Neem—Azadirachta indica
Neem trees are widely grown in the Indian Subcontinent and surrounding regions of Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. This plant is a member of the Meliaceae family. Neem has been known for its medicinal properties and has been used as an important ingredient in Ayurveda, Unani, Homeopathy, and modern Medicine. Neem also has many cosmetic and agricultural applications. In this section we will look into the properties of this medicinal plant.
Active ingredients:
The active agents of Neem include azadirachtin, nimbin, nimbidin, limonoids, nimbolide, Quercetin, Beta- sitosterol, and other polyphenolic flavonoids that contribute to the different actions of this plant. Oils and powders are extracted from the plant and used in various applications.
Some of the properties of the Neem plant—
Antioxidant effects: Azadirachtin has been shown to have free radical scavenging activities along with nimbolide, thus pointing to the antioxidant effects of this plant.
Anticancer effects: Neem shows promise in its anticancer actions by modulating the expression of molecular pathways that alter cancer suppressor genes, angiogenesis, transcription factors, and apoptosis (cell death).
Anti-inflammatory effects: Neem may decrease inflammation via its modulation of proinflammatory enzyme pathways, like the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase mechanisms.
Other effects—Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Antiviral effects: Neem extracts have been effective against bacterial agents in gingival disease and fungal and viral causes of disease. Neem may play a role as an immune modulator as well. It has also been used for its antipyretic or fever reducing properties. All these actions need to be investigated further via clinical studies and this plant should not be used as an alternative to conventional medications prescribed by your healthcare provider.
From the above discussion we have reviewed the far-reaching properties of this medicinal plant. We see that we have been given a wide range of medicinal plants that can contribute to our wellbeing. I believe that we need to protect these resources and strive to live long and strong!
