ABSTRACT
The traditional medicinal system is an ancient knowledge of any indigenous community. There are numerous plant species which are being utilized for the treatment of diseases and ailments. Azadirachta indica A. Juss., also known as neem, is one of such medicinal plants. Almost all parts of the neem (leaf, twigs, bark, root, flowers, seeds and fruits) are considered to have medicinal properties, including antibacterial, antimalarial, antioxidant, antifertility, antiviral, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antidermatophytic, antihypertensive, antitumorous and many others. Neem contains important phytochemicals such as azadirachtin, nimbin, salannin, nimbolinin A, nimbolinin B, margolone, margolonone, quercetin, gallic acid, isomargolonone and other polysaccharides. As per traditional knowledge (TK) of various communities, neem has infinite uses in their daily life. TK is not confined to rural areas only but has spread to cities also. Various brands have formulated different neem-based products such as toothpaste, hair oil, soap, bathing/shower gel, hand washes, skin creams, medicinal tablets, agricultural products and others. Abundant research is going on for other uses of this important medicinal plant. Detailed information about the antidiabetic and herbal properties of neem is given in this chapter.
