Last week, I had written that I would try to write a 'tree post' every week if possible. Trying to get the message of afforestation is my general idea.
So, today I am going to write about my plans for a neem tree sapling that we have now. Deciding the right place to plant is now the topic of discussion.
The neem tree is extremely beneficial to the environment. Even the school textbook has a whole chapter devoted to the uses of the Neem tree.
Did you know that all parts of the neem tree are used to prepare medicines? Especially Ayurveda. Eating neem leaves as it is that is if you are able to tolerate the bitter taste, can help reduce blood sugar levels and it is also good for the eyes.
Neem leaves are also helpful in reducing skin infections and the like. There are bath soaps exclusively made from neem leaves. So, the idea of planting neem tree saplings is very good because it helps not only the environment but also can be used by all. The leaves also act as manure and insect repellent.
I have read a story about the neem tree and the tamarind tree. I thought I would share it so that you get an insight into folklore.
Once upon a time, a young man felt that he would prosper if he traveled outside of his village and worked in the city. So, he told his mother that he was leaving the house. His mother knew that he would prosper if he worked on his own land but she did not want to sound discouraging.
The mother advised the son to sleep under the tamarind tree when going towards the city and to sleep under the neem tree when coming back. Those days, people traveled by foot and the son agreed.
After a week, the son returned and told his mother that he decided to stay in the village itself. He explained that he felt tired and rested under the tamarind tree for the night and the next morning, he felt sick. He asked for help but none of the city dwellers bothered to look after him and he understood that his village people were so caring. Also, he did not find anyone who was willing to offer him either food or shelter, or even a job. While returning, he decided to sleep under the neem tree as advised by his mother, and the next morning, he felt really better.
The mother was happy that her son understood that the village was a far better place and no matter where one was, it was the environment, the people, and the love that mattered most and of course the dedication towards work.
I retold the story just to point out that folklore contains such stories.
Coming back to the sapling and the planting, I hope you also take this initiative and plant tree saplings. It can be anywhere. Either your house or the park or school ground. It can also be planted along the sidewalks so that it benefits the general public too.
In my opinion, every neighborhood should have a park where such trees are planted so that the children get to know the importance of growing trees and also it will help the birds in the locality.
While we are on the subject, More flowers - more bees.
Why not plant a few flower plants in pots? It will attract more bees and thus help nature.
Let us all strive toward repairing nature and making our planet more beautiful and get rid of the after-effects of pollution.