Content area
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The neem tree (
Full text
Introduction
The
A state of “excellent health” is described in Sanskrit as “Nimba” which eventually evolved into “Neem.” The tree is referred to as “Sarvaroga nivarini,” which means “the remedy for all ailments” or “the panacea for all ills.” Neem is referred to as “Arishtha” in Ayurveda, which means “reliever of illnesses.” Due to the tree's therapeutic capabilities, it is still referred to as a “village pharmacy,” “Divine tree” and “nature's drugstore” in India (Devi and Sharma 2023).
In Ayurveda, Unani, Homeopathy, and modern medicine, neem components are used to treat viral, metabolic, or neoplastic illnesses. The leaves, seeds, blossoms, and bark of this tree are widely used for various applications. Numerous phytochemicals have been extracted from different plant parts, including triterpenes, gallic acid, nimbins, saponins, catechins, limonoids, flavonoids, phenols, and glycoproteins (Sandhir et al. 2021). The leaves also contain a variety of active ingredients, but the most important active constituent is azadirachtin, while the others are sodium nimbinate, gedunin, salannin, quercetin, nimbin, nimbidin, and nimbidol (Joshi and Prabhakar 2021).
Previous studies have shown that the crude extract of neem leaves has strong hypoglycemic, hypolipemic, hepatoprotective, and hypertensive properties. Neem has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and antidiabetic effects. Numerous effects have been investigated, including anticancer, antibacterial, antiparasitic, antipyretic, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, hepatoprotective, and gastroprotective (Asghar et al. 2022). Particular focus should be placed on employing non-toxic herbal items to control illnesses in humans and animals. Additionally, care should be taken to assess the safety of various neem and neem compounds. There is a ton of potential for this miraculous plant to be used effectively. The significance of bioactive compounds in the neem and the inhibition and treatment of illnesses are briefly discussed in this article.
Botanical Description
It is grown most frequently in tropical and semi-tropical climates. This tree has a rough gray bark. Neem trees thrive in regions with low rainfall. The tree height is approximately 12–15 m and occasionally 25–35 m. A flowering plant typically begins bearing fruit after 3–5 years. Within 10 years, trees begin to bear fruit (Islas et al. 2020). Neem trees can survive 150–200 years and increase the size of shade trees with thick, rounded canopies. The taste of the entire tree is harsh—green, with asymmetrical leaves and blunt serrations (Figure 1). The leaves reached a length of 30 cm. Each leaf had 10–12 serrated leaflets. They are 2.5 cm broad and 7 cm long (Bhamare et al. 2020).
[IMAGE OMITTED. SEE PDF]
The blossoms are white and have a fragrant aroma, particularly at night. Flowers bloom twice a year, in April to May and August to September. A neem tree produces 20–40 kg of fruit each year. Its fruit, called nimboli, is tiny, oblong, and smooth. The unripe fruit is dark and bitter, but the ripe fruit is yellow and slightly sweet. Taxonomical classification and vernaculars of neem (Table 1) (Semere 2023). Table 1 depicts the taxonomical classification and vernaculars of neem.
TABLE 1 Taxonomical classification and vernaculars of neem (Uchegbu et al. 2011; Quraishi et al. 2018).
| Vernaculars of neem | Taxonomic positions of neem | ||
| English | Indian Lilac, Margosa Tree | Kingdom | Plantae |
| Urdu | Neem | Order | Rutales |
| India | Indian Lilac Tree | Suborder | Rutinae |
| Hindi | Balnimb, Nim, Nimb | Family | Meliaceae |
| Indo China | Sau dau, Sdao, Xoan dau | Subfamily | Melioideae |
| Arabic | Al Shurisha | Tribe | Melieae |
| Genus | Azadirachta | ||
| Specie | Indica | ||
| Latin |
|
Utilization of Particular Neem Parts
Flowers
Most parts of the neem tree are unpleasant, except for its flowers. Neem flowers are delicate, white with grayish buds, refreshed, and too beautiful to consider eating. The flowers bloom twice, once in the evening and once late at night, and have a lovely, almost mystical, jasmine-like smell in the evening. They are dispersed directly under the trees during rainfall. These neem flowers, known as Vepampoo in Tamil, can be used fresh, dried, or powdered (Prakash et al. 2021). They are frequently used in the South to prepare various foods, including lentils, bloom rice, pachadi, and rasam, and that is only the beginning. They are typically dry-boiled and used as garnishes in cuisine. Neem flowers are a natural remedy for intestinal worms, vomiting, nausea, and anorexia (Table 2) (Sharma and Paliwal 2021).
TABLE 2
| Parts | Form | Utilization | References |
| Leaf | Traditional medicine |
Neem leaves have been employed in traditional medicine for ages due to their medicinal qualities They may have antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Neem leaf extract treats skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne Additionally, people take it internally to treat conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and digestive issues |
Reddy and Neelima (2022) |
| Herbal preparation |
Neem leaves can undergo dehydration and pulverization processes, making them useful for making capsules or tea People frequently consume neem leaf tea for its astringent flavor and potential therapeutic benefits |
Kalaskar et al. (2021) | |
| Agricultural use |
Neem leaves include inherent properties that make them effective as a pesticide and repellant against insects They can be utilized in diverse forms, such as a spray made from extracting the essence of leaves, to manage pests in agriculture. |
Gupta (2022) | |
| Seed | Oil production |
Neem seeds are the source of Neem oil, a versatile material used in cosmetics, soaps, shampoos, and medications Neem oil is rich in fatty acids and contains chemicals such as azadirachtin, which has insecticidal qualities |
Chaudhary et al. (2021) |
| Insecticidal use |
Neem oil is a biologically derived substance that effectively controls insects and fungi. This solution exhibits efficacy against various pests, encompassing aphids, caterpillars, mites, and leaf miners It hinders the growth and maturation of insects, making it a widely favored option for organic farming |
Muhammad and Kashere (2020) | |
| Bark | Medicinal purposes |
The Neem tree bark includes a variety of bioactive chemicals, including quercetin and nimbidin, which possess antipyretic, antimalarial, and analgesic activities Historically, it has been employed in Ayurvedic medicine to address conditions such as fever, malaria, and discomfort |
Ogidi et al. (2021) |
| Oral care |
Herbal toothpaste and mouthwash contain neem bark The antibacterial characteristics of this substance aid in preserving oral hygiene and averting gum disorders such as gingivitis |
Kalaskar et al. (2021) | |
| Industrial use | Neem bark contains tannins, which are utilized for tanning leather and coloring fabrics. Tannins can form bonds with proteins, which is beneficial in the tanning process because it facilitates the transformation of animal hides into leather | Das et al. (2020) | |
| Twig | Oral hygiene |
Traditional oral hygiene procedures use Neem twigs as natural toothbrushes Chewing on neem twigs or using them as toothbrushes is believed to help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath Neem twigs possess antibacterial characteristics that can impede the proliferation of microorganisms in the oral cavity |
Kishore et al. (2023) |
| Flower | Medicinal use |
Traditional medicine commonly uses neem flowers due to their therapeutic characteristics. They offer digestive benefits and serve as a blood purifier Neem flower infusions or extracts are occasionally employed to treat gastrointestinal problems such as constipation, bloating, and indigestion |
Islas et al. (2020) |
| Anthelmintic properties | Neem flowers possess anthelmintic qualities, which aid in expelling intestinal worms from the body. Traditional treatments for deworming may use infusions or decoctions made from neem blossoms | Rahaman et al. (2022) |
According to a study by Gbotolorun et al. (2008), in 80% of rats, diestrus was prolonged, altering the estrous cycle. Neem flower resulted in a substantial (p < 0.05) decrease in ova lost during estrus in rats administered the extract at 9 a.m. on proestrus. Neem flowers had no anti-implantation/abortifacient or teratogenic effects on rats. The estrous cycle in Sprague–Dawley rats was interrupted by neem flower alcohol. It partially blocks ovulation and might become a female contraceptive. Table 2 depicts the
Leaves
Neem leaves have excellent healing properties. In addition to being useful for controlling diseases and pests, they can benefit animals when mixed with other grains. In some parts of India, especially in the southern Indian states, neem leaves are used as fertilizer in rice fields (Subapriya and Nagini 2005).
Neem leaves are sometimes used as a growth medium in tomato and tobacco farms. By applying them to plant roots to retain moisture, they can be utilized to effectively eradicate weeds in all environments. Neem leaves may also be used to keep pests out of wool and silk clothing that is being preserved (Latif et al. 2020). Thai people take the young leaves and blooms of Siamese neem as bitter tonic vegetables. The plant extract was found to be non-toxic. In their study, Sithisarn et al. (2007) showed that extracts from Siamese neem tree leaves effectively prevented the production of hypervalent iron or efficiently deactivated the hypervalent state.
In another study conducted by Onyimonyi et al. (2009), broiler performance and economic variables were analyzed. Sun-dried Neem Leaf Meal was fed to broilers in various amounts. The study contained 90 Ross 2-week-old unsexed broilers. The birds were randomly assigned to five 18-bird treatment groups. For treatments 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, NLM was added at 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2%. All three treatments were done twice throughout the experiment. Each replication had nine birds. The experimental design was completely random. The results showed that treatment significantly affected AFBW, ADG, ADFI, and FCR.
Neem Cake
Neem cakes are dynamic and have several applications. They can be used as a normal insecticide, compost, and animal feed. Combined with urea before being applied to the field, they provide natural nitrogen while impeding nitrification. Using a 90:10 ratio of neem-coated urea can prevent up to 30% of the total synthetic nitrogen requirement of crops from wasting. This results in lower production costs of horticulture. In India, neem cake is typically used as a fertilizer for sugarcane, vegetables, and other commercial crops (de Sá Leitão et al. 2022).
According to Benelli et al. (2015), neem cake, a low-cost byproduct obtained from neem oil extraction, is a crucial source of toxic metabolites in mosquitoes. This review focuses on four main aspects: (i) recent advancements in neem cake metabolomics, specifically regarding nor-terpenoids and related compounds; (ii) the toxic effects of neem cake on the eggs, larvae, and adult mosquitoes of Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex species; (iii) the unintended effects of neem cake on non-target vertebrates; and (iv) the ability of neem cake to deter mosquito females from laying eggs. Neem cake might be an environmentally friendly and cost-effective chemical source for developing more advanced and secure control methods against mosquito vectors. Neem cake is a cost-effective and readily accessible natural resource that shows promise for developing a new bioinsecticide, particularly in developing countries (Nicoletti et al. 2010). Another study conducted by Chandramohan et al. (2016) revealed that the methanolic fractions of neem cake can serve as a novel and cost-effective source of potent chemicals to combat An. culicifacies, malarial vectors that are prevalent in rural areas.
Twigs and Bark
Neem belongs to the Mahogany family and it grows rapidly. The tree has an abundance of branches. Rural individuals and peasants use the diverse health properties of neem twigs for dental hygiene. Researchers have extracted and separated several compounds from various plant parts. Neem twigs contain fibrous materials (Raja and Devarajan 2023). As an Asian native, you probably witnessed someone biting into a neem branch. Neem twigs have been used as temporary toothbrushes for a long time. They eliminate bacteria, maintain the soluble components in the saliva, control microbes, cure inflamed gums, and make teeth whiter. The twig also separates into threads resembling fibers that degrade and prevent plaque (Reddy and Neelima 2022).
Neem twigs can be used as oral deodorants, toothache analgesics, and for dental hygiene. The neem bark is an antibacterial and deodorizing agent. Among the various phytochemical components of the neem plant are nimbidin, nimbin, nimbolide, gallic acid, epicatechin, catechin, and margolone. All these compounds showed a strong antibacterial effect (Lakshmi et al. 2015). The study conducted by Adyanthaya et al. (2014) showed antibacterial efficacy in neem twig extract against cariogenic and periodontal disorders. For oral healthcare, bioactive components in the extract should be separated and identified.
