Volume 218 Issue 10, 22 May 2015
PLANTS IN DENTISTRY SERIES: AZADIRACHTA INDICA (NEEM TREE)
The cover images in volume 218 all feature botanical illustrations of plants and trees with a connection to dentistry some from the past and a selection still used in present times. The cover of this issue features the Neem tree (Azadirachta indica), also known as the Nimtree or Indian Lilac. The Neem tree is native to the Indian subcontinent and is a tree in the mahogany family. The tree is used in a variety of ways for oral health purposes traditionally, its slender twigs are used as toothbrushes and tongue cleaners, and it is thought that the bark can heal gum disease. The leaves of the Neem tree are often used in herbal remedies for antibacterial and antiviral. Further research is required to assess the purported benefits of neem and determine whether its safe to use in the long term.
Illustration by Liz Pepperell
www.illustrationweb.com
Editorial
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