Azadirachta indica –Neem-A natural gift for prevention and treatment of chronic diseases- A review

Abstract

Neem plant (Azadirachta indica L.) was known since ancient times, one of the most significant medicinal herbs in the world. Every part of the plant viz., leaves, bark, stem, wood, seed are utilized for treatment and prevention of a large number of human diseases. It is due to containing more than 300 phytochemicals of which azadirachtin is the most prevalent. For avoidance and treatment of different human chronic illnesses neem is used in Indian subcontinent and worldwide in the ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani medical systems and recently specially for treatment of Covid related system of diseases. This article summarized the importance, health benefits, biological role, major phytochemicals present in different plant parts and their molecular action in curing diseases and cultivation tips of neem tree.