Neem Oil
Neem oil comes from the Meliaceae tree
Neem oil is composed of several bioactive components. The primary components are triterpenes, specifically limonoids. The most significant pest is azadirachtin, which is responsible for approximately 90% of the impact on most pests (Roy and Saraf 2006). Additional constituents include meliantriol, nimbin, nimbidin, nimbinin, nimbolides, fatty acids (oleic, stearic, and palmitic acids), and salannin. The primary neem product is the oil obtained from seeds using various extraction methods. Although other components of the neem tree have lower levels of azadirachtin, they are utilized for extracting oil and as a food source for insects (Saxena et al. 2018).
The medicinal characteristics of neem oil, extracted from neem seeds, make it a fantastic ingredient in cosmetics and other high-quality products such as hand soap, cleansers, and hair oil. It is recognized as an excellent mosquito repellent that can cure a wide range of skin diseases (Chaudhary et al. 2021). Neem can also be used by the body when coupled with coconut oil. It is believed that neem oil is promoted to children in India as a type of cure. Neem oil is a fantastic Ayurvedic healer that protects various plants. It can also be found in creams, lotions, cleansers, and other soothing products (Amra et al. 2022).
Bioactive Profile
[IMAGE OMITTED. SEE PDF]
TABLE 3 Neem medicinal ingredients and their phytochemicals and benefits.
| Medicinal ingredient | Phytochemical | Effects | Uses and benefits | References |
| Azadirachtin | Limonoids | Antifeedant | Azadirachtin functions as an insect-feeding deterrent, rendering it a valuable natural insecticide | Qin et al. (2020) |
| Insecticidal | It hinders the growth and development of insect larvae and has demonstrated effectiveness against a broad spectrum of pests | Kilani-Morakchi et al. (2021) | ||
| Anticancer | Studies indicate that azadirachtin demonstrates cytotoxic properties against cancer cells, suggesting its potential as an anticancer drug | John and Raza (2023) | ||
| Nimbin | Tetranortriterpenoids | Anti-inflammatory | Nimbin exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, rendering it valuable for addressing diverse inflammatory ailments like arthritis and skin problems | Sudhakaran et al. (2022a, 2022b) |
| Antimicrobial | It has a wide range of antibacterial action against bacteria, fungi, and viruses, which explains its traditional application in wound healing and infection management | Sudhakaran et al. (2022a, 2022b) | ||
| Antipyretic | Historically, people have used nimbin for its antipyretic properties, which help to lower fever | Oktavia and Ifora (2022) | ||
| Nimbidin | Tetranortriterpenoids | Antihyperglycemic | Nimbidin has exhibited hypoglycemic properties, which can be advantageous in treating diabetes by reducing blood glucose levels | Patil et al. (2022) |
| Antioxidant | It demonstrates potent antioxidant properties, neutralizing free radicals and safeguarding cells against oxidative harm | HNSKTavva et al. (2023) | ||
| Wound healing | Nimbidin facilitates wound healing and skin regeneration, rendering it beneficial in managing lacerations, thermal injuries, and other dermal traumas | Thomas et al. (2024) | ||
| Quercetin | Flavonoids | Anti-inflammatory | Quercetin shows strong anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing the production of inflammatory mediators and blocking the pathways involved in inflammation. This ability may be beneficial in reducing symptoms of inflammatory disorders like allergies and arthritis | Azeem et al. (2023) |
| Antiviral | Evidence has demonstrated that it can impede the reproduction of certain viruses, such as respiratory viruses like influenza, potentially diminishing the intensity and length of viral illnesses | Di Petrillo et al. (2022) | ||
| Antioxidant | Quercetin is a potent antioxidant that eliminates harmful free radicals, safeguarding cells from oxidative harm and diminishing the likelihood of chronic ailments like heart disease and cancer | Ersoz et al. (2020) | ||
| β-Sitosterol | Phytosterols | Cholesterol-lowering | β-Sitosterol reduces LDL cholesterol levels by blocking cholesterol absorption in the intestines, potentially decreasing the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease | Athraa (2022) |
| Anti-inflammatory | It has anti-inflammatory effects that can relieve symptoms of inflammatory disorders such as arthritis and improve joint health | Jain et al. (2020) | ||
| Prostate health | Research has explored the potential of Beta-sitosterol in promoting prostate health and alleviating symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) | Iman et al. (2022) | ||
| Kaempferol | Flavonoids | Antioxidant | Kaempferol is a powerful antioxidant that eliminates harmful free radicals and decreases oxidative stress, possibly protecting against chronic illnesses like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders | Reddy and Neelima (2022) |
| Anti-inflammatory | It demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties by blocking the action of enzymes and cytokines that cause inflammation. This makes it useful for treating inflammation-related illnesses like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease | Biswal et al. (2021) | ||
| Cardiovascular activity | Cardiovascular benefits of kaempferol include lowering blood pressure, improving blood vessel function, and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke | Nwanekezie et al. (2023) | ||
| Azadirachtol | Tetranortriterpenoids | Antimicrobial | Azadirachtol demonstrates a wide range of antibacterial action against bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, which makes it valuable for treating several infectious disorders | Falana and Nurudeen (2020) |
| Anti-inflammatory | It has anti-inflammatory characteristics that can decrease inflammation and alleviate symptoms of arthritis and skin ailments | Awadh et al. (2022) | ||
| Wound healing | Azadirachtol enhances wound healing by expediting the generation of fresh skin tissue and diminishing the likelihood of infection, rendering it highly beneficial in wound care | Abbas et al. (2020) | ||
| Gedunin | Tetranortriterpenoids | Antimalarial | Gedunin has demonstrated potent antimalarial efficacy by effectively suppressing the growth and replication of Plasmodium parasites, the primary causative agents responsible for malaria | Braga et al. (2020) |
| Anti-inflammatory | It demonstrates anti-inflammatory characteristics that can aid in diminishing inflammation and relieving symptoms of inflammatory ailments like arthritis and asthma | Sarkar et al. (2021) | ||
| Antitumor | The potential anticancer properties of Gedunin have been investigated, including its ability to suppress the development and proliferation of cancer cells and induce apoptosis. These findings imply that Gedunin can potentially be a therapeutic agent for cancer treatment | Nagini et al. (2024) | ||
| Salannin | Limonoids | Insecticidal | Salannin functions as a natural pesticide, deterring and impeding the development of several insect pests, rendering it highly important in agriculture and pest management | Juma et al. (2022) |
| Antifungal | It demonstrates fungicidal capabilities against a broad spectrum of fungi, aiding in the management of fungal diseases in both plants and humans | Joshi and Prabhakar (2021) | ||
| Antimicrobial | Salannin exhibits bactericidal properties against bacteria and other pathogens, which explains its traditional application in promoting wound healing and controlling infections | Shishupala (2024) |
Nimbin (a triterpenoid isolated from neem) possesses fungicidal, antipyretic, antihistamine, and antiseptic effects. Furthermore, nimbin possesses properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress by limiting the production of oxygen species (ROS), thus minimizing damage, as discussed by Kumari and Singh (2024). An in-depth study of the composition of the oil extracts revealed high concentrations of flavonoids, triterpenes, and saponins, which are commonly found in this popular herb (Luo et al. 2024). In contrast, according to Nagano and Batalini (2021), nimbin and catechins are present in large amounts. Other compounds identified in neem extracts include acids, limonoids, terpenoids, tannins, reducing sugars, alkaloids, and catechins, as highlighted by Bolaji et al. (2024). In animals, neem leaf glycoprotein (NLGP) modulates the immune system. It may come from tree leaves. According to Singh et al. (2022), NLGP may have the potential to inhibit tumor growth.
Recent findings by Wijanarko and Rifa'i (2020) on leaf extract analysis encompassed the methanolic extracts. The results revealed the levels of saponins, glycosides, and tannins, specifically in the aqueous extracts. The highest quantities of alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids were detected in methanolic extracts. This demonstrates the wide range of readily available compounds but intriguingly places a lot of emphasis on the extraction process. Proline, a current therapy for neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Diabetes Mellitus Type 2, Parkinson's disease, and polycythemia, was found at significant concentrations in the biochemical examination of neem leaf extracts (Rahmah et al. 2024). Table 3 depicts the neem medicinal ingredients and their phytochemicals and benefits.
Extraction Methods
Neem oil was extracted using an ancient technique that involves placing crushed seed kernels in a water container and fetching the oil that floats to the surface. The quality was affected by the low yields. Neem oil was extracted commercially using a steam distillation method with petroleum ether (boiling point of 60°C–80°C). Ordinary distillation was used to separate the oil from the filtrate at 70°C. The oil was then placed in a round-bottom flask and heated in a water bath for 20 h at 60°C–70°C a rotating vacuum evaporator to remove any remaining solvent. n-Hexane and ethanol can also be used as solvents for oil extraction. Temperature, oxidation, hydrolysis, lipase enzymes, and unfavorable chemicals in the oil impact its quality (Kumar et al. 2016).
Organic solvents, such as ethers and dimethyl sulfoxide, were utilized to obtain highly concentrated extracts. Utilizing supercritical carbon dioxide flow at high pressures and temperatures may increase the concentration. To be used as a nutraceutical, neem must first remove its bitter active ingredients because they are abundant in the plant. Using water, methyl ethyl ketone, ethanol, methanol, methyl tert-butyl ether, or their azeotropic mixtures as solvents allows for various extraction techniques (Datta et al. 2017). For industrial-scale isolation of the main azadirachtins and additional bioactive meliacins, several liquid chromatographic modifications have been used, including column chromatography, reverse phase medium, thin layer chromatography, high-pressure preparative liquid chromatography, and vacuum liquid chromatography (Hodgson et al. 2019).
Over time, various methods have been developed to prepare azadirachtin concentrates with different potencies for domestic and industrial applications. The indigenous techniques include water extraction, steam distillation, cold maceration, and organic solvent extraction. In a conical flask, defatted kernels are submerged in methanol during the maceration process, which is a cold-extraction technique. After 3 days of intermittent stirring, the combination resulted in a dried crude extract, which was then filtered and, under vacuum, the solvent evaporated. A magnetic pellet was placed into the flask during batch stirring extraction, and the liquid was shaken on a magnetic stirrer plate for 8 h. The crude extract was prepared by vacuum evaporation of the solvent. Aqueous extracts may be produced with minimal equipment and are as effective as other methods. The cold extract can be utilized in the home after being prepared from powdered seeds, kernels, or leaves after being soaked and filtered overnight (Kumar et al. 2003).
An alternative method involves soaking the powder in a bucket overnight and steeping it using a cotton bag. The second option is to offer an extract. It usually includes several substances, carbohydrates, and amino acids dissolved in water. Compared to water, alcohol is a solvent for azadirachtin and other limonoids. Alcoholic extracts may contain approximately 0.26% of ingredients. They are generally 50 times more concentrated than the water extracts. The process of extraction with alcohol may resemble that of extraction with water (Table 4) (Chaudhary et al. 2017). Table 4 depicts the extraction techniques of neem and their utilization.
