NEEM (AZADIRACHTA INDICA) AS A MEDICINAL PLANT: PHARMACOLOGICAL INSIGHTS AND THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a well-known medicinal plant that has been widely used in traditional medicine for centuries. In recent years, extensive pharmacological studies have been conducted to scientifically validate its therapeutic potential. Various parts of the neem plant, including leaves, bark, seeds, and oil, contain bioactive compounds such as azadirachtin, nimbidin, nimbolide, and flavonoids, which contribute to its diverse biological activities. Experimental and preclinical studies have demonstrated that neem exhibits significant antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, gastroprotective, and anticancer properties. These pharmacological effects are primarily mediated through mechanisms involving inhibition of inflammatory mediators, modulation of immune responses, regulation of oxidative stress, and induction of apoptosis in abnormal cells. The present review summarizes and highlights the major pharmacological activities of Azadirachta indica, emphasizing its potential as a natural source for the development of safe and effective therapeutic agents.