Recent developments in Neem (Azadirachta indica – A. Juss) derived antimicrobial constituents for control of human and plant diseases – a review

Abstract

Neem has immense biocontrol potential against a large number of pathogens causing various diseases in human beings and plants. The plant has maximum useful value in its leaves, bark, flowers and fruits than any other tree species. These values include antiallergic, antidermatic, antifeedent, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Due to the vast activities of neem, it has become extremely valuable in making our ecosystem a green treasure. Neem leaves have been demonstrated to exhibit immuno-modulatory, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer, antimalarial properties. Neem tree plant parts contain a promising pest control substance which has found effective use against economically important agricultural pests. Neem plant products are easy to process by village level industries on the micro scale level and use by resource poor farmers in crop protection resulting thereby in income generation. This plant also has antioxidant properties and free radical scavenging potential in its different extracted solvents. The present review highlights the properties of neem against the pathogens of living organisms for environmental protection