TABLE 4 Extraction techniques of neem and their utilization.
| Method | Description | Utilization | References |
| Water Extraction | The process involves boiling neem leaves or seeds in water and separating the extract through filtration. This technique utilizes water as a solvent to extract water-soluble components from neem. |
Neem extracts are utilized as organic insecticides, effectively repelling insects and pests from crops Face masks, tonics, and cleansers use neem water extract due to its potent antibacterial and antifungal properties Neem water extracts are utilized in shampoos and hair treatments to deal with dandruff and enhance scalp well-being |
Hashim et al. (2021) |
| Solvent Extraction | This technique entails the dissolution of neem plant components in an appropriate solvent to extract lipophilic substances, including oils and other bioactive elements. |
Manufacturers use neem oil from solvent extraction to make soaps, shampoos, lotions, and detergents Neem oil extracts produced using solvent extraction are used in pharmaceutical production to treat diverse conditions, including skin problems, infections, and inflammation Cosmetics use neem oil for its hydrating and antimicrobial properties |
Susmitha et al. (2013) |
| Cold Pressing | Cold pressing is a method that uses mechanical pressure to extract oil from neem seeds while maintaining the integrity of its natural qualities. | Neem oil extracted by the cold-pressing method is of superior quality and maintains a higher concentration of its inherent characteristics than alternative extraction techniques. It finds application in skincare products, hair oils, and medical formulations. | Hussein et al. (2021) |
| Steam Distillation | This technique employs steam to vaporize and transport essential oil molecules from neem plant components, which are subsequently condensed and gathered. |
Neem essential oil is used in aromatherapy because it is tranquilizing and alleviating Because of its unique scent, manufacturers use neem essential oil to create perfumes and scents Mosquito coils, sprays, and creams use neem essential oil as an effective natural insect repellent |
Babatunde et al. (2019) |
| CO2 Extraction | This technique utilizes supercritical CO2 as a solvent to extract lipophilic chemicals from neem plant materials, resulting in the production of extracts of superior quality. |
Because of its therapeutic qualities and gentle formulation, skincare and haircare products use CO2-extracted neem oil Pharmaceutical preparations use CO2-extracted neem oil because of its high purity and effectiveness in treating various health conditions. |
Hazarika et al. (2023) |
| Supercritical Fluid Extraction | This technique uses supercritical fluids, which possess characteristics of gases and liquids, to extract bioactive chemicals from neem plant components in a regulated manner. |
Supercritical fluid extraction produces neem oil with superior purity, making it suitable for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications Neem oil obtained through supercritical fluid extraction is used to produce herbal medicines for its therapeutic effects on the skin and overall health |
Chaudhary et al. (2021) |
Medicinal Uses
Ayurveda
Neem trees have been one of the major ingredients of traditional Indian Ayurvedic treatment since the prehistoric days. Neem bark, leaf, and oil extracts are used to treat various ailments, such as leprosy, constipation, and intestinal helminthiasis. Furthermore, it is vital to treat indolent ulcers, rheumatism, and chronic syphilitic sores (Kumar and Navaratnam 2013).
Neem oil is commonly used to treat various skin ailments. Blood morbidity, itching, skin ulcers, burning sensations, biliary disorders, and phthisis can be cured by combining fruits, bark, leaves, flowers, and roots. Young fruits and root barks are substitutes, antiperiodic, and tonic. Green twigs are used as toothbrushes and as preventive measures for teeth and mouth problems. Snake bites and scorpion stings are treated with bark, gum, leaves, and seeds. The bark treats nausea and vomiting and is astringent, bitter tonic, antiperiodic, and antipyretic (Sidat et al. 2023).
The gum is an effective demulcent for catarrhal conditions. Boils can be treated with a poultice made of leaves. Leaf decoction has been used as an antimicrobial agent for the treatment of dermatitis and ulcers. Dry flowers have stomach-like effects. Seed oil has stimulating, antibacterial, and alterative properties against rheumatism and skin conditions. Many toothpastes and tooth powders contain neem bark as an active element because neem bark kills germs. Dentistry is often used to treat gum problems and to keep teeth healthy. Neem oil can effectively treat leprosy and other skin conditions (Raja and Devarajan 2023).
Neem is always combined with other herbs in the Ayurvedic medical system to increase its potency and improve its flavor. Licorice, sugar, honey, lemon juice, and spices such as cardamom are pitta-balancing herbs that can be added to increase effectiveness or reduce adverse effects. Herbs and spices, such as orange peel, cinnamon, fennel seed, and licorice root, can also temper bitterness. In modern Ayurveda, neem has been recommended for diabetes mellitus, possibly by increasing the insulin receptor sensitivity (Kalaskar et al. 2021).
Homeopathy
In Homeopathy, the neem treats rheumatic discomfort, extremity pain, hand and foot pain, and sternal and rib pain. In addition, it is used to treat scabies, pemphigus, and eczema. It is also used for healing properties, such as reducing inflammation, fighting infections, and killing fungi and germs. People believe that Neem can assist with health issues such as diseases, fever, stomach problems, and skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne (Gupta 2022). However, it is crucial to note that further research is required to comprehend the safety and efficacy of neem in remedies, despite its history in medicine and some encouraging scientific data suggesting its potential health benefits.
Unani
Neem is used as a blood purifier and re-solvent. The leaves cure urinary tract sores and expel the wind. It is used to treat skin conditions and as an emmenagogue. Fruit serves as an astringent in bronchitis and leprosy (Reddy and Neelima 2022).
Therapeutic Potential
Historically, numerous ailments have been treated using various portions of the neem tree. Today, many neem formulations sold in the market are used to treat illnesses (Figure 3). Numerous clinical and pharmacological studies have been conducted on various neem components and commercially available formulations. Almost universally, outcomes have been reported to be remarkably good.
[IMAGE OMITTED. SEE PDF]
Antioxidant
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals are among the main factors leading to many diseases. One of the most important things you can do to stay healthy is to prevent free radicals from causing damage. Antioxidants prevent free radicals from damaging living cells by stabilizing them and rendering them inactive (Olajide et al. 2022). In addition, antioxidants help turn on an enzyme that prevents free radicals and ROS from causing damage (Liang et al. 2023). According to Bratovcic (2020), medicinal plants have been found to have antioxidant properties. Fruits, leaves, oil, bark, seeds, and roots are parts of plants that are high in antioxidants and lower the risk of getting sick. A study on the antioxidant activity of
Other findings have indicated that nimbolide, azadirachtin, and ascorbate have concentration-dependent free radical scavenging activity and reduction potential in the following order: nimbolide > azadirachtin > ascorbate. Azadirachtin and nimbolide treatment also prevented procarcinogen activation, oxidative DNA damage, and growth of antioxidant and carcinogen detoxification enzymes, which in turn prevented the formation of DMBA-induced HBP carcinomas (Nagini et al. 2021). According to Awada et al. (2023), the investigation results demonstrated that root bark extract has a higher degree of free radical scavenging activity, with 50% scavenging activity at 27.3 μg/mL. The total antioxidant activity was 0.68 mM of ascorbic acid standard (Bangar et al. 2024).
Anticancer
Health is endangered by intricate cancer. Alterations in genetic and molecular mechanisms induce cancer. Allopathic therapy benefits one aspect while damaging healthy cells (Moga et al. 2018). Flavonoids and other constituents included in neem are essential for cancer prevention. Multiple epidemiological studies have indicated a correlation between heightened flavonoid consumption and a reduced risk of cancer Santos et al. (2023).
Neem oil contains a variety of limonoids that mitigate the mutagenic effects of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (Lodi et al. 2025; Nagini et al. 2024). Human choriocarcinoma (BeWo) cells were used to examine the cytotoxic activity of nimbolide, which is present in leaves and flowers. The analysis indicates that nimbolide has proven successful in dose- and time-dependent growth inhibition in BeWo cells, with IC50 values of 2.11 and 1.29 M for 7 and 24 h, respectively (Bhamare et al. 2020).
A study found that nimbolide and azadirachtin prevented DMBA-induced HBP carcinomas by preventing procarcinogen activation, oxidative DNA damage, antioxidant and carcinogen detoxification enzymes, tumor invasion, and angiogenesis (Nagini et al. 2021).
[IMAGE OMITTED. SEE PDF]
Chemicals in
Apoptosis
The apoptotic process requires Bcl2 and Bax. Changes in bcl2 and bax promote tumor development. Various cancers affect these genes' activity. In a mouse in vivo 4 T1 breast cancer model, the extract increased apoptosis rates in the CN 250 and CN 500 groups compared to cancer controls. A previous study shows that the extract induces apoptosis in prostate cancer cells PC-3, killing them (Ibrahim et al. 2022).
Neem leaf extract dose-dependently decreased chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cell viability, with significant cell mortality at 0.06% (w/v) during 24 h. Leaf extract also increased Bim, caspase-8, and caspase-3 expression, suggesting it induces apoptosis at the receptor. Neem's main components and separated chemicals influence several locations and activate cancer cell death via apoptosis (Nagini et al. 2021).
Angiogenesis
Tumor development depends on angiogenesis, a complex process that supplies blood to tissue. Both activators and inhibitors control angiogenesis. Antiangiogenic medications that limit blood vessel expansion are essential to decreasing tumor growth. Medicinal herbs and their components prevent tumor growth by inhibiting angiogenesis (Ibrahim et al. 2022).
The ethanolic fraction of neem leaves as EFNL effectively lowers proangiogenic genes including vascular endothelial growth factor A and angiopoietin, according to extensive studies. Recent research suggests that the ethanolic fraction of neem leaf (EFNL), which inhibits angiogenesis, may reduce breast tumor volume and stop tumor progression (Azam et al. 2023).
Another study used HUVECs to examine the leaf extract's antiangiogenic effects. HUVECs treated with EENL showed decreased invasion, proliferation, and migration in vitro and VEGF-induced angiogenic response in vivo and in lab testing. A study on growing zebra fish employed different quantities of methanolic crude extract of water-soluble neem root fractions, imatinib (standard), and a control. Results revealed the extract may reduce angiogenesis (Hoseinkhani et al. 2020).
Anti-Ulcer
According to a clinical trial, nimbidin, a bitter component of neem, is highly beneficial for treating duodenal ulcers and reducing discomfort in the epigastric area. Palmitic acid and stearic acid (fatty acids) are found in the nimbidin component of neem oil (in seeds). Therefore, these two fatty acids are thought to be crucial for the ulcer-healing ability of nimbidin (Khanpara and Mavani 2022).
Highly effective antiacid secretory and anti-ulcer action has been discovered in an aqueous neem bark extract (NBE), and the bioactive component has also been linked to a glycoside. Neem is one of the ingredients of the medication “Bhunimbadi Ghanasar,” which is particularly efficient in treating the signs of “amlapitta” (acid dyspeptic illness) rather than causing any adverse effects. The crude extract, “Nimbatiktam,” is obtained directly from neem oil or seed kernels. The active ingredient was nimbidin (1.2% w/w). The medication effectively treats ulcers without causing adverse effects (Kumar et al. 2022).
Salanin, a liminoid bitter component of neem seed oil, also possesses ulcer-healing properties. Salamin showed protective efficacy against aspirin-induced stomach lesions in test animals at oral doses of 50, 10, and 20 mg/kg. The effectiveness of NBE as a prospective healing agent for treating stomach ulcers and hyperacidity and its standardization, safety assessment, and mode of action were recently explored by Wakodkar et al. (2021).
Anti-
Neem has a remarkable capacity to manage diseases that are directly transmitted. Neem provides 75% protection against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection (Soni et al. 2024). A 12-week oral course of (neem leaf) extract acetone water (IRAB) in HIV/AIDS patients significantly affected CD4 cells (which HIV decreases) in vivo without causing any adverse side effects. Fifty patients who received therapy and completed the study complied with all laboratory test requirements. In 50 patients, the average CD4 count increased by 159%. This is a notable improvement; the number of HIV/AIDS pathologies decreased from 120 baseline to 5, and significant gains were seen in body weight (12%), lymphocyte differential count (24%), and hemoglobin concentration (24%) IRAB is recommended as part of a therapy plan for HIV/AIDS. Neem may aid in screening for AIDS or act as a treatment when taken as part of a neem leaf tea or as individual neem leaves (Uzzaman 2020).
Autade et al. (2015) investigated the impact of neem plant extracts on bacterial and fungal pathogens associated with HIV-related opportunistic infections. Opportunistic infections mainly affect individuals with weakened immune systems and are the primary cause of mortality in HIV-infected patients. The antimicrobial activity of the acetone and chloroform extracts from neem leaf, fruit, and bark was examined using the agar well diffusion method against eight bacterial and two fungal diseases. The neem bark and leaf extracts obtained using acetone and chloroform exhibited the most potent inhibitory effect compared to the other treatments. A concentration of 30 mg extract on the disc was sufficient to inhibit most pathogens.
