Here, we understand the major side effects of neem and what precautions you can take to prevent them. Keep reading.
What Are The Side Effects Of Neem Leaves?
1. May Cause Kidney Damage
A study reports of a case of acute renal failure in an individual after taking a Chinese herbal medication. The medication, as per the report, contained neem as one of the primary ingredients (1). Though no direct link had been established between neem intake and kidney damage, it is important to be careful. The trend of toxic renal injuries with respect to herbal medicines is likely to continue (1). Hence, exercise caution. Some believe that excess intake of neem may also damage the liver. There is no research to support this. But to be on the safe side, if you have liver issues, please consult your doctor before consuming neem.
2. May Lower Blood Sugar Way Too Much
In a study, a combination of neem and longevity spinach (a type of spinach found in China) was found to have hypoglycemic properties (2). Though the hypoglycemic effects of neem seem desirable, if you are on medications for lowering blood sugar, please check with your doctor before ingesting neem. Doctors recommend small amounts of neem oil for individuals with diabetes as it controls blood sugar levels. But, when taken in excess, the drop may become extreme. Hypoglycemia may cause dizziness and weakness (fatigue) (3).
3. May Lead To Reduced Fertility
In rat studies, the administration of neem flower extracts blocked ovulation partially. Though neem could be used as an antifertility agent when required, it may also reduce fertility even when not desired (4). In studies done on rats, mice, rabbits, and guinea pigs, neem was found to reduce male fertility. In male rats, this reduction was as much as 67% in just six weeks. However, neem didn’t seem to stop sperm production (5). Some experts theorize that farmers use neem pesticides to cause infertility in the pests so that they do not multiply, resulting the same in individuals who expose themselves to these pesticides. These pesticides are known to disrupt the direction of the sperms and take a toll on the immune system. However, research is lacking in this aspect. Olesya Wilson, a certified nutritionist, says, “Neem leaf extract can have a very detrimental effect on male reproduction. Research has linked it to decreases in testosterone and increases in estrogen levels.”
4. May Cause Miscarriage
In animal studies, neem extracts were found to induce pregnancy. The extracts could terminate a pregnancy with no visible side effects in both rodents and monkeys. Though this could be desirable for someone looking to abort the child, for those who are expecting to conceive, neem intake may not be recommended (6). Some theories state that overexposure to neem may cause the immune system to become hyperactive. This could lead the body to reject the sperm cells and eject them from the conceived embryo. However, there is insufficient information to substantiate this.
5. May Cause Allergic Reactions
A study discusses a case of allergic contact stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth) after the intake of neem leaves once every week for three consecutive weeks (7). Though neem is most commonly used for treating allergies and rashes, its excessive use may lead to allergies. We need more research to further understand the other allergies the use of neem may cause.
6. May Lead To Infant Deaths
Studies have shown that neem could be toxic to infants. Doses of neem oil (as small as 5 ml) had resulted in infant deaths (8). Animal studies also showed the toxicity of neem oil at doses as low as 12 to 24 ml per kilogram of body weight (9). Though the contaminants in neem oil could be responsible for these effects (and not neem itself), more research is warranted. Neem leaves or their extracts must not be consumed for longer periods. Anecdotal reports state kidney failure in patients who consumed neem leaf teas as a treatment for malaria (10). The substances in neem are known to cause symptoms of Reye’s syndrome in infants when exposed to neem oil. The consumption of the smallest dosage can be fatal for infants (11). Insufficient Evidence For The Following There is less information and research about the following side effects. These have only been validated by anecdotal evidence. However, if you experience any of these side effects after ingesting neem, please stop use and consult your doctor.
7. May Cause Stomach Irritation
Excess inhalation or consumption of neem may cause indigestion or stomach irritation. More research is needed to understand how this happens.
8. May Overstimulate Your Immune System
Consumption of neem or neem-based products can boost the immune system. However, heavy doses of neem (especially in patients with ailments) may overstimulate the immune system and cause complications. Patients who have undergone organ transplants may also need to stay away from neem. The leaves are believed to interact with immunosuppressant medications during surgeries. However, there is insufficient information in this regard. Does neem affect hormones? Several simple methods can help ensure you won’t have a negative experience using this miraculous plant. Check out the infographic below to learn about the preventive measures you can follow to avoid the side effects of neem. According to Olesya Wilson, a certified nutritionist, “Neem leaves have been proposed as a male contraceptive. One study found that when taken once a day, neem leaf paste can help with insulin resistance, which is one of the main concerns in women with PCOS. It also decreases luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, which are important in sexual development during puberty.” Does neem affect hair growth? “Neem oil can be diluted and applied topically to areas like the scalp to stimulate blood flow and hair growth. It has been shown to increase Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) versus control groups,” opines Olesya Wilson, a certified nutritionist. Does neem detox the body? Yes. Neem purifies toxins from the body and also detoxes the blood (15). It also helps in cleansing the liver and other important internal organs. Who should not take neem? People who had an organ transplant should avoid using neem. It might lower blood sugar levels. However, limited research is available. Can I take neem on an empty stomach? Yes. In fact, intake of neem leaves on an empty stomach for a month helps manage and control diabetes (16). Can neem leaves be eaten raw? Yes. Neem leaves can be eaten raw, and may keep your gut healthy and safe. Does neem lower blood pressure? Yes. The intake of neem has protective effects and can control hypertension (high blood pressure) (17).
