From Traditional Remedy to Modern Medicine: A Review of Antimicrobial and Therapeutic Promise of Neem Tree (Azadirachta indica)

Abstract

Azadirachta indica (Neem) has been revered in traditional medicine systems across Asia and Africa for centuries due to its wide-ranging therapeutic properties. In recent years, extensive scientific studies have confirmed its potent antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. This review aims to consolidate the ethnomedicinal knowledge, phytochemical composition, pharmacological activities, mechanisms of action, and the potential clinical relevance of A. indica in modern therapeutic development. An extensive review of published literature was conducted, covering studies on the phytochemical constituents, antimicrobial activities, pharmacological applications, computational docking analyses, and current challenges associated with the medicinal use of neem. Neem is rich in bioactive compounds such as limonoids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids, which contribute to its diverse pharmacological effects. Scientific studies support neem's efficacy against bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens and highlight its role in managing chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and cancer. Computational studies further validate neem's potential in drug discovery. However, variability in extraction methods, safety concerns, and a lack of rigorous clinical trials remain significant barriers to its full clinical application. Neem holds immense promise as a natural therapeutic agent. Standardized extraction methods, comprehensive toxicological assessments, and robust clinical trials are essential to translate its traditional uses into evidence-based medical practice.