The people of India have long revered the neem tree (Azadirachta indica). For centuries, millions have cleaned their teeth with neem twigs, smeared skin disorders with neem-leaf juice, taken neem tea as a tonic, and placed neem leaves in their beds, books, grain bins, cupboards, and closets to keep away troublesome bugs. The tree has relieved so many different pains, fevers, infections, and other complaints that it has been called "the village pharmacy." Numerous research studies have confirmed the herb's anti-inflammatory effects including a 1981 study showing anti-inflammatory properties of neem. when administered orally. In the same year, Indian researchers reported anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory actions of one of the components of neem. called nimbidin (Planta Medica, 198 1, vol. 43). Neem's anti-inflammatory actions show different types of activity against acute and chronic inflammations. Neem's strong inhibition of immediate or acute inflammation suggests it prevents the release of inflammation-inducing neuro-chemicals including prostaglandins. In fact, one 1977 study showed neem extract to be more effective than aspirin in inhibiting prostaglandins Journal of the West African Science Association, vol. 22, 1977). Neem oil moisturizes and protects the skin while it helps heal the lesions, scaling and irritation. Experiments and reports from patients with psoriasis have shown topical treatment with neem extracts and neem seed oil to be as effective as coal tar and cortisone in the treatment of psoriasis ("Effects of neem in psoriasis--a case report," Journal of Res. Ayurveda. 52-58, 1980). The applications produced no noticeable side effects and usually stopped the itching, redness and continued to improve the condition of the skin for the duration of treatment. Improvements were greater when the areas treated with neem. were also exposed to sunlight, sometimes showing a complete disappearance of the condition ("Effect of neem oil and its constituents on cotton pellet inflammation," Medicscope 20: 273-274, 1978). Neem Cream $18.95 Hand & Body Lotion $12.95 Neem Oil Soap (Mint) $5.95 Neem Oil Spray $10.95 Organic Neem Leaf Extract $12.95 Virgin Cold Pressed Neem Oil $10.95 Neem Leaf Capsules - 400 mg. $16.95