin pastes at home.
That condition on they don't tolerate cold and waterlogged soils noticed that, past season when the rain persistent, my neems started weathering from the shoots, they weren't growing anymore. Got me scared but now they are doing well. -Protocol Kalonzo
FAQs About Neem Tree
What is the English name for Mwarubaini?
The English name for Mwarubaini is Neem Tree, scientifically known as Azadirachta indica
Public announcement of abortional uses of medicinal plants to the whole world is a medical crime which you should skip. Obey medical ethics and integrity plz. -Andrew Ongenga
What are the benefits of drinking boiled neem?
Drinking neem leaf tea helps detoxify the blood, boost immunity, manage fever, fight intestinal worms, and support skin health.
Image of Neem Seedling for Sale by Landscaper Maggie
What diseases does neem cure?
Neem helps manage malaria, typhoid, skin infections, diabetes (by lowering blood sugar), and intestinal worms, but it should complement—not replace—medical treatment.
In some part of Nigeria and CameroonThey call it Dogo Yarow which when translated means, TALL CHILD or TALL PIKIN in Pidgin English -Mtu Mweusi
Is neem oil safe for human skin?
Yes, neem oil is generally safe for topical use and helps treat acne, eczema, and fungal infections. Always dilute with a carrier oil and do a patch test.
Is neem good for the kidneys?
Neem supports detoxification and may help kidney function indirectly, but it should be used in moderation. Overuse can stress the liver and kidneys.
Is neem oil edible?
Neem oil is toxic if swallowed and should not be used for cooking or taken internally. It is for external and agricultural use only.
Comments