Another study by David et al. (2017) examined CEM T-cell damage from neem leaf extracts, Azadirachtin, and Limonene. The extracts were concentrated at 1 and 10 ppm, whereas the compounds were at 1 and 10 μm. 100% cell viability was attained with 1 ppm aqueous extract and 1 and 10 μm azadirachtin concentrations, similar to the control group (p > 0.05). For HIV infection prevention, the study assessed the aqueous extract at 1 ppm and azadirachtin at both levels using cytotoxicity data. Over 50% inhibition was observed, considerably different from the control group (p < 0.001). This study revealed azadirachtin and aqueous neem leaf extract protected HIV.
Hepatoprotective
Hepatoprotection without adverse effects requires key medicinal plant components. In rats, azadirachtin was tested for CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity prevention. Hepatocellular necrosis was dose-dependently decreased by azadirachtin pretreatment, according to histological and ultrastructural data. Additionally, greater doses of azadirachtin pretreatment partly normalized the rat liver (Baligar et al. 2014).
Neem's active component, nimbolide, protected rats' livers from CCl4 poisoning in another study. These findings show that nimbolide protects the liver from CCl4-induced liver damage as well as silymarin. Additionally, neem leaf extract protected rats against paracetamol-induced liver necrosis (Bharali et al. 2023). A study found that
Further experiments indicated that ethanolic and aqueous
Antimalarial
Neem contains antimalarial properties. Neem extracts have considerable impacts on Plasmodium falciparum, the human malarial parasite, growth and development in vivo and in vitro. The fact that neem components have antiplasmodium actions on parasites that traditional antimalarial drugs (pyrimethamine and chloroquine) do not affect suggests a novel mode of action (Mbugi et al. 2021).
Neem seed components are effective against both parasite stages that induce clinical manifestations and those that sustain malarial transmission. Limnoids (isomeldenin, meldenin, nimbandio, and nimocinol) derived from the ethanolic extract of fresh neem leaves are effective in combating the chloroquine-resistant strain K1 of P. falciparum malaria (Akram et al. 2020).
Parasitemia in infected mice was reduced by 51%–80% and 56%–87% with leaf and stem bark extracts, respectively (Rahmah et al. 2024). Early erythrocytic schizogony in P. berghei infected inbred mice has also been examined for the effects of methanolic extracts of seed kernels from ripe and unripe neem fruits (Mwingira et al. 2023).
Antifungal
In vitro antifungal efficacy of seed kernels and neem leaves against Penicillium expansum,
According to a recent study, using neem powder with acrylic resin denture base materials weakened
Another study showed that three sporulating fungi,
Antiviral
The neem plant (
The findings demonstrated that NBE, at doses ranging from 50 to 100 μg/mL, effectively prevented HSV-1 entry into cells (Garber et al. 2021). Neem bark directly inhibited HSV-1 when cultured with the virus instead of target cells. Neem leaf extract (NCL-11) reduces coxsackievirus B-4 reproduction and is virucidal, according to virus inactivation and yield reduction tests (Joshi and Prabhakar 2021).
Tiwari et al. (2010) revealed that an aqueous neem plant Azadirachta indica bark extract prevented HSV-1 from accessing its natural target cells. The NBE reduced HSV-1 entry into cells at 50–100 μg/mL dosages. Pre-incubating the extract with the virus showed NBE's inhibitory impact, but not with target cells. This shows that neem bark directly inhibits HSV-1. NBE also prevented virions from binding to cells, suggesting it blocks attachment. NBE inhibits HSV-1 glycoprotein-induced cell fusion and polykaryocyte formation. It appears that NBE also prevents viral fusion.
Neurological Protection
Animal studies have also shown that standardized neem extract has neuroprotective properties. Allodynia, hyperalgesia, motor coordination, and motor nerve conduction velocity were significantly decreased in animal models (caused by partial sciatic nerve ligation) (Hu et al. 2023). However, prolonged use of this extract greatly lessens such behavioral abnormalities (Adetuyi et al. 2023). Additionally, when studied in animal models, neem extract dramatically decreased the heightened inflammatory mediators, oxidative and nitrosative stress impact, and expression of Bax and iNOS in mRNA. Patients frequently experience chronic neuropathic pain, a well-known pain syndrome that is challenging for doctors to treat (Lozano et al. 2020).
Cisplatin has been applied as a potential neurotoxic medication in mammalian model studies that elevate nitric oxide and lipid peroxidation levels, while lowering glutathione levels. NLE has also been examined for its neuroprotective benefits, along with other medicinal herbs, and has demonstrated extremely effective curative actions against cisplatin (Moneim 2014).
Antidiabetic
In a trial to test neem root bark with 70% alcoholic extract, blood sugar levels were reduced at 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight. Blood sugar levels significantly decreased at higher doses of this extract (800 mg/kg body weight) and declined by 54% compared to the controls (Figure 5). Wistar albino rats of either sex that had been fasted overnight were assessed for basal blood sugar levels. In order to determine the antihyperglycemic effects of neem root bark extract (NRE), an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed 60 min after the administration of the reference drug (glibenclamide), the test drug (NRE) at doses of 200, 400, and 800 mg/kg, and blood glucose levels were measured every half an hour for 4 h. Hypoglycemic activity was assessed in rats that had been administered equal doses of alloxan once a day for 15 days. Blood sugar levels were estimated (Patil et al. 2013).
[IMAGE OMITTED. SEE PDF]
Antidiabetic properties of neem tree extract were studied. In diabetic rats,
Studies utilizing methanolic, chloroform, and solvent extracts of
Another noteworthy study revealed that
Wound-Healing
Neem leaves have been used for centuries as a folk remedy for wound mending. The benefits of neem oil in treating chronic, unhealed wounds were examined in one study, and the findings revealed that after 8 weeks of therapy, over 44% of patients had 50% wound healing (Figure 6) (Singh et al. 2014).
[IMAGE OMITTED. SEE PDF]
An experimental investigation performed by Chundran et al. (2015) aimed to gauge the neem leaves capacity for healing. Neem leaves (
Dentistry's Function
The neem extracts produced using several organic solvents exhibited antibacterial activity (Figure 7). Neem sticks, commercial toothbrushes, and toothpaste were compared in a comparative study to examine how well they removed plaque and maintained gingival health. The findings showed that there was no discernible difference between the two tooth cleaning methods and that both significantly reduced plaque and gingival scores compared to the comparison group (Bhambal et al. 2011).
[IMAGE OMITTED. SEE PDF]
According to preliminary studies, the amount of plaque on teeth can be reduced by the daily application of neem leaf concentrate-containing gel to the gums and teeth for approximately one and a half months. Additionally, it could reduce the number of germ cells that lead to plaque formation in the mouth. It is unclear whether using a mouthwash containing neem reduces plaque formation. The effectiveness of the antibacterial characteristics of neem extract against bacterial strains was assessed. The antibacterial efficacy of chloroform extract and petroleum ether against
Organic extracts of neem were prepared using a variety of solvents, including petroleum ether, chloroform, ethanol, and distilled water, and were then tested for their ability to kill microorganisms (Joel David 2021). Petroleum ether and chloroform extracts from neem outperformed the other three, with an inhibitory zone of 18 mm at 500 g against
Antidermatophytic
Neem has a surprising effect on chronic skin diseases, which sometimes do not improve with medication. It has been discovered that lotion application locally made from 70% neem leaf alcoholic extract is beneficial in treating chronic skin conditions such as scabies, eczema, and ringworm infection (Giuggioli et al. 2020).
Salicylic and benzoic acids are less efficient in treating ringworms than alcoholic neem leaf extract. It has been shown that a 4:1 blend of fresh neem leaves and turmeric powder is useful for treating scabies and using neem leaf extract, which has antidermatophytic action against a variety of dermatophytes, namely Trichophyton ruberum, Trichophyton violaceum, Trichophyton, Epidermophyton floccosum, Microsporum nanum, and Mentagrophytes (Tiple et al. 2024).
Neem Toxicity Levels and
It is essential to test the toxicity of natural compounds prior to their use in health treatment. Neem is safe at specific doses according to research based on animal models and clinical trials, although neem and its constituents have hazardous or detrimental effects (Islas et al. 2020).
According to several investigations, neem oil intoxication causes vomiting, liver toxicity, metabolic acidosis, and encephalopathy in children. According to a rat model-based investigation, administering leaf sap had an anxiolytic effect at low dosages but no such effect at higher levels. Significant research using rats as a model demonstrated that azadirachtin did not exhibit toxicity, even at 5 g/kg body weight (Raizada et al. 2001). Rabbit research was conducted to evaluate toxicological analyses. The study findings revealed that the body weights of test and control animals gradually increased. Neither group exhibited toxicity when neem extract was administered (Boadu et al. 2011).
According to a study's findings, neem oil LD50 values for acute toxicity tests were determined to be 31.95 g/kg (Deng et al. 2013). Another investigation into toxicity in chickens demonstrated that the clinical symptoms depend on the amount of the drug, and the intraperitoneal LD50 of neem leaf aqueous extract for acute poisoning was 4800 mg/kg (Biu et al. 2010). Neem leaf and stem bark extracts have fatal median doses (LD50) of 31.62 and 489.90 mg/kg body weight, respectively (Akin-Osanaiya et al. 2013). Water extracts of the leaves and seeds of
Neem's Multifaced Applications
Agricultural
Most scientists have concentrated their studies on agriculture to examine the advantages of neem in crop development. Neem oil, cake, leaves, and other neem tree components are now widely employed in the agricultural industry worldwide because of their discovery. Its primary agricultural applications are foliar pesticides, soil amendments, food storage insecticides, fertilizer efficiency enhancers, and soil amendments (Lokanadhan et al. 2012).
Pests can be managed without resorting to violence by using neem derivatives. Neem products interfere with the insect life cycle at various stages. They may not immediately kill the pest, but they may hinder it in several ways. Neem exerts effects such as stifling food and development, interference with mating, and chemical sterilization (Adusei and Azupio 2022).
Medicines
Fever is commonly treated with neem. It possesses antipyretic (fever-reducing) properties. Neem products also have analgesic (pain-reducing) and anti-inflammatory actions, making them effective for most common illnesses. Neem provides affordable, conveniently accessible, and locally produced medications. Different neem components can be used to treat various illnesses or disorders (Giri et al. 2019). Herbal remedies are used to treat various disorders in multiple regions worldwide. The neem tree, which plays a significant role in various herbal remedies, has been referenced in ancient medicine literature (Bhamare et al. 2020).
Traditional Indian medical experts regard this as the best available remedy. Because of Neem's unique qualities, its bark, flowers, roots, leaves, seeds, and fruit pulp have been used to treat various illnesses and complaints, including leprosy, diabetes, ulcers, skin conditions, and constipation. Multiple companies, including the Himalayas, produce neem medications. To create new antibiotics, scientists from the industrialized world are actively researching neem trees and their qualities (Wylie and Merrell 2022).
Cosmetics
Numerous products, including skin creams/lotions, soaps, toothpaste, shampoos, beauty products, and toiletries are made from various neem tree components. Branches from the neem are the most frequently used antibacterial toothbrushes. Most of the time, neem oil or extract is used to create cosmetics such as soaps and toothpaste (Uzwatania and Ningrum 2020). High-grade herbal cosmetics and beauty products frequently contain neem and its byproducts. Natural cosmetics are in high demand worldwide because of their effectiveness and lack of adverse effects. Body lotions, fairness creams, and hand creams made by reputable herbal product makers are in high demand in the US, the UK, and other countries. Neem oil and decoctions can be administered to the body with creams and lotions (Ahuja et al. 2021).
