Azadirachta indica: A Plant With Versatile Potential

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to present a recent update on the various uses of the indigenous plant Azadirachta indica, and to highlight its importance in various therapeutic fields in traditional as well as modern system of medicine. Design/methodology/approach: The literature review of the plant has been presented covering all the fields of research where this plant has been exploited so far. Findings: The plant possesses powerful antidermatonic and anthelmintic, insect repellent, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-septic, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer and strengthens the body’s overall immune responses. It is widely used in treating chronic malaria, bed bugs ulcer, bad teeth, syphilis, leprosy, spermicidal in preventing pregnancies and other diseases. Externally it’s the oil applied as an antiseptic for urticaria and chronic skin diseases like eczema, scabies, ring worm and maggot infested wounds. It is also used for killing lice, fleas, ticks insecticide and bacterial growth in mouth. Research limitations/implications: This tree’s beneficial values have been known for 4000 years is described by the native as the village pharmacy due to its wide spectrum of medicinal qualities. Practical implications: Over 65 patents have been derived from its various uses, which clearly indicates its practical utility in our daily lives. Social Implications: It has been traditionally used by families for curing household ailments, spermicidal in preventing pregnancies. Originality/value: The paper is an overview of various researches being carried out on the Neem.