Neem Baba – Part 1
The story Neem Baba revolves around a conversation between a girl named Amber and a Neem tree, personified as “Neem Baba.” Amber returns from school and sits under the shade of the Neem tree in her courtyard. She feels as if the tree is whispering to her, and she begins to speak to it. The tree, in the form of Neem Baba, responds warmly, and they start a conversation about the tree’s history, uses, and benefits.
Neem Baba tells Amber that he has existed for millions of years, originally growing in North India or Myanmar. His family has since spread to other parts of Asia, Africa, and even some parts of America. He shares with Amber that his name, Neem, was given by the Iranians, although he has other names in different regions, such as Nimb, Leemba, and Nimbe.
As Amber listens attentively, she learns about the many uses of the Neem tree. Neem Baba explains that people use his twigs to clean their teeth and his leaves to protect clothes and cure illnesses like measles. The Neem tree’s leaves, bark, flowers, fruits, and roots are all used to make medicines that cure various diseases. Neem Baba also highlights how neem is beneficial for farmers. The powder of neem seeds can be mixed with water and sprayed on crops to protect them from insects like locusts, termites, and mosquitoes, which can destroy crops.
Amber is fascinated by Neem Baba’s wisdom and asks more about its daily uses. Neem Baba tells her that his seed powder can be added to stored grains to protect them from insects. Neem oil is also used in soaps and toothpaste, and neem wood is used to make furniture that termites cannot destroy. Additionally, Neem Baba mentions that neem purifies the air and has many more benefits yet to be discovered.
In the end, Amber thanks Neem Baba for his time and promises to explore more about neem when she grows up. Neem Baba blesses her, and the story concludes with Amber feeling enlightened by the knowledge shared by the tree.
This story teaches us the importance of nature, specifically the neem tree, and its vast range of uses in daily life. It also highlights the value of nurturing the environment and discovering the hidden benefits of natural resources like neem.
Leave a Reply