Neem (Azadirachta Indica): A Comprehensive Re...

Neem (Azadirachta Indica): A Comprehensive Review of Its Medicinal and Economic Significance

Author Name : Md. Shamim Ahmad, Hardeep Kaur, Pratibha Sharma, Md. Tanvir, Tarun Kumar, Shubham Prasad, Abu Sufiyan Ansari, Aasim Raza

Neem (Azadirachta indica), a member of the Meliaceae family, is well-known for its wide range of therapeutic benefits due to its abundance of bioactive chemicals such as nimbin, nimbidin, nimbolide, and other flavonoids. This plant has substantial antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, which contribute to its promise in illness management. The molecular processes behind these effects entail the modification of genetic pathways related to apoptosis, angiogenesis, and oncogene activity, establishing neem as a promising drug in cancer therapy. Neem extracts have been shown in studies to activate tumour suppressor genes while suppressing pro-inflammatory enzyme activity, hence regulating cancer formation. Notably, the ethanolic fraction of neem leaf possesses antiangiogenic properties via inhibiting proangiogenic gene expression. Neem's complex phytochemical profile, including triterpenoids, alkaloids, and phenolic chemicals, supports its use in traditional medicine for a variety of illnesses, including infections and inflammatory disorders. Furthermore, neem's use in agriculture and industry, as a bio-pesticide, and in cosmetic formulations, highlights its economic importance. This review highlights neem's numerous medicinal benefits, urging for its ongoing investigation and use in both traditional and modern healthcare practices.