Additionally, it is used as a face cleanser, beauty booster, and radiant complexion. Numerous high-quality herbal, cosmetic, and personal hygiene items have been produced and exported using neem bark. Creams and lotions for the face and body were made from powdered leaves. It is necessary to maintain skin glowing and healthy. The shampoo contains neem leaf extracts that reduce dandruff. Owing to their antibacterial and antifungal properties, leaf granules are utilized in herbal face packs (Bhamare et al. 2020).
Food Storage
Infestations by worms, beetles, and other pests cause a significant portion of the food produced in all tropical regions to spoil during storage. People do not want to use chemical pesticides or synthetic bug sprays on grains that are being kept, particularly food that is being preserved for use (Campos et al. 2016). Neem oil has long provided farmers with a powerful defense against these insects. With no degradation or loss of flavor, a very thin coating of neem oil can shield stored food crops from all pests for up to 20 months. Food grains are protected from pests by storage in the neem leaves. When stored, neem leaves are pesticides. Because they absorb moisture from grains, dried neem leaves are used to store food grains. Although this is done on a limited scale, neem fresh leaves are also used sparingly to properly preserve food grains at home (Elvira and Wuryandari 2023).
Soil Amendment
Neem cake refers to a substance that is still present after oil removal from seed kernels. For millennia, the Indian subcontinent has used neem cake as a powerful soil improver. Farmers in this area have discovered that adding neem cake to soil results in healthier, more valuable plants with little to no insect or disease problems (Rani 2022).
Several studies have also been conducted to determine why plants thrive in soil combined with neem cake. Their findings demonstrated that neem cake is more decadent in plant-available nutrients than manure; it also eliminates harmful nematodes, encourages a large population of earthworms, helps maintain nitrogen availability for plants, and offers notable insect protection (Srivastava, David, et al. 2020; Srivastava, Agrawal, et al. 2020).
Nematodes suck fluid from plant roots to the point where the roots are unable to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. Subsequently, despite having enough food, water, and care, the plants appear ill, fail to thrive, and may finally perish. Neem cake first shields plants from insects and pests, enabling them to build a powerful defense against pest attacks. Second, Neem components absorbed via soil strengthen these built-in defensive mechanisms because of their well-known nutritional, antifungal, and insect-repelling qualities (Habib 2024).
Veterinarian Uses
Neem has been used to protect live animals for various reasons. Additionally, it has been extensively utilized as animal feed. The two brothers, Sahadeva and Nakul, who prepared remedies using neem oil and leaves to cure injured horses and elephants, are mentioned in the epic of the Mahabharata (3000 B.C.) (Shinde and Somani 2023).
Neem extracts with anti-ulcer, antibacterial, and antiviral characteristics successfully treat intestinal helminthiasis, stomach worms, and ulcers. Animals can be treated with any component of the neem plant, including gum, bark, leaves, fruits, and seeds (Modi and Soni 2023). Neem leaves are mainly used as antiviral medications against viruses that cause Newcastle disease, vaccinia, variola, foulfox, and other viruses. Swollen glands, bruising, and sprains can all be treated with a hot infusion of leaves. Bark is useful for the treatment of skin issues. Neem oil lowers blood sugar levels (Wasim et al. 2023).
Setaria cervi, a cow filarial parasite, is killed by aqueous and alcoholic neem flower preparation. Neem has long been used to control insects that affect cattle, such as hornflies, maggots, biting flies, and blow flies. The animals were fed neem oil, de-oiled neem seed cake, and neem leaves. Except for Zn, neem leaves contain many proteins, minerals, carotenoids, and trace minerals (Gopan et al. 2021).
Moreover, they comprise appreciable amounts of digestible crude protein (DCP) and total digestible minerals (TDMs). Neem leaves are fed to animals such as cattle, buffalo, goats, sheep, and camels. Neem oil, which is rich in long-chain fatty acids, is incorporated in poultry feed. De-oiled neem seed cake includes fiber, sulfur, nitrogen, and essential amino acids. The processed cake offers premium chicken feed and possesses a good aperitif and vermicidal effect (Oluwafemi and Oluwayinka 2020).
Neem leaves are also used in the poultry industry to combat aflatoxicosis, which is induced by Aspergillus flavus and caused by contaminated chicken feed. Neem leaf extract prevents the production of aflatoxin by Aspergillus parasiticus and patulin by Penicillium expansum (Khodaverdi et al. 2021).
Conclusion
Author Contributions
Tabussam Tufail: methodology (equal), writing – original draft (equal). Huma Bader Ul Ain: formal analysis (equal), visualization (equal). Aiman Ijaz: conceptualization (equal), supervision (equal). Muhammad Adnan Nasir: investigation (equal), resources (equal). Ali Ikram: supervision (equal), validation (equal). Sana Noreen: conceptualization (equal), visualization (equal). Muhammad Tayyab Arshad: data curation (equal), writing – review and editing (equal). Muhammed Adem Abdullahi: project administration (equal), writing – original draft (equal).
Acknowledgments
The authors sincerely acknowledge the College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, P. R. China, and the Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Innovative Research and Development and Digital Intelligent Manufacturing of TCM Great Health Products for providing valuable opportunities, resources, and support for conducting and advancing this research.
Disclosure
The authors have nothing to report.
Consent
This study did not involve humans.
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
Data Availability Statement
The data supporting the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Abbas, G., M. Ali, A. Hamaed, M. Al‐Sibani, H. Hussain, and A. Al‐Harrasi. 2020. “Azadirachta indica: The Medicinal Properties of the Global Problems‐Solving Tree.” In Biodiversity and Biomedicine, 305–316. Academic Press.
Adetuyi, B. O., K. A. Odelade, G. O. Odine, et al. 2023. “Neurorestorative Potential of Medicinal Plants and Their Phytochemicals.” In Phytochemical Drug Discovery for Central Nervous System Disorders: Biochemistry and Therapeutic Effects, 291–310. Wiley Online Library.
Adusei, S., and S. Azupio. 2022. “Neem: A Novel Biocide for Pest and Disease Control of Plants.” Journal of Chemistry 2022: 6778554.
Adyanthaya, S., V. Pai, and M. Jose. 2014. “Antimicrobial Potential of the Extracts of the Twigs of Azadirachta indica (Neem): An in Vitro Study.” Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies 2, no. 6: 53–57.
Agrawal, S., D. B. Popli, K. Sircar, and A. Chowdhry. 2020. “A Review of the Anticancer Activity of Azadirachta indica (Neem) in Oral Cancer.” Journal of Oral Biology and Craniofacial Research 10, no. 2: 206–209.
Ahuja, A., J. Gupta, and R. Gupta. 2021. “Miracles of Herbal Phytomedicines in Treatment of Skin Disorders: Natural Healthcare Perspective.” Infectious Disorders 21, no. 3: 328–338.
Akin‐Osanaiya, B. C., A. J. Nok, S. Ibrahim, et al. 2013. “Antimalarial Effect of Neem Leaf and Neem Stem Bark Extracts on Plasmodium berghei Infected in the Pathology and Treatment of Malaria.” International Journal of Research in Biochemistry and Biophysics 3, no. 1: 7–14.
Akram, M., M. Riaz, M. Daniyal, and R. Zainab. 2020. “Awareness and Current Therapeutic Strategies of Malaria.” In Phytochemicals as Lead Compounds for New Drug Discovery, 293–304. Elsevier.
Akter, M. S., D. Das, M. A. Z. Faruk, S. Das, and M. R. I. Tuhin. 2021. “Comparative Efficacy of Neem and Turmeric Extracts as Growth Promoter in Broilers.” International Journal of Natural and Social Sciences 8, no. 1: 58–65.
Alzohairy, M. A. 2016. “Therapeutics Role of Azadirachta indica (Neem) and Their Active Constituents in Diseases Prevention and Treatment.” Evidence‐based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2016: 7382506.
Amra, K., M. Momin, N. Desai, and F. Khan. 2022. “Therapeutic Benefits of Natural Oils Along With Permeation Enhancing Activity.” International Journal of Dermatology 61, no. 4: 484–507.
Aneesa, N. 2016. “Beneficial Effects of Neem Oil‐An Updated Review.” Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research 8, no. 8: 756.
Asghar, H. A., S. Q. Abbas, M. K. Arshad, et al. 2022. “Therapeutic Potential of Azadirachta Indica (Neem)‐a Comprehensive Review.” Scholars International Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine 5: 47–64.
Athraa, H. A. 2022. “Impact of Aqueous Extract of Neem Leaves in Lowering Blood Glucose and Lipid Profile in stz Induced Diabetes Mellitus Mice.” Iraqi Journal of Agricultural Sciences 53, no. 5: 977–984.
Autade, R. H., S. Saini, P. G. Reddy, S. C. Deorukhkar, and G. Padmajakshi. 2015. “Effect of Neem Extract Against Opportunistic Bacterial and Fungal Pathogens Associated With AIDS.” International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences 4, no. 3: 988–999.
Awada, N., A. Ayoub, A. Jaber, F. Ibrahim, N. El Ghotmi, and E. Cheble. 2023. “Evaluation of the Anticancer, Anti‐Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Properties of Various Extracts of Annona squamosa L.” Pharmaceutical Sciences 29, no. 3: 384–394.
Awadh, M. M., J. M. Kahindo, M. M. Swaleh, and H. M. Kiti. 2022. “A Systematic Review of Terpenoids in Azadirachta indica: Classes, Structures and Medicinal Uses.” Chemical Science International Journal 31: 27–43.
Awah, F. M., P. N. Uzoegwu, and P. Ifeonu. 2011. “In Vitro Anti‐HIV and Immunomodulatory Potentials of Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae) Leaf Extract.” African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology 5, no. 11: 1353–1359.
Azam, H., M. T. Khan, M. S. Lodhi, A. Sadiqa, and T. Yasin. 2023. “Therapeutic Role of Neem (Azadirachta indica Adr. Juss.) in Different Types of Cancer: A Systematic Review.” International Journal of Applied and Experimental Biology 2, no. 2: 97–113.
Azeem, M., M. Hanif, K. Mahmood, N. Ameer, F. R. S. Chughtai, and U. Abid. 2023. “An Insight Into Anticancer, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Antidiabetic and Anti‐Inflammatory Effects of Quercetin: A Review.” Polymer Bulletin 80, no. 1: 241–262.
Babatunde, D. E., G. O. Otusemade, V. E. Efeovbokhan, M. E. Ojewumi, O. P. Bolade, and T. F. Owoeye. 2019. “Chemical Composition of Steam and Solvent Crude Oil Extracts From Azadirachta indica Leaves.” Chemical Data Collections 20: 100208.
Bakr, A. 2012. “Changes of Hemoglobin Content and Glucose Levels in the Blood of Rattus norvegicus by Water Extracts of Azadirachta indica.” Chinese Journal of Natural Medicines 10, no. 2: 135–137.
Baligar, N. S., R. H. Aladakatti, M. Ahmed, and M. B. Hiremath. 2014. “Evaluation of Acute Toxicity of Neem Active Constituent, Nimbolide and Its Hepatoprotective Activity Against Acute Dose of Carbon Tetrachloride Treated Albino Rats.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research 5, no. 8: 3455.
Bangar, S. B., S. S. Bankar, A. S. Vibhute, et al. 2024. “Review on Therapeutic Approach of Anti‐Acne Treatment by Azadirachta indica and Ocimum gratissimum.” World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews 22, no. 2: 165–174.
Benelli, G., K. Murugan, C. Panneerselvam, P. Madhiyazhagan, B. Conti, and M. Nicoletti. 2015. “Old Ingredients for a New Recipe? Neem Cake, a Low‐Cost Botanical Byproduct in the Fight Against Mosquito‐Borne Diseases.” Parasitology Research 114: 391–397.
