Sweet Neem

Botanical name: Murraya koenigii

Murraya koenigii Spreng (curry-leaf tree), is a small aromatic tree belonging to the family Rutaceae. It is a tropical to sub-tropical tree native to India. It is highly aromatic. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant. Among Murraya species, M. koenigii is more popular due to its large spectrum of medicinal properties. M. koenigii leaves have a slightly pungent, bitter and feebly acidulous taste and these characteristics are retained even after drying. Different parts of the plant such as leaves, root, bark and fruit are known to possess various biological activities. Traditionally, this plant is used in Indian systems of medicine for a variety of ailments and also used as a tonic, stomachic, and carminative.

Benefits and uses:

M. koenigii has been used as a folk medicine. Leaves, bark and root of Murraya koenigii are used as a tonic and a stomachic.

The bark and the roots are used as a stimulant by the physicians. They are also used externally to cure eruptions and the bites of poisonous animals.

The leaves increase digestive secretions and relieve nausea, indigestion, and vomiting.

It is widely used as a nephroprotective agent in kidney's infirmities among diabetics by the traditional practitioners.

Phytochemical studies on the leaves stem bark, and root of this plant have resulted in the isolation of carbazole alkaloids.

Strong odiferous oil occurs in the leaves and the seeds of Murraya koenigii. The chemical examination of this oil has shown that this essential oil exhibited a strong antibacterial and antifungal activity.

The shiny-black fruits are liked both by children and adults. They are very nutritious.

The leaves are mainly used as a spice in different curries and impart a very good flavor to the preparations.

The branches of Murraya koenigii are very popular for cleaning the teeth as datun and are said to strengthen the gums and the teeth.