The Autobiography of a Neem Tree
The Autobiography of a Neem Tree I am a Neem tree. My scientific name is Azadiracta indica. I was born in a dilapidated compound in the Egmore area of Madras in 1985. I am an Indian. We don't survive in cold climates. The hot and humid Indian climate is our favourite climate. This is our home. The beauty of India is a sensory delight to us. We love the myriad colours of India. The fragrant rosewood and sandalwood trees are my close friends. We love to contribute to everyone's health. We have been used by generations of Indians to kill bacteria and fungi. Farmers love us! Our leaves are the most potent insecticides and fungicides. The bark of Neem is used in a wide variety of medicinal preparations. Our flowers are used in Indian cooking. Our wood can be used as firewood, too. We are very useful. My whole community serves the variegated interests of mankind. Yet, human beings scarcely recognise our need for water. It is summer time and we feel...