Why dried neem leaves used for storing food grains?

Neem leaves possess several properties that make them ideal for storing food grains and protecting them from pests:

Repellent properties: Neem leaves contain bioactive compounds such as azadirachtin, nimbin, and salannin, which have insecticidal and repellent effects. These compounds deter insects, including beetles, weevils, and moths, from feeding on or laying eggs in the stored food grains.

Antifeedant properties: Neem leaves have antifeedant properties that make the food grains unpalatable to pests. Insects find the taste and smell of neem leaves unpleasant, further discouraging them from consuming the stored grains.

Desiccant properties: Neem leaves have the ability to absorb moisture from the surrounding environment. This helps keep the stored food grains dry and prevents the growth of mold and fungi, which can cause spoilage.

Fumigant properties: When neem leaves are dried and crushed, they release volatile compounds that act as fumigants. These compounds create an insecticidal atmosphere within the storage containers, suffocating and repelling pests.

Natural and safe: Neem leaves are a natural and safe method of pest control. They do not leave any harmful residues or chemicals in the stored food grains, ensuring the quality and safety of the food for human consumption.

Overall, the combination of repellent, antifeedant, desiccant, and fumigant properties makes dried neem leaves an effective and eco-friendly solution for storing food grains and protecting them from insect infestation and spoilage.