Igi-Oba as it is known in Yoruba land, is a tree in the mahogany family Meliaceae. Its other names are neem, neem-tree, while its scientific name is Azadirachta indica. It is a very important plant most especially in the ethno botanical world. It is used in curing diseases such as malaria and catarrah (Dont try this at home, the processes are not that simple). The stem is used as a chewing stick to clean the teeth’s and gums. The juice is believed to prevent tooth decay and infection.
Its fresh leaves are mixed with cereals during storage to prevent insect attack. The young seedlings are also commonly transplanted in the northern parts of Nigeria to check encroachment of the Sahara desert and erosion.
References
Bhat, R. B.; Etejere, E. O. and Oladipo, V. T. (1990). Ethno botanical studies from central Nigeria. Economic Botany, 44(3): 382-390
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