By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 20, 2024
10 Medicinal Constituents Of Azadirachta Indica (Neem)
Azadirachta indica has active constituents such as nimbin, nimbinin, and salannin.
These compounds possess antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties, making neem an effective treatment for various skin and hair infections. Its medicinal properties can improve people's lives by providing relief from itching and inflammation, promoting healthy digestion, and even helping to manage diabetes and cancer.
Regular use of neem products can lead to better overall health and well-being.
This article explains in details the 10 best active constituents of Azadirachta indica.
1. Azadirachtin
Azadirachta indica azadirachtin is a bioactive molecule isolated from the seeds of the tree.
It is a potent natural pesticide and insecticide that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and agriculture. Azadirachtin has been shown to be effective against a wide range of pests, including mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects, making it an attractive alternative to chemical pesticides.
Its unique properties also make it a potential ingredient in personal care products.
2. Limonoids
Azadirachta indica limonoids is a class of bioactive compounds found in its seeds and bark.
These complex molecules have been shown to exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including insecticidal, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Limonoids from Azadirachta indica have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and their potential as natural pesticides, cancer therapeutics, and antimicrobial agents has been extensively studied.
3. Beta-sitosterol
Azadirachta indica beta-sitosterol is a phytosterol compound extracted from the seeds of the plant.
It is a natural and biodegradable agent with various biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties.
Beta-sitosterol has been shown to have therapeutic potential in the prevention and treatment of several diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, cancer, and inflammatory conditions, making it a promising compound for future research and development.
4. Quercetin
Azadirachta indica quercetin is a flavonoid compound isolated from the seeds of the plant.
It has been shown to possess numerous biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Quercetin has been found to inhibit the growth of various tumor cells and has been studied for its potential use in the treatment of cancer and other diseases.
5. Kaempferol
Azadirachta indica kaempferol is a bioactive flavonoid compound found in high concentrations in the leaves of the Neem tree.
Kaempferol has been extensively studied for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, exhibiting significant inhibitory effects on pro-inflammatory enzymes and oxidative stress.
Its pharmacological activities include antimicrobial, antiviral, and anticancer properties, making it a promising natural compound with potential therapeutic applications in various diseases.
6. Ursolic acid
Azadirachta indica ursolic acid is a triterpenoid compound extracted from its bark.
This bioactive compound exhibits a range of pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. It has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells, induce apoptosis, and exhibit antimicrobial activity against various pathogens.
Its potential therapeutic applications are being explored for the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disorders.
7. Oleanolic acid
Azadirachta indica oleanolic acid is a triterpenoid compound that is extracted from the seeds of the Indian neem tree.
It has been found to possess a range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
Oleanolic acid has also been shown to exhibit significant cytotoxicity against various types of cancer cells, making it a promising candidate for the development of novel chemotherapeutic agents.
8. Lupeol
Azadirachta indica lupeol is a type of triterpene compound found in the seeds and leaves of the plant.
It has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.
Lupeol has also been shown to have antioxidant activity, making it a potential agent for protecting against chronic diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
9. Azadiradione
Azadirachta indica azadiradione is a bioactive compound extracted from the seeds of the neem tree.
It has been extensively studied for its diverse biological and pharmacological activities, including antiparasitic, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
Azadiradione has also shown potential as an insecticide, pest repellent, and antioxidant, making it a valuable natural product with various applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry.
10. 3-tigloyl azadiradione
Azadirachta indica 3-tigloyl azadiradione is a bioactive compound isolated from the seeds of Azadirachta indica tree.
It is a derivative of azadiradione, a triterpenoid molecule found in the plant's seeds and leaves.
3-Tigloyl azadiradione has been shown to exhibit significant insecticidal and antifungal activities, making it a potential lead compound for the development of sustainable pest control methods and agricultural practices.