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Neem was used in every stage of life throughout India, and is still used today for its many beneficial qualities. Starting from birth, it is recommended that newborn infants be anointed with herbs and oil, laid on a silken sheet and fanned with neem tree branches. The child is to be given small doses of neem oil when ill, bathed with neem tea to treat cuts, rashes, and chicken pox. Neem twigs were used as toothbrushes to prevent gum diseases and tooth caries. Wedding ceremonies included neem leaves placed on the floor of the temple, and neem branches for fans. Neem oil was used in small lamps for lighting. Neem wood was used for cooking fuel and for making the roof of the house. Grains and beans were stored in containers with neem leaves to keep out insects. At the time of death, neem branches were used to cover the body and neem wood was burned in the funeral pyre

FOOD as MEDICINE: NEEM RECIPES
Ugadi Pachadi By Saroj Kering

Ingredients

2 tsp neem flower
4 tsp grated jaggery
3 tsp tamarind
pinch of red chilli powder
¼ tsp mustard seeds
Salt a per taste
1 tsp oil
1 tsp finely chopped raw mango
1-1/4 cup water

Soak tamarind in water for 1/2 hour. Boil the water for 5 minutes. Cool and blend in mixer till smooth. Pass through a sieve, removing any fibers, etc. Add mango pieces to the juice. Boil till mango pieces are tender. Add jaggery. Let it cook till it melts. Remove from fire and keep aside

Heat oil, add mustard seeds. When it splutters, add neem flower and fry till light brown. Add chilli powder and salt. Mix well. Mix the neem flower to tamarind juice. Serve in small quantities.

Ugadi Pachadi is a healthy low calorie pachadi where the Neem flowers, new tamarind, jaggery and fresh raw mangoes contain nutrients that cleanse the system and act as prophylactics (prevention of illness or disease).

SOURCE:  http://food.sify.com/recipe.php?id=13260518&ctid=76&cid=13293035

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