Neem: A Tree for Solving Global Problems

by National Research Council

Neem is a fascinating tree. On the one hand, it seems to be one of the most promising of all plants and may eventually benefit every person on the planet. Probably no other yields as many strange and varied products or has as many exploitable by-products. Indeed, as foreseen by some scientists, this plant may usher in a new era in pest control, provide millions with inexpensive medicines, cut down the rate of human population growth, and perhaps even reduce erosion, deforestation, and the excessive temperature of an overheated globe.

On the other hand, that all remains only a vague promise. Although the enthusiasm may be justified, it is largely founded on empirical or anecdotal evidence. Our purpose here is to marshal the various facts about this little-known species, to help illuminate its future promise, and to speed realization of its potential.

This report has been produced by the National Research Council particularly for nonspecialists such as government ministers, research directors, university students, private voluntary organizations, and entrepreneurs. It is intended as an economic development document, not a scientific monograph.

144 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1992

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Reviews

[Sara-Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

it was during the 1920s in the northern territories of the gold coast that the neem tree was first introduced to African soil, by no less a personage than governor guggisberg during the 1920s, the neem tree has since become ubiquitous and with a wide, somewhat astounding, range of usages. I dance daily in its shade, and chew the sticks for healthy oral hygiene (and to further my not so secret ambition of becoming an old man).

[Swaroopa Rajpurohit · Rating 4 out of 5]

It Stayed true to its title and explained in laymen language the scientific reasons behind how they thought of Neem as a solution, it was also unbiased as the tree neem was not projected as the ultimate gift to mankind which it is close to but is still not. However, it was sort of repetitive in places i wish it hadn't been which is understood as it is authored by many people. Simple read though.