NIM (Azadirachta indica): An APPROACH ON USE AS A NATURAL INSECTICIDE

Abstract

Azadirachta indica, popularly known as neem or margosa, belongs to the Meliaceae family, having insecticidal and pesticidal properties, and other studies prove its efficacy as an antifungal, anti-inflammatory, cicatrizing, and antiviral agent, among other activities. The study for the development of phytotherapics is on the rise due to several factors, such as bacterial resistance to antibiotics commonly used by their indiscriminate use, the possible adverse reactions caused by them, and the presence of infinity of active compounds that have desirable pharmacological activity in certain plants. The literature search was conducted to identify articles published between the years 2001 and 2021, on the use of Neem (Azadirachta indica) as a natural insecticide and in pest control, and on the phytochemistry of Neem. As found in this review, the Neem plant (Azadirachta indica) has become important for medicinal, agricultural, and livestock use, and has been used for centuries by the Indian people and in some decades by the Western world. The plant is also important for the environment, bringing benefits such as combating desertification and deforestation, showing a high rate of photosynthesis, releasing plenty of oxygen.