Scientific Name of Neem: Explained for Students
Neem is a tree that is native to the Indian subcontinent. The neem tree is well known for its medicinal properties and has been used in traditional Indian medicine for centuries. Neem oil is extracted from the neem tree and is used in a variety of applications, including as a pesticide, a skin treatment, and a fertilizer. Neem has strong pest-repellent and fungicidal properties that can be applied to plants as a pesticide. The tree is also well known for its ability to remove the dead leaves from fruit trees and for protecting trees from diseases.
Neem seeds and bark are good sources of tannin, calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, and amino acids. The seeds and bark can be used in animal feed and in farming to improve the soil quality.
Neem tree nut oil is extracted from the seeds. Neem has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties. It is also used to remove dead leaves and as a pesticide. Neem leaves and their oil have insecticidal properties.
Neem is also a source of compounds that are called rotenoids, which have pesticidal properties and play a significant role in the neem's ability to repel insects. Neem tree also contains a chemical that stops the spread of bamboo disease. Neem also has medicinal properties.
Neem flowers are used as a dye for skin and hair, a scented ingredient in perfumes, and medicine for bruises and wounds. Neem leaves are applied as a poultice on sores. Neem is used in the production of praffin candles, and as a dye for ivory and some fabrics. The seeds are used as an insecticide and repellent in farming.
It is possible to produce neem oil from the bark, seeds, and leaves. Neem oil has a pleasant smell. People use it as an air freshener and as a substitute for perfume.
Neem oil has many uses in cosmetics, including as a skin cleanser, conditioner, and moisturizer.
On July 22, 2014, the United States Department of Agriculture withdrew approval for use of neem as pest control and animal repellent due to concerns that it is toxic to honeybees. There are many uses of neem oil in farming. Neem leaves and fruits, when used as mulch to increase soil moisture and suppress weeds, can reduce crop loss and decrease nitrate leaching from fields. One study showed that a commercial neem-based pesticide reduced soil nitrate by 68%.
This increases the salt concentration of soil, which also reduces salinity and allows better growth of certain crops. It also helps by providing nitrogen, phytonutrients, and essential minerals. The process of accumulating neem oil as a single pesticide spray or in composting mulch reduces pests in fields and at home.
Scientific Name of the Neem Plant
Before we head straight to find the scientific name of the neem plant, let’s find out the meaning behind the term ‘scientific name’.
Typically, scientific names are unique names that experts give to every recognisable species. Usually, a binomial nomenclature or the binomial naming system is followed while deciding a scientific name.
Notably, all scientific names are borrowed from either Greek or Latin language. Also, there are specific rules which are followed by scientists while naming any living organisms.
With that information, let’s proceed to find out the biological name of the neem and the classification of the neem plant.
This Table below Shows the Scientific Classification of the Neem Tree –
Classification of Neem Tree with Name
So as per the classification of the neem tree, the scientific name of the neem is Azadirachta indica.
Test your Knowledge:
What is the Family Name of Neem?
Which Parts of Neem can be Used?
Neem is one of those trees which extends multiple benefits and all of whose parts are useful in one way or the other.
Read Below to Find out More About the Parts Used and their Usage.
Seeds
There is a striking resemblance between the fruit of the neem tree and olives. Notably, the seed contains more than one kernel which has 50% oil content. This oil has an array of healing properties, and its extracts are used extensively for creating several products ranging from skincare products to insect repellents.
Leaves
There are several uses of neem leaves. The extracts of the leaves are widely used in skincare and hair care products and have also found their way to toothpaste and mouthwashes. Also, it is used as ayurvedic medicine for controlling blood sugar levels, cleansing blood and strengthening the immune system.
Barks
Neem bark has a high proportion of active ingredients, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. In the dental care field, the bark is considered to be an effective medicine for treating gingivitis.
Twigs
Even today a significant number of people in India and several other countries use twigs of this tree as a toothbrush. Its antibacterial properties, among others, are said to help prevent gum diseases and the onset of cavities.
Flowers
Its flowers have a sweet and noticeable smell. In fact, the oil from neem flowers is used extensively in aromatherapy and is believed to have a soothing and therapeutic effect. Also, the honey made from this flower is quite valued for its numerous health benefits.
Pulp
Even after the extraction of oil from the neem seeds, its pulp can be used as mulch or compost to treat the soil. It is useful in neutralizing acidic soil and in improving its overall quality. Also, it can be fed to animals as food.
