Melia Azedarach L: A Plant With A Wide Range Of Phytopharmacological Properties

Melia azedarach L, also known as Chinaberry tree, is a Southeast Asian plant with anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, and insecticidal properties. It contains bioactive compounds like flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and saponins. Recent studies have shown that extracts from Melia azedarach L have anticancer properties and antimicrobial activity against various pathogens. Melia azedarach Linn, also known as mahanimba, is a large evergreen tree found throughout India, used for its anthelmintic, antilithic diuretic, emmenagogue, astringent, and stomachic properties. It is highly nutritious and used in various industries, including agriculture, furniture, plywood, and fuel wood. The plant's leaves contain various terpenoids and limonoids, including l-Cinnamoyl 3-acetyl-11-hydroxy Meliacarpin, Deacetylsalannin, 1,3-dicinnamoyl-l1-hydroxyrneliacarpin, β-Pinene, α-Terpinene, Kaempferol-3-O-β-rutinoside, and Rutin, along with acids like palmitic acid and hexadecanoic acid. Fruits contain various terpenoids and limonoids, while stems contain terpenoids and limonoids, flavonoids, linoleic acid, and oleic acid. The root bark contains various terpenoids and limuloids, while the roots contain flavonoids, steroids, and acids like Trans-cinnamic acid and Vanillic acid. This article discusses the ethnomedicinal description, phytochemistry, pharmacological action, and therapeutic use of Melia azedarach. The herb has various health benefits, including anti-ulcer, antipyretic, anti-fertility, anti-cancer, antiviral, wound healing, and hepatoprotective properties. It contains active substances like terpenoids, flavonoids, steroids, acids, anthraquinones, alkaloids, saponins, and tannins. The article suggests that research is needed to purify M. azedarach components and characterize their potential chemical makeup and mode of action, as these ingredients may be beneficial and less hazardous than current medications.