As a plant, neem contains many different compounds. More than 135 different compounds have been found in neem. At this time, it is not clear which compounds (or combination of compounds) might be responsible for its medicinal actions. Early research suggests that neem (or the compounds found in neem) has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-fever effects. It is thought that neem might have contraceptive effects by stimulating the immune system to attack the sperm or the embryo.
Much more research is necessary before it is fully understood exactly how (or even if) neem works for most uses.
There have been reports of serious reactions (some fatal) due to neem use in children. It is probably best to avoid giving neem to children, until more information is available.
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