Therapeutic Applications of Neem (Azadirachta indica): A Narrative Review

It is no surprise that nature has provided us with many therapeutic compounds for thousands of years. Throughout history, plants and their derivatives have been used orally and locally to treat most of the diseases. In addition to providing a wealth of health benefits, Azadirachta indica stands out among all of them as one of the most universal and prolific trees. Since antiquity, this medicinal plant has been used in the Unani System of Medicine as well as in other traditional systems of medicine (Ayurveda, Homeopathic, Chinese, and European "Materia Medica") to treat a wide range of diseases. Almost every part of the tree can be used as medicine, including its leaves, flowers, seeds, fruits, roots, and bark, both locally and systemically after being properly processed in pharmaceutical industries. Apart from treating various skin ailments like dermatitis, eczema, acne, and fungal and bacterial infections, it also exhibits anti-malarial, anticancer, antifertility, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and wound healing properties. In modern times, it is also used in cosmetics, toiletries, and pharmaceutical products. The purpose of this review is to gather all the information available about Azadirachta indica, including its distribution, botanical description, commercial use, and medicinal properties.