Bhamare, U. U., Y. S. Mali, and A. Z. Shaikh. 2020. “Neem: As a Natural Medicine.” Research Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry 12, no. 4: 245–255.
Bhambal, A., S. Kothari, S. Saxena, and M. Jain. 2011. “Comparative Effect of Neemstick and Toothbrush on Plaque Removal and Gingival Health—A Clinical Trial.” Journal of Advanced Oral Research 3, no. 3: 51–56.
Bharali, P. J., S. K. Bordoloi, S. Das, and K. Lahon. 2023. “Effect of Chronic Administration of Aqueous Extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Leaves on Paracetamol‐Induced Hepatotoxicity in Wistar Albino Rats.” Current Perspectives on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants 5, no. 2: 146–161.
Bhat, I. A., B. A. Bhat, S. Vishwakarma, A. Verma, and G. Saxena. 2012. “Acute Toxicity and Behavioural Responses of Labeo rohita (Hamilton) to a Biopesticide “NEEM‐ON”.” Current World Environment: An International Research Journal of Environmental Sciences 7, no. 1: 175.
Biswal, R. P., D. P. Patnana, S. K. Pulukool, V. Sivaramakrishnan, A. Pargaonkar, and R. B. Dandamudi. 2021. “Triterpene Profiling of Neem Exudate (Toddy) Using UHPLC‐QTOF‐MS and Its Anti‐Inflammatory Activity.” Planta Medica International Open 8, no. 01: e25–e33.
Biu, A. A., S. D. Yusufu, and J. S. Rabo. 2010. “Acute Toxicity Study on Neem (Azadirachta indica, Juss) Leaf Aqueous Extract in Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus).” African scientist 11, no. 4: 241–244.
Boadu, K. O., S. K. Tulashie, M. A. Anang, and J. D. Kpan. 2011. “Pelagia Research Library.” European Journal of Experimental Biology 1, no. 2: 160–171.
Bolaji, O., Y. A. Abolade, S. Aduwa, et al. 2024. “Potential Health and Environmental Benefits of the Identified Phytochemicals Screening of (Azadirachta indica) Neem Leaves in Bauchi Metropolis, Bauchi State, Nigeria.” GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences 26, no. 3: 68–83.
Bopanna, K. N., J. Kannan, S. Gadgil, R. Balaraman, and S. P. Rathod. 1997. “Antidiabetic and Antihyperlipaemic Effects of Neem Seed Kernel Powder on Alloxan Diabetic Rabbits.” Indian Journal of Pharmacology 29, no. 3: 162–167.
Braga, T. M., L. Rocha, T. Y. Chung, et al. 2020. “Biological Activities of Gedunin—A Limonoid From the Meliaceae Family.” Molecules 25, no. 3: 493.
Bratovcic, A. 2020. “Antioxidant Enzymes and Their Role in Preventing Cell Damage.” Acta Scientifci Nutritional Health 4: 1–7.
Campos, E. V., J. L. De Oliveira, M. Pascoli, R. De Lima, and L. F. Fraceto. 2016. “Neem Oil and Crop Protection: From Now to the Future.” Frontiers in Plant Science 7: 1494.
Chandramohan, B., K. Murugan, P. Madhiyazhagan, et al. 2016. “Neem Byproducts in the Fight Against Mosquito‐Borne Diseases: Biotoxicity of Neem Cake Fractions Towards the Rural Malaria Vector Anopheles Culicifacies (Diptera: Culicidae).” Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine 6, no. 6: 472–476.
Chaudhary, M. F., A. Ashraf, M. Waseem, et al. 2021. “Neem Oil.” In Green Sustainable Process for Chemical and Environmental Engineering and Science, 57–73. Elsevier.
Chaudhary, S., R. K. Kanwar, A. Sehgal, et al. 2017. “Progress on Azadirachta indica Based Biopesticides in Replacing Synthetic Toxic Pesticides.” Frontiers in Plant Science 8: 226969.
Cheng, X., J. Huang, H. Li, et al. 2024. “Quercetin: A Promising Therapy for Diabetic Encephalopathy Through Inhibition of Hippocampal Ferroptosis.” Phytomedicine 126: 154887. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154887.
Chundran, N. K., I. R. Husen, and I. Rubianti. 2015. “Effect of Neem Leaves Extract (Azadirachta indica) on Wound Healing.” Althea Medical Journal 2, no. 2: 199–203.
Dandekar, N. V., and J. J. Winnier. 2020. “Assessment of Antiplaque and Anti‐Gingivitis Efficacy of Mouthwashes Prepared From Neem and Mango Extracts.” Frontiers in Dentistry 17: 11.
Das, R., A. Mukherjee, I. Sinha, K. Roy, and B. K. Dutta. 2020. “Synthesis of potential bio‐adsorbent from Indian Neem leaves (Azadirachta indica) and its optimization for malachite green dye removal from industrial wastes using response surface methodology: kinetics, isotherms and thermodynamic studies.” Applied Water Science 10, no. 5: 1–18.
Datta, A., I. U. Grün, M. T. Kwasniewski, and L. N. Fernando. 2017. “Comparison of Two Adsorbent Based de‐Bittering Procedures for Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) tea‐Effect on Polyphenols, Antioxidant Capacity, Color and Volatile Profile.” Plant Foods for Human Nutrition 72: 88–95.
David, P. E., S. G. Benjamín, E. Á. Delia, N. H. Patricia, and V. M. del Carmen. 2017. “HIV‐1 Infection Inhibition by Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) Leaf Extracts and Azadirachtin.” Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge 16, no. 3: 437–441.
de Sá Leitão, D. A. H., A. K. dos Santos Oliveira, D. B. Castro, and E. M. R. Pedrosa. 2022. “Neem Cake Amendment and Soil Nematode Spatio‐Temporal Dynamics: A Case Study in the Brazilian Semiarid Region.” In Sustainable Management of Nematodes in Agriculture, Vol. 1: Organic Management, 423–440. Springer International Publishing.
Deng, Y. X., M. Cao, D. X. Shi, et al. 2013. “Toxicological Evaluation of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Oil: Acute and Subacute Toxicity.” Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology 35, no. 2: 240–246.
Devi, J., and R. B. Sharma. 2023. “Medicinal Importance of Azadirachta indica: An Overview.” Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics 13, no. 6: 159–165.
Dholi, S. K., R. Raparla, S. K. Mankala, and K. Nagappan. 2011. “Invivo Antidiabetic Evaluation of Neem Leaf Extract in Alloxan Induced Rats.” Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science Issue: 100–105.
Di Petrillo, A., G. Orrù, A. Fais, and M. C. Fantini. 2022. “Quercetin and Its Derivates as Antiviral Potentials: A Comprehensive Review.” Phytotherapy Research 36, no. 1: 266–278.
Dutt, Y., R. P. Pandey, M. Dutt, et al. 2023. “Silver Nanoparticles Phytofabricated Through Azadirachta indica: Anticancer, Apoptotic, and Wound‐Healing Properties.” Antibiotics 12, no. 1: 121.
Elvira, N. D., and Y. Wuryandari. 2023. “Utilization of Neem Leaves as a Biological Pesticide for the Control of Anthrachnose Diseases in Dragons (Hylocereus sp.).” Nusantara Science and Technology Proceedings: 36–40. https://doi.org/10.11594/nstp.2023.3109.
Ersoz, M., A. Erdemir, S. Derman, T. Arasoglu, and B. Mansuroglu. 2020. “Quercetin‐Loaded Nanoparticles Enhance Cytotoxicity and Antioxidant Activity on C6 Glioma Cells.” Pharmaceutical Development and Technology 25, no. 6: 757–766.
Falana, M. B., and Q. O. Nurudeen. 2020. “Analysis of Secondary Metabolites and in Vitro Evaluation of Extracts of Carica papaya and Azadirachta indica Leaves on Selected Human Pathogens.” Notulae Scientia Biologicae 12, no. 1: 57–73.
Forim, M. R., D. S. M. F. Fernandes, J. B. Fernandes, and P. C. Vieira. 2014. Processo de Obtenção de Nanopartículas Biopoliméricas Contendo óleo e Extratos de Azadirachta indica a. juss (neem), Nanopartículas Biopoliméricas e Micropartículas em pó. Google Patents.
Gadge, S. S. 2021. “Antiviral and Immunity‐Modulating Natural Herbs in the Prevention of COVID‐19.” Research Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry 13, no. 2: 81–94.
Garber, A., L. Barnard, and C. Pickrell. 2021. “Review of Whole Plant Extracts With Activity Against Herpes Simplex Viruses in Vitro and in Vivo.” Journal of Evidence‐Based Integrative Medicine 26: 2515690X20978394.
Gbotolorun, S. C., A. A. Osinubi, C. C. Noronha, and A. O. Okanlawon. 2008. “Antifertility Potential of Neem Flower Extract on Adult Female Sprague‐Dawley Rats.” African Health Sciences 8, no. 3: 168–173.
Gill, M. K., R. R. Patyar, and S. Patyar. 2020. “Antitubercular Drug Induced Hepatotoxicity: A Review.” European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine 7, no. 7: 2840–2847.
Giri, R. P., A. K. Gangawane, and S. G. Giri. 2019. “Neem the Wonder Herb: A Short Review.” International Journal of Trend in Scientific Research and Development 3, no. 3: 962–967.
Giuggioli, D., F. Lumetti, A. Spinella, et al. 2020. “Use of Neem Oil and Hypericum perforatum for Treatment of Calcinosis‐Related Skin Ulcers in Systemic Sclerosis.” Journal of International Medical Research 48, no. 4: 0300060519882176.
Gopan, A., M. K. Maiti, T. Varghese, et al. 2021. “Nutritional Evaluation of Protein Isolate From Neem Seed Cake in Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822) Fingerlings Concomitant With Oil Extraction Processing Industry.” Animal Feed Science and Technology 274: 114858.
Gupta, A. K. 2022. “Use of Neem and Neem Based Products in Organic Farming.” Indian Farming 72, no. 1: 39–40
Habib, D. W. 2024. “Phytoremediation Potential of Senna (Senna occidentalis) and Neem (Azadirachta indica) in Detoxification of Soils Contaminated with Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu) and Lead (Pb).” Journal of Integrated Sciences.
Hamid, S. K., A. H. AlDubayan, L. A. Alghamdi, et al. 2021. “Mechanical, Surface, and Optical Properties of PMMA Denture Base Material Modified With Azadirachta indica as an Antifungal Agent.” Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice 22, no. 6: 655–664.
Hashim, N., S. Abdullah, L. S. Hassan, S. R. Ghazali, and R. Jalil. 2021. “A Study of Neem Leaves: Identification of Method and Solvent in Extraction.” Materials Today: Proceedings 42: 217–221.
Hazarika, A., C. Bhuyan, and M. Yadav. 2023. “Isolation, Purification, and Characterization of Carbonic Anhydrase From Azadirachta indica (Neem) Leaves and Its CO2 Sequestration Efficiency.” Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology 53: 102855.
HNSKTavva, H., V. Mamillapalli, V. Rallapalli, Z. Mohammed, and P. Kantamaneni. 2023. “Potential of Phytoconstituents as Anti‐Ulcerr Agents.” NeuroQuantology 21, no. 1: 304.
Hodgson, H., R. De La Peña, M. J. Stephenson, et al. 2019. “Identification of Key Enzymes Responsible for Protolimonoid Biosynthesis in Plants: Opening the Door to Azadirachtin Production.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 116, no. 34: 17096–17104.
Hoseinkhani, Z., F. Norooznezhad, M. Rastegari‐Pouyani, and K. Mansouri. 2020. “Medicinal Plants Extracts With Antiangiogenic Activity: Where Is the Link?” Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin 10, no. 3: 370–378.
Hu, E., Z. Li, T. Li, et al. 2023. “A Novel Microbial and Hepatic Biotransformation‐Integrated Network Pharmacology Strategy Explores the Therapeutic Mechanisms of Bioactive Herbal Products in Neurological Diseases: The Effects of Astragaloside IV on Intracerebral Hemorrhage as an Example.” Chinese Medicine 18, no. 1: 40. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13020‐023‐00745‐5.
