Abstract

ETHNOBOTANICAL USES, PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES AND PHYTOCHEMISTRY OF MELIA AZEDARACH LINN: A REVIEW

Shabnam Gondwal* and Dr. A. C. Rana

ABSTRACT

Introduction: Melia azedarach Linn. is one of the plant that is known for its medicinal properties. This plant is commonly known with different names such as mahanimb, bakain, derk, Persian lilac, china berry etc. This plant is very similar to neem and belonging to the family Meliaceae. Aim: The aim of this study to review the ethnobotanical uses, pharmacological properties, and phytochemistry of plant Melia azedarach linn. Methodology: This present study was based on the review of different previous scientific studies available on different internet sources. Result: On the basis of detailed survey of literature related to plant Melia azedarach it can be found that this plant possess different ethnobotanical and pharmacological properties and also possess a number of phytochemicals, and some of these phytochemicals are responsible for different pharmacological properties.In this literature survey it can also found that some parts of this plant such as seed ,fruit and bark are toxic for humans and animals when they are not taken in a appropriate dose. Conclusion: A number of phytochemical and pharmacological studies was carried on plant Meila azedarach proves that this plant consist some active phytochemicals that are responsible for different pharmacological properties of plant. Also this plant possesses some toxic effect at higher doses.

Keywords: Melia azedarach, phytochemicals, traditional use, pharmacological activities.