Can we consume neem?

We do not recommend Neem. Let's understand why.

Neem is very powerful medicine, but it’s one thing to consume something as a medicine and an entirely different thing to consume it as a daily food substance. In Ayurveda, neem is used as a potent medicine to treat specific ailments. It is a very strong nervous stimulant. However, such stimulants should not become a part of our daily food, as they can be very violent for our bodies. 

Secondly, being very bitter, neem is rajasic in nature. Rajasik foods induce feelings of passion and aggression in the person.

In the 17th chapter, Verse 9 of Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna says-

"katv-amla-lavanaty-usna-tiksna-ruksa-vidahinahahara rajasasyesta duhkha-sokamaya-pradah"

Foods that are too bitter, too sour, salty, pungent, dry and hot, are liked by people in the modes of passion. Such foods cause pain, distress, and disease. 

However, you may add 10-12 curry leaves(meetha neem) to your ash gourd juice.