Hussein, J. B., J. O. Y. Ilesanmi, H. A. Yahuza, and I. Nkama. 2021. “Effect of Extraction Methods and Storage Time on the Yield and Qualities of Neem Seed (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) Oil.” Nigerian Journal of Technological Development 18, no. 1: 55–62.
Ibrahim, O. H., M. A. Mousa, K. A. Asiry, N. A. Alhakamy, and K. A. Abo‐Elyousr. 2022. “Azadirachta indica A. Juss Fruit Mesocarp and Epicarp Extracts Induce Antimicrobial and Antiproliferative Effects Against Prostate (PC‐3), breast (MCF‐7), and Colorectal Adenocarcinoma (Caco‐2) Cancer Cell Lines Through Upregulation of Proapoptotic Genes.” Plants 11, no. 15: 1990.
Iman, M., M. Taheri, and Z. Bahari. 2022. “The Anticancer Properties of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Through Its Antioxidant Activity in the Liver: Its Pharmaceutics and Toxic Dosage Forms. A Literature Review.” Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine 19, no. 2: 203–211.
Islas, J. F., E. Acosta, G. Zuca, et al. 2020. “An Overview of Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Its Potential Impact on Health.” Journal of Functional Foods 74: 104171.
Itoh, K., T. Matsukawa, M. Okamoto, et al. 2020. “In Vitro Antioxidant Activity of Mangifera indica Leaf Extracts.” Journal of Plant Studies 9, no. 2: 39.
Jain, S., A. Ganeshpurkar, and N. Dubey. 2020. “Molecular Docking of Some Neem Constituents With COX‐2 and NOs: An in Silico Study.” Pharmacognosy Communications 10, no. 3: 134–135.
Joel David, S. 2021. “Effectiveness of Azardirachta indica (Neem Extract) Mouth Rinse on Plaque and Gingival Health‐An Interventional Study.” Doctoral dissertation, Bbdcods.
John, A., and H. Raza. 2023. “Azadirachtin Attenuates Carcinogen Benzo (a) Pyrene‐Induced DNA Damage, Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis, Inflammatory, Metabolic, and Oxidative Stress in HepG2 Cells.” Antioxidants 12, no. 11: 2001.
Joshi, M., and B. Prabhakar. 2021. “Azadirachta indica (neem) in Various Infectious Diseases.” In Herbal Medicine: Back to the Future: Volume 4, Infectious Diseases 4, 128. https://doi.org/10.2174/9789811458712121040007.
Juma, P., N. Njau, C. M. Micheni, H. A. Khan, O. W. Mitalo, and D. Odongo. 2022. “Trends in Neem (Azadirachta indica)‐based Botanical Pesticides.” In New and Future Development in Biopesticide Research: Biotechnological Exploration, 137–156. Springer Nature Singapore.
Kalaskar, A. R., R. R. Bhowate, R. R. Kalaskar, and S. Ghonmode. 2021. “Novel Neem Leaves Extract Mouthwash Therapy for Oral Lichen Planus.” Journal of Herbal Medicine 26: 100408.
Kandhare, A. D., A. A. Mukherjee, and S. L. Bodhankar. 2017. “Neuroprotective Effect of Azadirachta indica Standardized Extract in Partial Sciatic Nerve Injury in Rats: Evidence From Anti‐Inflammatory, Antioxidant and Anti‐Apoptotic Studies.” EXCLI Journal 16: 546–565.
Khan, M. F., and S. M. Ahmed. 2000. “Toxicity of Crude Neem Leaf Extract Against Housefly Musca domestica L. Adults as Compared With DDVP, Dichlorvos.” Turkish Journal of Zoology 24, no. 2: 219–224.
Khanpara, P., and P. Mavani. 2022. “A Review on Herbal Plants Used in Peptic Ulcer.” Journal of Medicinal Plants Studies 10: 122–130.
Khodaverdi, M., R. Karami‐Osboo, L. Hosseinian, and M. Mirabolfathy. 2021. “Evaluation of the Effect of Neem Extract Formulation on Reducing Aflatoxin‐Producing Fungi in Pistachio.” Pistachio and Health Journal 4, no. 3: 16–24.
Kilani‐Morakchi, S., H. Morakchi‐Goudjil, and K. Sifi. 2021. “Azadirachtin‐Based Insecticide: Overview, Risk Assessments, and Future Directions.” Frontiers in Agronomy 3: 676208.
Kishore, S. G., P. Rajkumar, P. Sudha, et al. 2023. “Impact of Different Drying Techniques on Neem Seeds Drying Kinetics and Oil Quality.” Journal of Food Quality 2023, no. 1: 6259211.
Kumar, A. R. V., H. C. Jayadevi, H. J. Ashoka, and K. Chandrashekara. 2003. “Azadirachtin Use Efficiency in Commercial Neem Formulations.” Current Science 11: 1459–1464.
Kumar, D., A. Rahal, and J. K. Malik. 2016. “Neem Extract.” In Nutraceuticals, 585–597. Academic Press.
Kumar, S., N. Singh, L. S. Devi, et al. 2022. “Neem Oil and Its Nanoemulsion in Sustainable Food Preservation and Packaging: Current Status and Future Prospects.” Journal of Agriculture and Food Research 7: 100254.
Kumar, V. S., and V. Navaratnam. 2013. “Neem (Azadirachta indica): Prehistory to Contemporary Medicinal Uses to Humankind.” Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine 3, no. 7: 505–514.
Kumari, P., N. Geat, S. Maurya, and S. Meena. 2020. “Neem: Role in Leaf Spot Disease Management: A Review.” Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry 9, no. 1: 1995–2000.
Kumari, P., and M. Singh. 2024. “The Biochemical Wonders of Azadirachta indica A. Juss: A Comprehensive Review of Its Properties and Potential Benefits.” Journal of Stress Physiology & Biochemistry 20, no. 2: 90–98.
Lakshmi, T., V. Krishnan, R. Rajendran, and N. Madhusudhanan. 2015. “Azadirachta indica: A Herbal Panacea in Dentistry–an Update.” Pharmacognosy Reviews 9, no. 17: 41–44.
Latif, M. J., S. M. Hassan, S. S. Mughal, et al. 2020. “Therapeutic Potential of Azadirachta Indica (Neem) and Their Active Phytoconstituents Against Diseases Prevention.” J Chem Cheml Sci 10, no. 3: 98–110.
Liang, M., T. Li, Y. Qu, et al. 2023. “Mitigation Mechanism of Resveratrol on Thermally Induced Trans‐α‐Linolenic Acid of Trilinolenin.” LWT 189: 115508. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lwt.2023.115508.
Lodi, R. S., X. Jia, P. Yang, et al. 2025. “Whole Genome Sequencing and Annotations of Trametes sanguinea ZHSJ.” Scientific Data 12, no. 1: 1460. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41597‐025‐05798‐9.
Lokanadhan, S., P. Muthukrishnan, and S. Jeyaraman. 2012. “Neem Products and Their Agricultural Applications.” Journal of Biopesticides 5: 72.
Lozano, M. H., M. F. O. Sánchez, R. V. G. Rodríguez, et al. 2020. “Pharmaceutical and Botanical Management of Pain Associated With Psychopathology: A Narrative Review.” In Behavioral Pharmacology‐From Basic to Clinical Research. Intechopen.
Luo, P., X. Feng, S. Liu, and Y. Jiang. 2024. “Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Toxicology of Ruta graveolens L.: A Critical Review and Future Perspectives.” Drug Design, Development and Therapy 18: 6459–6485. https://doi.org/10.2147/DDDT.S494417.
Mbah, A. U., I. J. Udeinya, E. N. Shu, et al. 2007. “Fractionated Neem Leaf Extract Is Safe and Increases CD4+ Cell Levels in HIV/AIDS Patients.” American Journal of Therapeutics 14, no. 4: 369–374.
Mbugi, E. V., A. S. Sife, M. Ruzegea, et al. 2021. “Effectiveness of Azadirachta indica (Neem Tree) on Prevention and Treatment of Clinical Human Malaria: A Systematic Review.” East Africa Science 3, no. 1: 34–43.
Modi, G., and R. K. Soni. 2023. “Azadirachta indica in Focus: Investigating Neem's Diverse Applications.” Journal of Chemical Health Risks 13, no. 3: 1500–1510.
Moga, M. A., A. Bălan, C. V. Anastasiu, O. G. Dimienescu, C. D. Neculoiu, and C. Gavriș. 2018. “An Overview on the Anticancer Activity of Azadirachta indica (Neem) in Gynecological Cancers.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences 19, no. 12: 3898.
Moin, S., H. Khan, R. Yadav, M. Asif, and N. Ahamad. 2022. Pharmacological Properties of Neem–A Review.
Moneim, A. E. A. 2014. “Azadirachta indica Attenuates Cisplatin‐Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats.” Indian Journal of Pharmacology 46, no. 3: 316–321.
Muhammad, A., and M. A. Kashere. 2020. “Neem, Azadirachta indica L.(A. Juss): An Eco‐Friendly Botanical Insecticide for Managing Farmers’ Insects Pest Problems – A Review.” FUDMA Journal of Sciences 4, no. 4: 484–491.
Mwingira, F. W., D. J. Matiya, and N. G. Mogha. 2023. “Ethnobotanical Survey on the Knowledge and Use of Medicinal Plants for Malaria Management Among University Students.” Tanzania Journal of Science 49, no. 3: 656–666.
Nagano, M. S., and C. Batalini. 2021. “Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant Activity and Potential Toxicity of Azadirachta indica A. Juss (Neem) Leaves.” Revista Colombiana de Ciencias Químico‐Farmacéuticas 50, no. 1: 29–47.
Nagini, S., R. Nivetha, M. Palrasu, and R. Mishra. 2021. “Nimbolide, a Neem Limonoid, Is a Promising Candidate for the Anticancer Drug Arsenal.” Journal of Medicinal Chemistry 64, no. 7: 3560–3577.
Nagini, S., M. Palrasu, and A. Bishayee. 2024. “Limonoids From Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) are Potential Anticancer Drug Candidates.” Medicinal Research Reviews 44, no. 2: 457–496.
Nicoletti, M., M. Serafini, A. Aliboni, A. D'Andrea, and S. Mariani. 2010. “Toxic Effects of Neem Cake Extracts on Aedes albopictus (Skuse) Larvae.” Parasitology Research 107: 89–94.
Nwanekezie, M. N., J. N. Ndive, I. L. Ogbonna, and G. O. Sebe. 2023. “Comprehensive Physicochemical Profiling and Characterization of Neem Plant Leaf Extracts: Insights for Pharmaceutical & Biomedical Applications.” Advances in Chemical Engineering and Science 13, no. 4: 382–399.
Ogidi, O. I., M. NoahAyebabogha, P. U. Eze, O. Okiemute, and C. E. Okafor. 2021. “Determination of Phytoconstituents and Antimicrobial Activities of aQueous and Methanol Extracts of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Leaves.” International Journal of Pharmacognosy and Chemistry: 60–67.
Oktavia, S. N., and I. Ifora. 2022. “Anti‐Inflammatory, Analgesic, and Antipyretic Potential of Azadirachta indica: A Review.” Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics 12, no. 3‐S: 245–254.
Olajide, P. A., O. S. Omowumi, and G. O. Odine. 2022. “Pathogenesis of Reactive Oxygen Species: A Review.” World News of Natural Sciences 44: 150–164.
Oluwafemi, R. A., and E. Oluwayinka. 2020. “Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Neem Oil (Azadirachtaindica) on the Growth Performance and Nutrient Digestibility of Weaned Rabbits.” Journal of Science, Computing and Engineering Research 1, no. 4: 100–105.
