Abstract

AN OVERVIEW ON NIMBA (AZADIRACHTA INDICA LINN.) WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO AYURVEDIC AND MODERN ASPECT

Dr. R. I. Pathan*, Dr. T. A. Pansare and Dr. Meghala Kambale

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Abstract

Azadirachta indica Linn. commonly known as Nimba, has attracted worldwide prominence in recent years, owing its wide range of medicinal properties. Various properties of A.indica, described in ancient text of Ayurveda like Krumighna(worm), Vishghna(antidote), Aruchi nashak(anorexia), Kushthghna(skin disease), Pramehaghna(diabetes), Gulmahar etc., are acquiring scientific validity through modern research adopting “reverse pharmacological” approach. A.indica elaborates a vast array of biologically active compounds that are chemically diverced and structurally complex. Potential medicinal properties reported by scientific research include anticancerous, Antidiabetic, Antiviral, Antiinflametory properties. Various effects like Antispasmodic, Antipyretic, Antimicrobial, Hepatoprotective, Antiparacytic, Gastro Protective have also been studied. This review brings together various properties and medicinal uses of A. indica described in Ayurveda, along with pharmacological reports.

Keywords: Nimb, Azadirachta indica Linn., Phytochemistry, Pharmacological actions.