In a nutshell, the neem tree has an array of properties. Such properties do not just help combat several health problems but are also used extensively to treat skin-related issues.
Find out more about neem tree’s botanical name, its functions and uses in-depth from our concise PDF solutions. You can also access our chapter-based study solutions to gain a better insight into this topic and other related concepts. As the neem tree is an extremely useful and active plant, it has been subjected to multiple types of research over the years.
FAQs on Scientific Name of Neem: Explained for Students
1. What is the scientific name of the Neem tree?
The scientific name of the Neem tree is Azadirachta indica. This name is assigned according to the universal system of binomial nomenclature, which ensures a single, distinct name for the species worldwide, helping to avoid confusion from its many regional names like 'Indian Lilac' or 'Margosa'.
2. What is the taxonomic classification of the Neem tree?
The taxonomic classification of the Neem tree places it within the plant kingdom as follows:
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Order: Sapindales
- Family: Meliaceae (the Mahogany family)
- Genus: Azadirachta
- Species: indica
3. What is the significance of each part of the scientific name Azadirachta indica?
Each part of the scientific name has a specific meaning. 'Azadirachta' is the genus name, derived from Persian words 'Azad' (free), 'dirakht' (tree), and 'i-Hind' (of Indian origin), essentially meaning 'the free tree of India'. The species name, 'indica', directly refers to its geographical origin in the Indian subcontinent.
4. Why is using a scientific name like Azadirachta indica important in Biology?
Using a scientific name is crucial for several reasons:
- Universal Recognition: It provides a standard, globally understood name, overcoming language barriers and regional name variations.
- Accuracy: It ensures that scientists, researchers, and students are precisely identifying and discussing the same species without ambiguity.
- Classification: It shows the relationship between different organisms. For instance, being in the Azadirachta genus indicates its close relationship to other species in that group.
5. What are the primary medicinal properties of Neem?
Neem is renowned for its wide range of medicinal properties, primarily due to its bioactive compounds. Its key properties include being antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic. These properties make it a common ingredient in remedies for skin disorders (like acne and eczema), dental care products, and for boosting overall immunity.
6. How does Neem's chemical composition contribute to its famous properties?
Neem's potent effects are due to complex chemical compounds called limonoids. The most well-known compound is azadirachtin, which acts as a powerful natural insecticide and insect repellent. Other compounds like nimbin, nimbinen, and nimbidin are responsible for its antiseptic, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory benefits used in traditional medicine.
7. What are some important examples of Neem's use in agriculture?
In agriculture, Neem is highly valued as an organic and eco-friendly solution. Its most important uses include:
- Natural Pesticide: Neem oil and cake are used to control over 200 species of pests, including insects, nematodes, and mites, without harming beneficial insects like bees.
- Fertiliser: Neem cake, the residue left after oil extraction, is an excellent organic manure that enriches the soil with essential nutrients.
- Nitrification Inhibitor: When coated on urea fertiliser, Neem slows down the rate at which nitrogen is released into the soil, improving nutrient uptake by plants.
8. What are the ideal growing conditions for a Neem tree?
The Neem tree is highly adaptable but thrives best under specific conditions. It prefers well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils with a pH ranging from 6.2 to 7.5. It is known for its high drought tolerance and grows well in areas with annual temperatures between 21°C and 32°C. While it can withstand dry conditions, it does not tolerate waterlogged soil or extended cold spells.
9. What are the key physical characteristics of a Neem tree?
The Neem tree is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 15-20 metres tall. Its key features include:
- Leaves: The leaves are compound, with many toothed leaflets arranged opposite each other on a central stem.
- Flowers: It produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that grow in drooping clusters.
- Fruit: The fruit is a smooth, olive-like drupe that is yellow-green when ripe and contains a single seed.
- Bark: The bark is hard, rough, and fissured, varying in colour from grey to reddish-brown.
10. Beyond its direct uses, what is the ecological importance of the Neem tree?
The Neem tree plays a significant ecological role, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. It is an excellent tree for afforestation and land reclamation due to its drought resistance and ability to thrive in poor soils. Its extensive root system helps in preventing soil erosion. Furthermore, it acts as a natural air purifier, and its leaf litter helps in improving soil fertility by increasing its organic content.