Onyimonyi, A. E., A. Olabode, and G. C. Okeke. 2009. “Performance and Economic Characteristics of Broilers Fed Varying Dietary Levels of Neem Leaf Meal (Azadirachta indica).” International Journal of Poultry Science 8, no. 3: 256–259.
Patil, P., S. Patil, A. Mane, and S. Verma. 2013. “Antidiabetic Activity of Alcoholic Extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Root Bark.” National Journal of Physiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology 3, no. 2: 142.
Patil, S. M., P. S. Shirahatti, and R. Ramu. 2022. “Azadirachta indica A. Juss (Neem) Against Diabetes Mellitus: A Critical Review on Its Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology.” Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology 74, no. 5: 681–710.
Petrera, E. 2015. “Antiviral and Immunomodulatory Properties of Meliaceae Family.” Journal of Biologically Active Products from Nature 5, no. 4: 241–254.
Prakash, D. I. V. Y. A., M. A. N. S. I. Saini, N. A. M. I. T. O. S. H. Tyagi, A. Y. U. S. H. Madan, and R. A. J. I. V. Dutta. 2021. “A Mystical Plant Azadirachta indica Used as Phytomedicine: State‐Of‐The‐Art.” Plant Cell Biotechnology and Molecular Biology: 575–583. https://doi.org/10.1093/jpp/rgab098.
Qin, D., P. Zhang, Y. Zhou, et al. 2020. “Antifeeding Effects of Azadirachtin on the Fifth Instar Spodoptera litura Larvae and the Analysis of Azadirachtin on Target Sensilla Around Mouthparts.” Archives of Insect Biochemistry and Physiology 103, no. 4: e21646.
Rahaman, A., S. A. Azmal, S. M. Matin, N. Haque, M. R. Amin, and M. A. Kabir. 2022. “Effect of Neem and Tamarind Leaves as Anthelmintic in Cattle.” Journal of Diseases and Medicinal Plants 8, no. 1: 13–15.
Rahmah, Z., C. H. Arif, A. Milliana, N. Indriana, and A. Nashichuddin. 2024. “Prevention of Cerebral Malaria Hypoxia Through Administration of Neem Leaves Extract (Azadirachta indica) in Mice C57BL.” Prevention of Cerebral Malaria Hypoxia Through Administration of Neem Leaves Extract (Azadirachta indica) in Mice C57BL 17, no. 1: 201–207.
Raizada, R. B., M. K. Srivastava, R. A. Kaushal, and R. P. Singh. 2001. “Azadirachtin, a Neem Biopesticide: Subchronic Toxicity Assessment in Rats.” Food and Chemical Toxicology 39, no. 5: 477–483.
Raja, T., and Y. Devarajan. 2023. “Effective Utilization of Fibre Extracted From the Waste Neem Tree Twigs—A Step Towards Sustainable Practices.” Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery 14: 1–9.
Rani, N. 2022. “Rejuvenating Soil Health Using Organic Manures for Sustainable Agriculture.” In New and Future Developments in Microbial Biotechnology and Bioengineering, 181–198. Elsevier.
Reddy, I. V., and P. Neelima. 2022. “Neem (Azadirachta Indica): A Review on Medicinal Kalpavriksha.” International Journal of Economic Plants 9, no. 1: 59–63.
Roy, A., and S. Saraf. 2006. “Limonoids: Overview of Significant Bioactive Triterpenes Distributed in Plants Kingdom.” Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin 29, no. 2: 191–201.
Sandhir, R., M. Khurana, and N. K. Singhal. 2021. “Potential Benefits of Phytochemicals From Azadirachta indica Against Neurological Disorders.” Neurochemistry International 146: 105023.
Santos, K. S., C. Costa, M. J. Bessa, et al. 2023. “Azadirachta indica A. Juss (Neem) Phenolic Extract Inhibits Human B‐Lymphoblastoid Cells Growth via Cell Cycle Arrest, Apoptosis Induction, and DNA Damage.” Exploration of Foods and Foodomics 1, no. 3: 130–142.
Sarkar, S., R. P. Singh, and G. Bhattacharya. 2021. “Exploring the Role of Azadirachta indica (Neem) and Its Active Compounds in the Regulation of Biological Pathways: An Update on Molecular Approach.” 3 Biotech 11, no. 4: 178.
Saxena, R. C., G. Jilani, and A. A. Kareem. 2018. “Effects of Neem on Stored Grain Insects.” In Focus on Phytochemical Pesticides, 97–112. CRC Press.
Semere, A. 2023. “Success Story: Extraction Method of Neem Oil From Neem Seed Kernel in Eritrea.” Journal of Agriculture and Ecology 15: 125–128.
Sharma, A., and M. Paliwal. 2021. “An Analysis of Several Medical Properties of Neem.” Asian Journal of Research in Social Sciences and Humanities 11, no. 11: 785–791.
Shinde, M. D., and S. Somani. 2023. “Development, Design and Evaluation of Herbal Neem Soap.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences 1, no. 12: 1.
Shishupala, S. 2024. “Ethnomedicinal and Current Applications of Neem (Azadirachta indica).” Ethnic Knowledge and Perspectives of Medicinal Plants. 1st Edition, 287–309. Apple Academic Press.
Sidat, P., S. Modh, N. Chavda, V. Chauhan, G. Kankura, and A. Dindoliwala. 2023. “Neem (Azadirachta indica): A Panacea of all Diseases.” Journal of Pharmaceutical Research 22, no. 1: 2.
Singh, A., A. Chatterjee, S. Rakshit, G. Shanmugam, L. M. Mohanty, and K. Sarkar. 2022. “Neem Leaf Glycoprotein in Immunoregulation of Cancer.” Human Immunology 83, no. 11: 768–777.
Singh, A., A. K. Singh, G. Narayan, T. B. Singh, and V. K. Shukla. 2014. “Effect of Neem Oil and Haridra on Non‐Healing Wounds.” AYU (An International Quarterly Journal of Research in Ayurveda) 35, no. 4: 398–403.
Sithisarn, P., C. U. Carlsen, M. L. Andersen, W. Gritsanapan, and L. H. Skibsted. 2007. “Antioxidative Effects of Leaves From Azadirachta Species of Different Provenience.” Food Chemistry 104, no. 4: 1539–1549.
Soni, S., U. Noor, E. Amiri, and E. Gupta. 2024. “Novel Importance of Herbs and Their Effects on Human Health.” In Immune‐Boosting Nutraceuticals for Better Human Health, 29–46. Apple Academic Press.
Srivastava, M., A. A. David, N. Swaroop, and T. Thomas. 2020. “Response of Different Levels of FYM, Vermicompost and Neem Cake on Soil Health Yield Attribute and Nutritional Value of Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.) var. Kashi Mukti.” International Journal of Current Microbiology and Applied Sciences 9: 1679–1689.
Srivastava, S. K., B. Agrawal, A. Kumar, and A. Pandey. 2020. “Phytochemicals of Azadirachta Indica Source of Active Medicinal Constituent Used for Cure of Various Diseases: A Review.” Journal of Scientific Research 64, no. 1: 385–390.
Subapriya, R., and S. Nagini. 2005. “Medicinal Properties of Neem Leaves: A Review.” Current Medicinal Chemistry. Anti‐Cancer Agents 5, no. 2: 149–156.
Sudhakaran, G., P. Prathap, A. Guru, et al. 2022a. “Reverse Pharmacology of Nimbin‐N2 Attenuates Alcoholic Liver Injury and Promotes the Hepatoprotective Dual Role of Improving Lipid Metabolism and Downregulating the Levels of Inflammatory Cytokines in Zebrafish Larval Model.” Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry 477, no. 10: 2387–2401.
Sudhakaran, G., P. Prathap, A. Guru, et al. 2022b. “Anti‐Inflammatory Role Demonstrated Both in Vitro and in Vivo Models Using Nonsteroidal Tetranortriterpenoid, Nimbin (N1) and Its Analogs (N2 and N3) That Alleviate the Domestication of Alternative Medicine.” Cell Biology International 46, no. 5: 771–791.
Sunday, G. A., K. B. Dikwa, A. I. Alhaji, P. A. Vantsawa, C. T. Nwankwo, and M. Muhammed. 2024. “Hepatoprotective Effects of Aqueous and Methanolic Leaves Extracts of AZADIRACTA Indica Against Carbon Tetrachloride (CCL4) Induced Hepatotoxicity in Wistar Rats.” Academy Journal of Science and Engineering 18, no. 1: 100–107.
Susmitha, S., K. K. Vidyamol, P. Ranganayaki, and R. Vijayaragavan. 2013. “Phytochemical Extraction and Antimicrobial Properties of Azadirachta indica (Neem).” Global Journal of Pharmacology 7, no. 3: 316–320.
Thomas, A. B., M. Dapkekar, D. Nagore, R. Doke, N. Bankar, and N. Surve. 2024. “Herbal Emulgel Containing Azadirachta indica (Neem) and Nigella sativa L. (Black Cumin) Oils in Wound Management: Preclinical Investigations.” Ancient Science of Life 38, no. 3&4: 141–149.
Tiple, R. H., S. R. Jamane, D. S. Khobragade, and D. Khobragade. 2024. “Antifungal Activity of Neem Leaf Extract With Eucalyptus citriodora Oil and Cymbopogon martini Oil Against Tinea Capitis: An in‐Vitro Evaluation.” Cureus 16, no. 5: e59671.
Tiwari, V., N. A. Darmani, B. Y. Yue, and D. Shukla. 2010. “In Vitro Antiviral Activity of Neem (Azardirachta indica L.) Bark Extract Against Herpes Simplex Virus Type‐1 Infection.” Phytotherapy Research 24, no. 8: 1132–1140.
Udeinya, I. J., A. U. Mbah, C. P. Chijioke, and E. N. Shu. 2004. “An Anti‐Malarial Extract From Neem Leaves Is Antiretroviral.” Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 98, no. 7: 435–437.
Upadhayay, U. P., and P. C. Vigyan. 2014. “Neem (Azadirachta indica) and Its Potential for Safeguarding.” Journal of Biological Sciences 14, no. 2: 110–123.
Uzwatania, F., and R. S. Ningrum. 2020. “Formulation of Liquid Hand Soap Made From Neem Seed Oil and Lemongrass Essential Oil.” Indonesian Journal of Applied Research (IJAR) 1, no. 3: 155–162.
Uzzaman, S. 2020. “Pharmacological Activities of Neem (Azadirachta indica): A Review.” International Journal of Pharmacognosy and Life Science 1: 38–41.
Wakodkar, S., A. Shuddalwar, and D. Baheti. 2021. “Herbal Potentials for Treatment of Peptic Ulcers: A Review.” International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research 68: 124–131.
Wasim, A., H. Bushra, R. Rakhi, and V. Ashish. 2023. “Comprehensive Review of the Neem Plant's Attributes and Applications.” International Journal of Research Development and Technology 1, no. 1. https://ijrdt.com/index.php/files/article/view/83.
Wijanarko, S. B., and M. Rifa'i. 2020. “Chemical Characteristic and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extract Neem Leaves (Azadirachta indica Juss).” EurAsian Journal of BioSciences 14, no. 2: 7881–7887.
Wylie, M. R., and D. S. Merrell. 2022. “The Antimicrobial Potential of the Neem Tree Azadirachta indica.” Frontiers in Pharmacology 13: 891535.
Zeng, G., Z. Wu, W. Cao, Y. Wang, X. Deng, and Y. Zhou. 2020. “Identification of Anti‐ From the PollenNociceptive Constituents of Typha angustifolia L. Using Effect‐Directed Fractionation.” Natural Product Research 34, no. 7: 1041–1045. https://doi.org/10.1080/14786419.2018.1539979.
© 2025. This work is published under http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ (the "License"). Notwithstanding the ProQuest Terms and Conditions, you may use this content in accordance with the terms of the License.